Smith breaks Lynx blocks record with 10 games left

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Australian WNBA forward Alanna Smith has etched her name into the Minnesota Lynx record books, setting a new franchise record for blocks in a single season.

Smith, 28, had two blocks in the 85-75 loss to the New York Liberty on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 (AEST), lifting her season total to 69 and surpassing the previous mark of 68 set by Vanessa Hayden in 2005.

Smith finished with five points, nine rebounds, two assists, three steals and two blocks in 32 minutes.

Remarkably, Smith has achieved single-season blocks record with 10 games still left in the Lynx season.

Smith is averaging 2.1 blocks per game, tying her with Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson for the league lead. Fellow Opal and Seattle Storm centre Ezi Magbegor sits just behind the pair with 2.0 blocks per game, highlighting the strong defensive impact of Australian talent in the WNBA.

The Lynx, who sit atop the WNBA standings with a 28–6 record, have been one of the standout teams of the 2025 season.

Smith’s rim protection has been a critical part of their defensive strength, giving Minnesota a commanding presence in the paint as they look to mount a deep playoff run.

Key Details

• Result: New York Liberty 85 def. Minnesota Lynx 75
• When: 20th of August, 2025
• Where: Barclays Center, New York
• Standings: Minnesota Lynx (#1) | New York Liberty (#2) (Standings)

By the Numbers

• Jonquel Jones (New York Liberty) starred with 22 points, 10 rebounds, one assist, and one steal in 30 minutes.
• Courtney Williams (Minnesota Lynx) scored 17 points, and had five rebounds, two assists, and two steals in 32 minutes.

What Happened

The Liberty established control early, leading 48-37 at halftime after outscoring the Lynx 24-20 in the first quarter and extending their advantage with a 24-17 second period. Minnesota attempted to rally in the third quarter, winning the period 23-18, but New York maintained their composure in the final frame, outscoring the visitors 19-15 to secure the 10-point victory.

Sabrina Ionescu orchestrated the Liberty offense with precision, recording a game-high 11 assists while adding 17 points on 4-from-10 shooting from beyond the arc. Her ability to create for teammates while stretching the defense proved crucial to New York's success throughout the contest.

Emma Meesseman contributed a stellar all-around performance for New York with 13 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two steals, and one block. Her 6-from-8 shooting efficiency complemented the Liberty's balanced attack that saw five players score in double figures.

For Minnesota, Jaylyn Sherrod added 11 points off the bench on 3-from-9 shooting, while DiJonai Carrington contributed 16 points on an efficient 6-from-10 from the field. Despite these contributions, the Lynx struggled to match New York's offensive firepower.

The Liberty's three-point shooting was the difference-maker in this contest. New York connected on 13-from-32 attempts from beyond the arc (40.6%), while Minnesota managed just 6-from-22 (27.3%). The home side also displayed superior ball movement, recording 23 assists compared to the Lynx's 10.

Defensively, Alanna Smith tried to keep Minnesota competitive with three steals and two blocks, but the Lynx couldn't overcome their shooting struggles. The Liberty controlled the glass with a 37-33 rebounding advantage, including eight offensive boards that led to crucial second-chance opportunities.

Despite the loss, Minnesota (28-6) remains atop the WNBA standings, while New York (22-13) strengthened their position in second place. This statement win against the league's best team gives the Liberty momentum as both teams approach the playoffs.