The 2024 WNBA playoffs belong to Napheesa Collier — at least so far. The Minnesota Lynx superstar made league history in Wednesday night's 101-88 victory over the Phoenix Mercury, advancing to the semifinals to play the Connecticut Sun.

Collier scored 42 points in Wednesday night's victory, tying a WNBA playoff record. She shot 14-of-20 from the floor and converted on 12-of-14 free throw attempts. Collier, who finished second in the WNBA MVP voting, also had five rebounds, four assists, two blocks and a steal.

Collier also became just the sixth player in league history to score 40 points in a playoff game. She was the third former UConn player to do it, joining Breanna Stewart and Maya Moore.

“Phee just has the ability to know, each game, what it is she’s going to get and how she’s going to get it,” Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve said, per The New York Times. “She’s like an amoeba that if they’re going to let her be in the paint, then she’s going to find herself in the paint, she’s going to screen, she’s going to roll. If the paint is going to be more difficult, she understands how to play in movement and be on the perimeter.”

Through the first two playoff games in 2024, Collier has scored 80 total points, the most in a two-game playoff stretch in league history. She's been as dominant as any player this postseason.

Minnesota may not need a 40-point performance from Collier every single night to win a WNBA championship, but that level of production certainly helps.

Collier's Historic Performance

Collier's 42-point performance was a sight to behold. She was unstoppable on offense, scoring at will from all three levels. She was also a force on defense, blocking two shots and stealing the ball once. Collier's all-around game was on full display in Wednesday's game.

A Record-Setting Night

Collier's 42 points tied the WNBA playoff record for points in a single game, a record previously held by Breanna Stewart and Angel McCoughtry. She also became just the sixth player in league history to score 40 points in a playoff game. She was the third former UConn player to do it, joining Breanna Stewart and Maya Moore. Collier's performance was a testament to her talent and hard work.

A Well-Rounded Game

Collier was not only dominant on offense, but she also played a crucial role on defense. She blocked two shots and stole the ball once. Collier's all-around game was a major reason why the Lynx were able to secure a victory.

The Mercury's Farewell to a Legend

The Mercury's loss was a heartbreaker for the team, but most especially for Diana Taurasi, who’s nearing the end of an illustrious career. After compiling through a resume worthy of GOAT status, Taurasi declined to answer when asked postgame if the league had seen the last of her. She netted 10 points for the Mercury while center Brittney Griner led the way for the Mercury with 24 points.

The Lynx Move On to the Semifinals

The Lynx's victory over the Mercury sets up a rematch of last season's WNBA semifinals, where Connecticut emerged victorious. This year's series promises to be just as exciting, with both teams featuring some of the league's best players. Collier and the Lynx will look to avenge last year's loss and advance to the WNBA Finals.

The Connecticut Sun: A Tough Challenge

The Sun will be a tough challenge for the Lynx. They are a well-rounded team with a strong defense and a balanced offense. The Sun are led by Alyssa Thomas, a do-it-all player who can score, rebound, and assist. The Sun also have a number of other talented players, including DeWanna Bonner and Marina Mabrey.

The Lynx will need to play their best basketball to defeat the Sun. They will need to find a way to contain Thomas, and they will need to make sure they don't get bogged down by the Sun's defense.

The Future is Bright for the Lynx

The Lynx have a bright future ahead of them. They have a young core of talented players, led by Collier. The Lynx have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with, and they will be a contender for the WNBA championship for years to come.

The Lynx's next game will be against the Connecticut Sun on Sunday, at Target Center in Minneapolis. The Sun are a tough opponent, but the Lynx are confident that they can get the job done.

It's More Than Just Points

It's worth noting that Collier's dominance is not just about the points. It's about her efficiency and her impact on the game. Collier's ability to create scoring opportunities for her teammates is just as valuable as her ability to score herself. She is a complete player, and she is a major reason why the Lynx are one of the best teams in the WNBA.

It's the beginning of what could be a long playoff run for the Lynx, led by the unstoppable force that is Napheesa Collier.