Lynx forward Napheesa Collier breaks Diana Taurasi’s postseason scoring record, while showing appreciation for her fans before Game 3.

Minnesota Lynx's Napheesa Collier Surpasses Taurasi's Record After...

Minnesota Lynx’s Napheesa Collier Surpasses Taurasi’s Record After Engaging with Fans Before WNBA Finals Game 3.

As anticipation for Game 3 of the WNBA Finals soared, fans gathered to witness a showdown between the Minnesota Lynx and the New York Liberty. But it wasn’t just the action on the court that captured attention. Napheesa Collier, one of the league’s rising stars, stole the spotlight before the game by spending significant time signing autographs for fans. Her gesture of connecting with supporters ahead of such a critical game showcased her appreciation for the fanbase and added a personal touch to the intense atmosphere surrounding the WNBA Finals.

Collier’s dedication to her fans wasn’t just a pre-game activity; it was a reflection of her character and leadership. As the Minnesota Lynx faced off against the New York Liberty in a pivotal Finals matchup, the star forward balanced the pressures of the championship with her commitment to her loyal supporters. Fans, some of whom traveled from across the country to see their team, were treated to an unforgettable experience as Collier signed autographs non-stop.

Napheesa Collier delights fans by signing autographs non-stop before WNBA Finals Game 3Nacho García

On the court, the stakes were high, and the WNBA Finals Game 3 did not disappoint. But in addition to the intense competition, history was being made. Napheesa Collier entered the game with 227 points in the postseason, on the cusp of breaking a long-standing WNBA recordPhoenix Mercury legend Diana Taurasi had held the record for most points in a single postseason since 2009, with 245 points. Collier needed just 19 points to surpass Taurasi’s record.

By the end of the game, Collier not only broke Taurasi’s 15-year-old record, but she also accomplished it in just 10 games, one less than Taurasi’s 11-game run. Collier’s 22-point performance pushed her postseason total to 249 points, making her the new WNBA single-season playoff points leader.

Sabrina Ionescu’s game-winning shot overshadows Napheesa Collier’s Record-Breaking Night

However, the record-breaking night wasn’t enough to secure a win for the Lynx. The New York Liberty, led by Sabrina Ionescu, delivered a crushing blow in the final minutes of the game. Ionescu’s three-pointer sealed an 88-77 victory for the Liberty, forcing a Game 4 in the Finals.

Despite the loss, Collier’s achievement stands out as a highlight of the postseason. Breaking Taurasi’s record places her among the WNBA’s elite, cementing her legacy in the sport. The night may have ended in disappointment for the Lynx, but Collier’s individual performance and connection with the fans made it unforgettable.

Collier’s non-stop autograph session before the game also underscored her role as a leader both on and off the court. While the Finals are far from over, Collier’s ability to balance fan interaction with making history proves why she’s one of the most respected players in the league.

As the WNBA Finals continue, the focus will shift to Game 4, where the Lynx will look to bounce back and even the series. But for now, Napheesa Collier’s record-breaking night and her dedication to fans before Game 3 remain one of the most memorable moments of this year’s postseason.