Phoenix Mercury at Lynx
WNBA first-round best-of-three playoff series
Game 1: Lynx 102, Mercury 95
Game 2: Wednesday, 8:30 p.m., Target Center
Game 3: (if necessary) at Phoenix, time TBA
Game 2 preview
TV, radio: ESPN, 100.3-FM.
Opening bell:. The Lynx were able to win Game 1, despite losing a 23-point first-half lead, thanks to a 24-7 edge in free throws made. That made up for Phoenix hitting more field goals, shooting better than any Lynx opponent this year and hitting 14 three-pointers. The first game was an offensive display, one the Lynx closed out with an 11-3 run in the final two minutes. The Lynx are now 4-1 vs. the Mercury this season.
Watch her: Napheesa Collier's 38 points Sunday were a career high and the second most by a Lynx player in franchise history. Collier, who turned 28 Monday, made 11 of 19 shots, had six rebounds, four assists and a block. She also hit 13 of 14 free throws, tying Seimone Augustus for most made foul shots by a Lynx player in the playoffs.
Injuries: For the Mercury, G Rebecca Allen (back surgery) is out; G Charisma Osborne (left lower leg) is questionable.
Forecast: The Lynx will need to play better defense to prevent a Game 3. That starts with doing a better job on Natasha Cloud, who scored 33 points with 10 assists in Game 1.

Live from Target Field: Twins face Astros in home opener

What's next for the Vikings? NFL draft, schedule release, OTAs and more

Defending champs return for more in Minnesota high school golf

After winning WBIT title, Gophers women's basketball team looks poised to take another step next season
