Minnesota Lynx Edges Past Toronto Tempo in High-Scoring WNBA Thriller

The Minnesota Lynx opened their 2026 campaign with a statement victory, defeating the expansion Toronto Tempo 100–93 at Target Center on July 29. The contest lived up to its billing as a high-octane showcase, with both teams trading blows in a game that featured 15 lead changes and a combined 193 points.

First Half: Tempo Makes Instant Impression

Playing in just their second regular-season game as a franchise, the Toronto Tempo came out firing. Guard Kysre Gondrezick and forward Alanna Smith provided early sparks, helping Toronto build a 48–44 halftime lead. The Tempo’s transition offense was particularly effective, scoring 14 fast-break points in the first two quarters. Minnesota, meanwhile, leaned on its veteran core of Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride to stay within striking distance.

Second Half: Lynx Adjust and Overpower

The Lynx tightened their defense after intermission, holding Toronto to just 39 percent shooting in the third quarter. Collier took over the game, scoring 12 of her game-high 28 points in the period. Minnesota’s bench also delivered a key spark: reserve guard Dorie Harrison knocked down three consecutive three-pointers early in the fourth quarter, turning a 77–75 deficit into an 84–77 lead that the Lynx never relinquished.

Key Performances

• Napheesa Collier (MIN): 28 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals – a typical all-around performance from the All-Star forward.
• Kayla McBride (MIN): 22 points, 5-of-9 from three-point range, including a dagger with 1:18 left.
• Kysre Gondrezick (TOR): 26 points, 5 assists – the Tempo guard announced her arrival on the WNBA stage.
• Alanna Smith (TOR): 18 points, 8 rebounds in a losing effort.

Turning Point

With 5:32 remaining in the fourth quarter and the score tied at 88, Minnesota’s Bridget Carleton stole a lazy cross-court pass from Tempo point guard Shyla Heal and raced for a transition layup. A foul was called on the play, and Carleton completed the three-point play. That sparked a 12–5 Lynx run to close the game, sealing the victory.

What It Means

The Lynx improve to 1–0 on the season, sending an early message that their experienced roster can still compete with the league’s rising teams. For Toronto, the loss is a promising sign: despite the final margin, the Tempo proved they can trade punches with a perennial contender. The WNBA standings page will show Minnesota at the top of the Western Conference early on, while Toronto will look to bounce back in their next matchup against the Chicago Sky.

Attendance at Target Center was announced at 10,241, a strong showing for a season opener. The Lynx next host the Las Vegas Aces on July 31 in what promises to be another marquee matchup.