Lynx vs. Stars Round 1, Game 1 final score: Minnesota breathes a sigh of relief after 88-84 win

As expected, the Minnesota Lynx won Game 1 of their first round series against the San Antonio Stars. The way they did it, was probably a surprise.

Becky Hammon scored 12 of her 17 points in the fourth quarter, and helped San Antonio turn around a 70-55 deficit into a 73-72 lead with 4:12 left. But Maya Moore scored the go-ahead layup, and Seimone Augustus scored 6 of her 16 points in the last 2:11 on 3-of-4 from the field, ultimately giving the Lynx the win.

If there is one area which could explain why the Stars lost this game, it was assists. The Stars only dished 15 assists on 35 made baskets. The Lynx on the other hand had 27 assists on 36 made baskets. 11 of those assists came from Lindsay Whalen, including this work of art:

Even in the fourth quarter, only five of the team's 13 field goals came from an assist, all by Danielle Robinson. That needs to be rectified, or Game 2 can very easily be a blowout from start to finish.

Having said that, the Stars should still feel confident heading into Game 2 Saturday. They made a valiant comeback and shot over 50% for the game. But the Lynx will make adjustments themselves. I don't expect them to give up a big fourth quarter lead like that again.