Lynx top Valkyries 77-66, Miles exits injured

Olivia Miles, the Lynx rookie guard, had 20 points and seven assists before leaving with a left ankle injury in the fourth quarter as Minnesota held off the Golden State Valkyries 77-66. Fellow Lynx guard Kayla McBride added 20 points, and Napheesa Collier had 18 points and eight rebounds to help the league-leading Minnesota win the matchup of top teams. Miles’ injury occurred after stepping on a teammate’s foot, and she did not return, though she later stood with the bench as the Lynx extended their win streak and strengthened their dominance in the Western Conference. The Valkyries, who had clawed back to within seven in the fourth, were hurt by cold shooting and defensive lapses late, with Veronica Burton contributing 14 points and seven assists. Minnesota’s victory improves their record to 30-7, while Golden State’s season has included a notable playoff clinching run for the Valkyries, and the teams will carry momentum into postseason play. Miles’ injury update and the Lynx’s tightening defense have become focal points as the team navigates the final stretch of the season.