Hiedeman’s Game-Winning Three Keeps Lynx Undefeated

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On Friday night in Phoenix, Natisha Hiedeman made a clutch three-point shot with just 5.1 seconds remaining to lead the Minnesota Lynx to a thrilling 74-71 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. The win improved Minnesota's record to 6-0 to start the 2025 WNBA season, despite missing star forward Napheesa Collier due to a knee injury. Minnesota had trailed for most of the fourth quarter and found themselves down 71-68 with one minute remaining. Courtney Williams tied the game with a three-pointer before Hiedeman’s decisive shot gave the Lynx the lead. After a Phoenix timeout, Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb missed a deep three-point attempt that would have tied the game. Kayla McBride led all Lynx scorers with 20 points, including a perfect 7-for-7 performance from the free-throw line in the first quarter. Alanna Smith contributed 19 points, while Williams finished with 11 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Despite Collier’s absence—who has been averaging 26.8 points per game—the Lynx showed strong resilience and depth.

On the other side, Satou Sabally led the Mercury with a double-double of 26 points and 11 rebounds. Kalani Brown added 15 points, and Whitcomb contributed 13. The Mercury held the lead for much of the second half and had a seven-point advantage late in the third quarter, but ultimately could not hold off Minnesota’s late surge. This win marks a significant statement for the Lynx, who remain the only undefeated team in the league. If they continue to win in the absence of their star player, Minnesota could establish themselves as the early favorite for the WNBA championship.