For 3rd time in 5 years, Lynx honored by Obama
The Minnesota Lynx will try to resume their winning ways Wednesday night when they take on the New York Liberty at Target Center. The Lynx started off the 2016 WNBA season with a record-breaking 13-game winning streak. That ended with a loss Friday.
But the team is still celebrating. On Monday, President Obama once again welcomed the team to the White House, where he honored the Lynx for their league championship victory last fall.
That victory was their third in five years. But unlike the team's routs in three games of the Atlanta Dream in 2011 and 2013, the Lynx had to work a lot harder last year. The championship series against the Indiana Fever went to a full five games.
With Coach Cheryl Reeve at his side in the East Room, Obama noted that Game 5 got off to a bleak start for star players Lindsay Whalen and Maya Moore.
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"Lindsay sprained her ankle. Maya was trying to find her rhythm. But in the second half, the Lynx started to gain some steam. Seimone finished with 16 points. Sylvia Fowles had 20. They pulled away and won the championship by 17 points."
Obama also noted that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the WNBA. He credited founding players for inspiring the current crop. And the president said the Lynx's support of breast health awareness and the Twin Cities Boys and Girls Club makes them champions off the court as well.
"Today, these women, and women across the WNBA, are setting their own outstanding example for girls who are growing up today. And they're aware of the responsibilities that come with that. As Maya says, 'We're not super rich like the guys ... but money's not everything when you're talking about dynasties and legacies, and inspiring young women and men, and opening people's minds,' " he said. "Although, money is useful, too. And I am for equal pay for equal work."
This was the Lynx's third visit to the White House, something Whalen pointed out just before presenting Obama with a team jersey.
"The invitation definitely stands for you to come to our house," she said.
Monday's White House visit was also at least the sixth for Moore. She's been there after each of the Lynx championships, as well as with the 2012 U.S. Olympic team and two University of Connecticut national championship squads.