The Minnesota Lynx celebrated one of their greatest players with a banner unveiling ceremony honoring Seimone Augustus and her dual 2024 Hall of Fame inductions before defeating the Los Angeles Sparks 101-78 on Friday night at Target Center.
Augustus, who helped lead the Lynx to four WNBA championships during her 14-year career, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024. The franchise retired her No. 33 jersey in a special pregame ceremony that drew emotional responses from teammates, coaches, and fans.
Olsen Guides Emotional Tribute
FanDuel Sports Network Lynx analyst Lea B. Olsen served as master of ceremonies for the 20-minute tribute that featured video highlights spanning Augustus’s illustrious career. The ceremony began with a montage showcasing her collegiate success at Louisiana State University before transitioning to her professional achievements with Minnesota.
Augustus played 15 seasons in the WNBA, spending all but one with the Lynx organization. She averaged 15.4 points per game, and the league named her to eight All-Star teams. The 6-foot guard was instrumental in Minnesota’s championship runs in 2011, 2013, 2015 and
2017.
Former Teammates Share Memories
Current Lynx forward Napheesa Collier opened the speaking portion of the ceremony, praising Augustus’s leadership and professionalism. Collier emphasized how Augustus set the standard for excellence within the organization and served as a mentor to younger players throughout her career.
Former Lynx center Sylvia Fowles followed with remarks highlighting Augustus’s clutch performances during the team’s championship seasons. Fowles, a Hall of Famer, noted Augustus’s ability to elevate her game during crucial moments and her unwavering commitment to team success.
Maya Moore, who played alongside Augustus during three of the team’s four championship campaigns, spoke about their on-court chemistry and shared leadership responsibilities. Moore credited Augustus with helping create the winning culture that defined the Lynx during their dynasty years.
Retired guard Katie Smith, who coached Augustus during her final seasons with the Minnesota Lynx, concluded the speeches by discussing the veteran’s impact on team chemistry and her role in developing younger players. Smith praised Augustus’s basketball intelligence and ability to adapt her game as her career progressed.
New Banner Revealed in the Rafters
The ceremony culminated in the unveiling of a black cloth to reveal her new banner. The banner features her No. 33 jersey and has Hall of Fame written below it, creating a permanent tribute to her contributions to women’s basketball.
Augustus wiped away tears as the crowd gave her a standing ovation. She acknowledged fans in the arena before taking her seat to watch the game.
Lynx Dominate Sparks
Following the emotional ceremony, Minnesota strategically controlled the game against Los Angeles. They built a 30-point lead by halftime and maintained it, reassuring Lynx fans of their team’s strength and control.
Collier led Minnesota with 32 points and eight rebounds, while veteran guard Courtney Williams added 17 points and two assists. The Lynx’s defensive prowess was on full display as they held the Sparks to just 23 percent shooting, a performance that surely left the audience impressed and in awe.
Los Angeles struggled offensively throughout the contest, with only 11 points in the second quarter. The Sparks never mounted a serious comeback attempt as Minnesota maintained comfortable double-digit leads for the final three quarters.
Legacy Preserved
The victory improved Minnesota’s record to 10-1, making them the league’s number-one team. However, the night belonged to Augustus, whose impact on the franchise extends beyond statistics and championships.
Her Hall of Fame inductions represent the pinnacle of individual recognition. At the same time, the banner ceremony ensures her legacy will inspire future generations of Lynx players and fans for years to come.
