Credit: : All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald
Credit: : All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald
Credit: : All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald
Credit: : All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald
Prep Scene
The WNBA preseason opened at the Target Center on Friday evening with the Minnesota Lynx introducing a new starting lineup without one of its most valuable players, a former metro prep star who provided significant contributions during her four years with the team.
With a starting lineup of Alana Smith, Napheesa Collier, Diamond Miller, Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedman, the Minnesota Lynx defeated the Chicago Sky 92-81.
Collins, a 6’1” forward, and Williams, a 5’8” guard, scored 17 points apiece to lead the Lynx.
Former Louisiana State University standout 6’3” forward Angel Reese and 5’6” guard Dana Evans each scored 13 points to lead the Sky.
The Lynx are moving on after the loss of fan favorite Rachel Banham, who came off the bench and sparked the team from 2020-2023. The former Lakeville High School and University of Minnesota star, who became the Big Ten’s all-time leading scorer during her career, has signed a two-year deal with the Connecticut Sun.
The 5’10” guard played the first four years of her career with the Sun, who drafted her No. 4 overall in 2016.
The Lynx’s home opener will be against the Seattle Storm Friday, May 17 at Target Center. Banham will face her former teammates twice: Thursday, May 23 in Connecticut, and Thursday, July 4 at Target Center.
All photos by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald