The Lynx were led by Natisha Hiedeman, who came off the bench to score 22 points. Courtney Williams scored 14 points, Alanna Smith 13 and Napheesa Collier — who suffered an ankle injury in that previous game in Las Vegas that sidelined her seven games — added 12 for the Lynx.
“We can’t just rely on our offense,” Hiedeman said. “We just didn’t play defense. It’s hard to win games like that.”
The Aces, who led 47-44 at halftime, opened a 63-55 lead midway through the third quarter. The Lynx, sparked by Hiedeman’s seven consecutive points, pulled within 63-62 with 2½ minutes left in the quarter. They had a chance to take the lead, but Jessica Shepard missed two free throws.
The Aces (27-14) got a three-pointer from Young and a buzzer-beating layup from Chelsea Gray in the final minute of the quarter to take a 70-66 lead into the final period.