The Minnesota Lynx locked in their playoff berth with a 90-80 win over the Indiana Fever. Star guard Caitlin Clark led the Fever with a strong performance, but it wasn't enough to overcome Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride's offensive firepower. Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve, who had previously been critical of Clark, heaped praise on her after the game, highlighting her exceptional pace and passing abilities.
The Minnesota Lynx secured their playoff spot on Saturday night with an impressive 90-80 victory over the Indiana Fever, further bolstering their position as one of the league's top teams.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark showcased her exceptional talent, leading the team with 23 points and eight assists. However, her efforts were overshadowed by Napheesa Collier's 31 points and Kayla McBride's 19 points, who played pivotal roles in sealing the victory for the Lynx.
Minnesota Lynx Clinch Playoff Spot with Victory, Cheryl Reeve Praises Caitlin Clark
Despite the outcome, all eyes were on Clark, who has garnered significant attention despite being a rookie. Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve, who recently guided Team USA to a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, surprisingly expressed admiration for Clark's abilities after the game.
"We haven't seen them a lot," Reeve said, referring to Clark and the Fever. "But what I have seen, coming into the season and watching her in college, I said, 'The single best thing that she does that young players don't do is she plays with incredible pace.'
Minnesota Lynx Clinch Playoff Spot with Victory, Cheryl Reeve Praises Caitlin Clark
"And pace can get you really far, and there's great value in that. Pace and passing are her two greatest things. I know the sexier part is probably the logo three, but the pace and the passing is what makes her exceptional in my mind."
Reeve had previously been critical of the decision to exclude Clark from the Team USA roster, and at one point admitted she wasn't particularly concerned about the effect of Clark's popularity on attendance at the Target Center.
Minnesota Lynx Clinch Playoff Spot with Victory, Cheryl Reeve Praises Caitlin Clark
However, on Saturday, Reeve had nothing but praise for Clark, jokingly expressing her desire to have both Clark and retired Lynx legend Maya Moore on her team.
The Lynx honored Moore by retiring her jersey during Saturday's game, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The Lynx are currently riding a six-game winning streak and are only three games behind the league-leading New York Liberty for the No. 1 seed. The top eight teams in the league qualify for the playoffs, and the Liberty, Lynx, and Connecticut Sun have all secured their spots. Indiana is currently in seventh place.
The Lynx's victory solidifies their position as a formidable contender in the WNBA, and with their current momentum, they will be looking to make a deep playoff run this season.
