Natisha Hiedeman’s WNBA Heroics Lead Lynx Past Valkyries

Natisha Hiedeman’s Career Night Lifts Lynx Over Record-Setting Valkyries.Natisha Hiedeman scored a career-high 24 points for the Minnesota Lynx on Saturday. Her performance led the team to a 78-72 road victory over the Golden State Valkyries. The game was played at a sold-out Chase Center in San Francisco.The win solidified the Lynx’s position with the league’s best record. It also spoiled a historic night for the expansion Valkyries franchise and their record-setting fans.

Golden State Valkyries Set New WNBA Attendance Record

The Valkyries drew a crowd of 18,064 for their final home game. This sellout brought their total season attendance to 397,408. According to Field Level Media, this shatters the previous record set last year.The previous record of 349,313 was held by the Indiana Fever. The new benchmark highlights the growing popularity of the WNBA. The Valkyries also became the first expansion team to clinch a playoff berth in its inaugural season.

Lynx’s 16-Point Run Secures Decisive Victory

The game turned dramatically in the third quarter. The Valkyries led by seven points with just over three minutes left. Then the Lynx unleashed a devastating 16-0 scoring run.Hiedeman was the catalyst for the comeback. She hit two three-pointers during the crucial stretch. She also drew a flagrant foul on another three-point attempt, resulting in three made free throws.Napheesa Collier contributed a three-pointer of her own. The run completely shifted the momentum. Minnesota carried a nine-point lead into the final quarter and held on for the win.Jessica Shepard posted a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds. Collier finished with 20 points. The Valkyries were led by Janelle Salaun, Iliana Rupert, and Kaila Charles, who each scored 15 points.

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The Lynx victory demonstrates their championship-caliber resilience. This matchup between the league’s best and its hottest new team provides a thrilling preview of the upcoming WNBA playoffs.

Info at your fingertips

What was the previous WNBA attendance record?

The previous single-season attendance record was 349,313. It was set by the Indiana Fever during the 2024 season. The Valkyries broke that record by over 48,000 fans.

Did the Golden State Valkyries make the playoffs?

Yes, the Valkyries have clinched a playoff spot. They are the first WNBA expansion team to make the playoffs in its inaugural season. Their final seeding is still to be determined.

How many three-pointers did Natisha Hiedeman make?

Natisha Hiedeman made six three-pointers in the game. This was a key factor in the Lynx’s comeback victory. She tied her career-high with 24 total points.

When is the next Lynx vs. Valkyries game?

The two teams will meet again on Thursday. It will be the regular-season finale for both clubs. The game will be hosted by the Minnesota Lynx.