Lynx‘s Maria Kliundikova Emerges as Key Contributor in Semifinals Victory
PHOENIX - While Courtney Williams’ 23 points and Napheesa Collier‘s near double-double lead the Minnesota Lynx to an 82-69 Game 1 win over the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA semifinals, it was the impactful play of Maria Kliundikova that ignited the locker room postgame. The 6-4 Russian centre, also known as Masha, proved to be a crucial factor down the stretch, solidifying her role as a reliable closer for the Lynx.
Kliundikova played eight minutes of the fourth quarter, during which Minnesota outscored Phoenix 23-10. Despite limited playing time earlier in the playoffs – four minutes in the frist-round sweep of Golden State and no minutes against Phoenix before Tuesday – Kliundikova delivered a performance that resonated with her teammates and coaching staff. She finished with four points, four rebounds, two steals, and a pivotal jump ball win against Mercury star Alyssa Thomas.
“Man, if you woudl have heard us in the locker room,” Williams said after the game. ”We certainly know what she can do out there.”
Head coach Cheryl Reeve called upon Kliundikova to provide rebounding support and give Collier a rest. Assistant coach Rebekkah Brunson offered simple, yet effective advice before she entered the game: “Don’t think. Just enjoy and play the game,” Kliundikova recalled. williams emphasized Kliundikova’s mental fortitude, stating, “When you’re sitting most of the game and you got to come in and make that instant impact, you just got to be mentally strong, and that’s exactly what she is.”
