The Minnesota Lynx didn\u2019t just win another game Saturday night, they made history.<\/p>\n
Minnesota hits 31 wins, sets franchise record<\/p>\n
With a 94-70 blowout over the Connecticut Sun, the Lynx clinched home-court advantage throughout the playoffs while setting a new franchise record with their 31st win of the season.<\/p>\n
Lynx crush Sun to lock up home court for WNBA playoffs<\/p>\n
Five players scored in double figures, led by Alanna Smith and DiJonai Carrington with 18 apiece. Napheesa Collier, who remains in the thick of the MVP race, added 17 points and nine boards.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe games are tough no matter where you play,\u201d Smith said. \u201cSo having that edge at home, feeling that energy from our fans, it means everything.\u201d<\/p>\n
Why it matters<\/p>\n
Minnesota lost last year\u2019s Finals to New York, a series decided in a Game 5 on the Liberty\u2019s home floor. Now, with the Finals expanding to a best-of-seven format, the Lynx know every decisive matchup will run through their building.<\/p>\n
Cheryl Reeve, who has guided Minnesota since 2010 and already owns four WNBA titles, didn\u2019t hide what this milestone means. \u201cIf we win our home games, we win a championship,\u201d she said. \u201cThat was a goal, and this group went out and got it done.\u201d<\/p>\n
Historic pace<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s expanded 44-game schedule didn\u2019t slow Minnesota down. The Lynx reached 31 wins in 39 games, surpassing last year\u2019s 30-win mark. Their current 79.5% winning percentage is tracking with the best seasons in franchise history, right up there with their 2016 powerhouse team.<\/p>\n
And they\u2019re not done yet. Four of the five games left come against playoff-caliber opponents, including a showdown in Las Vegas against an Aces team riding a 12-game win streak. That game also doubles as the latest MVP showcase between Collier and A\u2019ja Wilson.<\/p>\n