Takeaways: Lynx open WNBA playoffs with statement victory over Golden State

The Lynx fell behind early before overwhelming the expansion Golden State Valkyries with strong defense and bench support in a 101-72 blowout. They turned a 10-point deficit into a 47-40 halftime lead and never looked back.

There was some early adversity, as Alanna Smith picked up two quick fouls trying to defend Valkyries center Temi Fagbenle and had to sit. Courtney Williams shot herself to the bench as well. That forced Cheryl Reeve to go to her bench early.

So she went to her strength.

Jessica Shepard and Natisha Hiedeman entered the game and outscored the Valkyries bench 15-0 in the first half.

The Lynx then poured it on in the third, holding Golden State to just two field goals while taking a 79-58 lead through three quarters.

Golden State hit five of their first eight three-point attempts but missed 19 of their next 22 from behind the arc as the Lynx turned up the defensive pressure.

Nine wins are required to be crowned WNBA champion. Sunday’s win was only the first but it was achieved in convincing fashion. The Valkyries head home following a crushing defeat in their first ever postseason game.

The Lynx trailed 28-21 after the first quarter then put their foot down. Golden State scored just 12 points in the second quarter, and in the third the Valkyries had more points from the foul line than the floor. Golden State went 3-for-22 from three-point range over the final three quarters. The Valkyries missed some open looks, but the Lynx made it difficult for them after the first quarter.

Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve has 414 combined wins between the regular season and postseason, passing Mike Thibault for the most all-time in WNBA history.

Natisha Hiedeman replaced an ineffective Courtney Williams and supercharged the Lynx attack with nine points in 14 minutes in the first half. She finished with 18 points, three rebounds and four assists.