Connecticut Sun Lose Late to Minnesota Lynx, 76-70

Marina Mabrey (No. 3) of the Connecticut Sun nearly led her team to victory over the Minnesota Lynx. (Photo: Ellen Schmidt | Getty Images)

MINNEAPOLIS — Friday night at Target Center saw the Connecticut Sun fall on the precipice of capturing their first win of the 2025 WNBA season.

However, Connecticut came up short, dropping a hard-fought 76-70 decision to the Minnesota Lynx in a contest filled with sharp defense, tense moments and a fierce battle between two teams eager to establish their early-season identities.

After building a lead as large as 15 points in the third quarter, the Sun could not withstand Minnesota’s relentless charge. The Lynx’s 23-2 run, powered by star Napheesa Collier’s 33 points and 11 rebounds, turned the tide and extended Minnesota’s undefeated start to 4-0.

Under new head coach Rachid Meziane, Connecticut showed plenty of promise. Marina Mabrey stood out, contributing 22 points on efficient shooting, six assists and eight rebounds. Off the bench, Haley Peters made a notable impact with 12 points and six boards, highlighting her growth since her rookie season.

In the postgame press conference, Peters emphasized the importance of staying committed to their game plan despite facing one of the league’s top teams.

“We showed we can compete when we stick to what we want to do,” she said. “Minnesota is one of the best, but if we keep building and finish games stronger, we’ll be good.”

Connecticut’s defense remained tough through much of the night, especially in the first half, when they limited Minnesota’s supporting cast beyond Collier. But adjustments by the Lynx at halftime forced other players to step up. Those crucial baskets in the fourth quarter chipped away at Connecticut’s lead.

Meziane highlighted the need for more balanced scoring to secure wins.

“We have to share the scoring load,” he said. “Today, four players scored in double digits, but we need one more offensive contributor.”

Turnovers proved costly down the stretch. Connecticut committed 21 total, many at critical moments, allowing Minnesota to capitalize in transition.

Acknowledging the team’s youth, Mabrey remained optimistic about the future.

“We showed some inexperience in clutch moments, which you kind of expect early in the season,” she said. “But I’m really proud that we were there in the game this time. And we just have to get better now.”

Sanya Rivers (No. 22) made her first WNBA start for the Connecticut Sun against the Minnesota Lynx at Target Center. (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images)

The game itself was a back-and-forth battle after halftime. Mabrey’s precise shooting and aggressive drives helped Connecticut jump out early, while Peters provided timely scoring and rebounds off the bench, keeping momentum in their favor.

Peters credited her season-high performance to personal growth and fitting into the system.

“I’ve grown as a player and learned where my opportunities lie,” she said. “It’s about making good decisions and being ready when called upon.”

Mabrey praised Peters’ role and the evolving chemistry.

“Haley was our best plus-minus on the floor,” she noted.

While flashes of dominance appeared, late-game execution remains a work in progress. Turnovers and offensive miscues in crunch time gave Minnesota the edge.

Meziane sees progress but acknowledges the road ahead.

“We have to build on the positive things,” he said. “Marina found her energy and scoring abilities. So now we have to balance it and find this chemistry in offense and I hope against Atlanta in two days.”

This close loss highlights a team still finding its rhythm but capable of competing with the league’s best. Solid defense, growing trust in the roster, and an offense with scoring and distributing ability lay a strong foundation.

Ultimately, finishing games cleanly and cutting down turnovers will determine the season’s trajectory. Friday’s effort shows the Sun are far from done — they are ready to climb.

Next Sunrise

A brief, two-game road trip concludes on Sunday afternoon as the Atlanta Dream host Connecticut at 3 p.m. ET. Atlanta will conclude their three-game home stand following matchups against the Indiana Fever and Dallas Wings.

Connecticut Sun: By the Numbers

Bria Hartley of the Connecticut Sun contributed five points off the bench against the Minnesota Lynx. (Photo: Jordan Johnson | NBAE via Getty Images)

Minnesota Lynx: By the Numbers