Valkyries shut down Olivia Miles, secure first-ever win over Lynx to deny Minnesota a clinch of No. 1 playoff seed

The Minnesota Lynx faced a potential playoff seed clinch on Monday night, but the Golden State Valkyries emerged victorious with an 80-66 win. This marked the first-ever victory for the Valkyries over the Lynx, who had a 9-0 record against them, including a 2-0 sweep in the playoffs last season. The Valkyries' success denied the Lynx the chance to secure the No. 1 seed, leaving their playoff hopes uncertain.

The Valkyries finished the game with 26-11 record, while the Lynx dropped to 31-8. Now, the Valkyries trail the Lynx by three games in the race for the best record in the WNBA, with seven games left to play. The Lynx will play five more regular-season games, and both teams have already secured playoff berths, potentially facing each other in the WNBA Finals if they maintain their positions.

Olivia Miles, the Lynx's sensation, struggled in the game, recording just 8 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds while committing four turnovers. The Valkyries' defense was a significant factor in their win, limiting Minnesota to 36% field goal shooting and creating numerous transition opportunities, resulting in 21 points off turnovers.

Natasha Howard and Kayla McBride were the Lynx's top performers with 13 points and 12 points respectively, but neither reached double digits. The Lynx played without All-Star guard Courtney Williams, who is day-to-day with a foot injury. The Valkyries' balanced effort, led by Cecilia Zandalasini's 18 points, Veronica Burton's 14 points, 9 assists, 4 rebounds, and 5 steals, proved too much for the Lynx.