Minnesota sports teams captured multiple titles and reached historic milestones across professional and amateur leagues, according to reports from Sun Newspapers sports editor Jason Olson. The achievements span professional women’s football and basketball, alongside professional golf milestones in Blaine.
Minnesota Vixen Claim First WFA Pro Division Title
The Minnesota Vixen secured their first Women’s Football Association Pro division title by defeating the Pittsburgh Passion 42-14 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, according to Sun Newspapers. Vixen quarterback Erin Kelley earned game MVP honors after completing 15 of 20 passes for 152 yards and two touchdowns.
The Vixen defense forced five turnovers, including four interceptions, highlighted by a 49-yard interception returned for a touchdown by linebacker Paige Condie. Running back Tiffany Wright contributed 98 yards and two rushing touchdowns. Coached by Connor Jo Lewis, the Vixen finished the season with an 8-1 record. Founded in 1999, the team is the nation’s oldest team and broke through for a league title after losing four previous championship appearances, according to team history cited by Olson.
Minnesota Lynx Enter WNBA All-Star Break Atop Standings
The Minnesota Lynx entered the WNBA All-Star break holding a league-best 22-6 record on a seven-game winning streak, according to Sun Newspapers. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve led representatives that included rookie guard Olivia Miles and Courtney Williams playing on Team Spoon, while Natasha Howard played for Team Coop in a 129-122 contest. Napheesa Collier returned from injury to score 24 points with 10 rebounds in 22 minutes during an 86-76 victory at Seattle on July 22. With Kayla McBride also on the roster, the Lynx face their final 16 regular-season games running through Sept. 24 ahead of a postseason push.
Course Records Fall at the 3M Open in Blaine
Jackson Koivun secured a three-shot win at 25-under-par to hold off Scottie Scheffler at the 3M Open in Blaine, earning $1.58 million and 500 FedExCup points in his third professional start, according to Sun Newspapers. Koivun set a new tournament-record score. During the opening round, PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp hit a drive on the fourth hole that bounced three times before stopping directly on the lip of the cup, narrowly missing a hole-in-one. Michael Kim additionally established a new course record by shooting a 59 during the second round.
Minnesota United Draw With Vancouver
Minnesota United returned to Major League Soccer action following the World Cup break with a scoreless draw against Vancouver on Saturday, following a 2-1 loss to Sporting KC on July 22, according to Sun Newspapers. Meanwhile, Minnesota Twins fans monitor the trade deadline with the team sitting within striking distance of a playoff spot.
Did You Know?
Founded in 1999, the Minnesota Vixen are the nation’s oldest women’s professional football franchise. Defensive lineman Cynthia “Red” Bryant is one of three original players who remained with the franchise for their championship run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the WFA Pro division championship?
The Minnesota Vixen defeated the Pittsburgh Passion 42-14 to win their first WFA Pro division title, according to Sun Newspapers reporting by Jason Olson.
What was the record of the Minnesota Lynx entering the All-Star break?
The Minnesota Lynx held a league-best 22-6 record and a seven-game winning streak entering the break, according to Sun Newspapers.
Who won the 3M Open in Blaine?
Jackson Koivun won the tournament with a record score of 25-under-par, according to Sun Newspapers.
Readers are invited to submit summer sports team tournament trophy photos to the Sun Current or Sun Sailor. Submissions should be emailed to [email protected] alongside complete identifications from front row left to right, the tournament finish, date, and a brief recap.
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