WNBA Finals What we learned in game 1?

It was a day of celebration as the WNBA recognized it's WNBA Top 20  legends at halftime of game 1 of the WNBA Finals and both teams put on a show for the WNBA pioneers in attendance. Alana Beard hit the game winner at the buzzer as Sparks defeated Lynx 78-76 in Game 1 of the 2016 WNBA FInals. The same Alana Beard that didn't look comfortable on offense the entire game drained a 3 from the corner as her teammates corraled her afterwards in jubilation. The Los Angeles Sparks with early and late foul trouble managed to stay the course and apply the great defensive pressure they have played all season to stop the Minnesota Lynx at home. Maya Moore and Seimone Augustus were never really comfortable offensively and Minnesota Lynx Coach Reeves even thought the Sparks defensive pressure deserved a lot of credit." Game 1 taught us that the Los Angeles Sparks Brian Agler has bought a championship defensive mentality  to LA and the Lynx are going to have to find a way to break free if they will win number 4.

Fowles was dominant in the paint for the Lynx 18 points and 13 rebounds.
Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

The Lynx had offensive struggles in game 1 but the Sparks had no answer for Sylvia Fowles who dominated inside with 18 points and 13 rebounds.  Lindsay Whalen carried the Lynx offensively in the first half and finished the game with 18 points. Maya Moore was scoreless in the first half but managed to finish with 18 points despite being draped on defense by Alana Beard.  Game 1 taught us that Seimone is going to have to elevate her game when Maya isn't  hitting shots. Augustus finishing with 6 points won't be enough  against the stingy defense from the Sparks.  Coach Reeves on the lost  "The Sparks came in here and beat us. We made bad plays that cost us cutting, moving and turning the ball over and the Sparks led by Beard's defense deserves a lot of credit. " The Lynx may have added fuel to the Sparks fire  by losing game 1 at home. 

Alana Beard Cool, Calm and Collective as she knocks down the 3 from the corner on the buzzer to win Game 1 of the WNBA Finals.
Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

With Chelsea Gray running the pt guard position Kristi Toliver was able to give her team a burst of energy on the offensive end hitting big buckets to keep the Sparks close. She finished with 19 points  and joined three other players in double figures. Chelsea Gray had 12 points, Candace Parker had 14 points and WNBA MVP Nneke Ogwumike finished with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Nneke Ogwumike would have been more impressive had she not been in foul trouble most of the game. When she was on the court the MVP would not be denied inside or outside and was in relentless pursuit  of every rebound. Game 1 taught us that she is fearless and as the Sparks had no answer for Fowles, the Lynx have no answer for Ogwumike.  Ogwumike undersized in the paint plays with a determination that I haven't seen from an undersized post player for a very long time. We also learned that Chelsea Gray at the  point guard position for the Sparks adds and important element that many didn't anticipate. She was remarkable and  effective running the show in the half court and in transition for the Sparks.  Coach Brian Agler said after the game, " How disruptive we can be on defense got big stops down the stretch. We have to guard against softening up playing against a worthy opponent who will be real hungry on Tuesday.
I was so hype when Alana Beard made that shot. Flashback from our playing days together. I hope she gets one. I really do.

Alana Beard finished the game with 4 points and hit what could be one of the biggest shots of her career. Alana Beard plays with the same passion, and tenacity she had when I was her teammate, despite the  many injuries, ups and downs throughout her career. It's always great to see an athlete have a moment like that who has endured so much.  So what we learned form Beard today taught us everything we need to know about the game and about life. You never give up and you never stop believing in yourself and when an opportunity presents itself you have to take the shot.  She's one of the hardest working players that I've ever played with.  Today her preparation met opportunity and as my late mentor, coach and friend Kay Yow taught me that's what luck is my friend. Thanks for reading. Next game Tuesday 8pm on ESPN2.