Connecticut built an early lead before holding off a late Portland rally in a back-and-forth finish.
The Connecticut Sun built a double-digit lead early and held on late, surviving a fourth-quarter comeback attempt from the Portland Fire to secure a 90-87 victory.
Connecticut controlled the opening half, using balanced scoring and strong interior play to create separation. After taking a 32-23 lead into the second quarter, the Sun continued to build momentum and entered halftime with a 50-40 advantage.
Portland responded after halftime, cutting into the deficit and making the game more competitive.
Connecticut pushed its lead back into double digits during the third quarter, with Brittney Griner making an impact on both ends of the floor. However, Portland closed the period with momentum, trimming the deficit before entering the fourth quarter trailing 72-63.
The Fire carried that momentum into the final frame, quickly turning the game into a battle. Portland’s defensive pressure forced Connecticut into several turnovers, while Aaliyah Engstler helped spark the comeback with aggressive drives and key baskets.
The Sun responded with timely plays of their own. Griner continued to provide an inside presence, including a turnaround jumper midway through the fourth quarter that helped Connecticut maintain its lead. Maddy Siegrist also delivered in the closing minutes, helping the Sun withstand Portland’s push.
The Fire continued to battle until the final seconds, cutting the deficit to three points late in the game behind a strong fourth-quarter push from Aaliyah Engstler. However, Connecticut responded with timely baskets and key defensive stops to hold off the comeback attempt.
Maddy Siegrist led the Sun with 21 points, while Brittney Griner added 20 and Olivia Nelson-Ododa contributed 16. Leila Lacan chipped in 14 points for Connecticut, while Engstler paced Portland with 14. Connecticut’s strong first-half performance ultimately proved to be the difference, as the Sun held on for the 90-87 victory.