The Minnesota Lynx are set to host the Indiana Fever in the 2025 WNBA Commissioner's Cup Final on Tuesday, July 1, at 8:00 PM ET. This marks the Lynx's second consecutive appearance in the Cup Final, while it's the Fever's first. The game will be streamed live on Amazon Prime Video.

Injury Report

• Minnesota Lynx: Napheesa Collier left the game against the Las Vegas Aces early with a back injury and missed the subsequent game against the Los Angeles Sparks. Her status is day-to-day, with no firm return date. However, she is expected to be available for the Commissioner's Cup Final.
• Indiana Fever: Caitlin Clark has been dealing with a left groin injury, causing her to miss the Fever's last two games. Despite the injury, Clark was seen participating in a late afternoon practice and is expected to play. Damiris Dantas is out due to reasons not related to injury and Kristy Wallace is out due to being overseas.

Starting Lineups

The starting lineups are not yet definitively confirmed, and can depend on the status of Napheesa Collier and Caitlin Clark. However, here are potential starting lineups based on recent games and typical rotations:

• Minnesota Lynx:
  • Guards: Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride
  • Forwards: Napheesa Collier (if healthy), Alanna Smith
  • Center: TBD
• Indiana Fever:
  • Guards: Caitlin Clark (if healthy), Kelsey Mitchell
  • Forwards: NaLyssa Smith, Katie Lou Samuelson
  • Center: Aliyah Boston

Predictions

The Minnesota Lynx enter the Commissioner's Cup Final as the favorites, holding the WNBA's best record at 12-1. They also have the advantage of playing at home. Napheesa Collier leads the league in scoring, averaging 24.4 points per game, along with 8.5 rebounds, 1.8 steals, and 1.5 blocks. Minnesota boasts the second-best defense in the WNBA and has a strong point differential, beating teams by an average of double digits.

However, the Indiana Fever, led by Caitlin Clark, who is averaging 19.8 points and 8.9 assists per game, present a challenge. The Fever like to play at a fast pace, which could disrupt the Lynx's slower, more controlled style. Indiana has won four of their last seven games and is playing in their first-ever Commissioner's Cup Championship game.

Several factors could influence the outcome:

• Napheesa Collier's Health: If Collier is not at full strength, it could impact Minnesota's offense and defense.
• Caitlin Clark's Performance: Clark's ability to score and distribute the ball will be crucial for the Fever.
• Pace of Play: Whether Indiana can speed up the game and force Minnesota out of their comfort zone could be a key factor.
• Defense: Minnesota's strong defense will need to contain Indiana's scoring threats.

Additional Information

The winner of the Commissioner's Cup will receive a prize pool of $500,000 and an in-season trophy. The Minnesota Lynx are partnering with the ACLU of Minnesota for the Commissioner's Cup, with the team accumulating donation dollars for the organization throughout Cup play. The Indiana Fever are supporting the Peace Learning Center, and have earned $13,000 for them through their tournament play.