Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

WNBA: Minnesota Lynx at Chicago Sky – Notes From the Office

Originally posted on Beyond Women's Sports
By Martin Ruben | Last updated Jul 13, 2025 10:53 AM ET

The Minnesota Lynx were soundly beaten by the Chicago Sky Saturday at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, in front of 9000+ fans. Even though the Lynx managed to cut down a 15 point lead by the Sky and came close to winning, they did not. Cheryl Reeve is not one to make excuses for her team, but the schedule has taken its toll. The Lynx looked tired and disconnected. Erratic shooting, poor defense, only ten turnovers, but out-rebounded by 17, 45 – 28.

Minnesota hit 10 threes, and Chicago only four, but it was the inside game by Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese, plus a team leading 27 points from Ariel Atkins and key threes from Rachel Banham that gave Chicago the large edge. Napheesa Collier scored 26, Kayla McBride 17 and Courtney Williams 13, but it is deceptive because the shooting was inconsistent. The Lynx played tired, and although their last gasp got them close, they simply could not get over the finish line.

This was Chicago’s first win over a team with an average of .500 or higher. Now, is this cause for the Lynx to worry? No. Is this game reason for Chicago to celebrate? Maybe. But Minnesota is 18 – 4 and Chicago is 7 – 13. Every win over the Sky that the Lynx get gives them a better chance with their first round pick next year as they have the Sky’s pick.

tough one. pic.twitter.com/MuL7OWVvMM
— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) July 12, 2025

With a new CBA in negotiations, no one really knows what is going to happen yet. Plus, an overwhelming number of players will be free agents, so the landscape of many teams could change drastically.

Thoughts On The Lynx And Sky

One of Minnesota’s issues is more inside presence. If, for example, Lauren Betts were available to the Lynx, would it be a wise choice? Absolutely. Would another dedicated point guard be a valuable asset? You it would. In addition, with two more teams coming into the league, the loss of two players in the expansion draft will leave some room to beef up the lineup.

Chicago is a better team than their record indicates, and they are getting better. They did turn the ball over 19 times and conceded 16 points. Minnesota conceded 10 points off of 10 turnovers. The Lynx gave up 44 points in the paints while only getting 28.

Minnesota has been playing catch-up ball for a while. This trend needs to end and very soon. These two teams go at it again on Monday. It will be interesting to see if Minnesota can get back to what has put them at the top of the league, or if Chicago has their number again.

Fortunately, in a way, it is no mystery. Go out and execute the way you’re supposed to, get more stops and get more buckets. Easy peasy, right, Minnesota Lynx? As for the Chicago Sky, just keep on keeping’ on and see if it works again.

And that, my friends, as they say, is that.’ — Martin Ruben.

This article first appeared on Beyond Women's Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: