Minnesota Lynx triumph over Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever during Maya Moore's jersey retirement ceremony.

 Minnesota Lynx fans celebrated a double victory on Saturday, witnessing both a win against the Indiana Fever and the retirement of WNBA legend Maya Moore’s jersey.

Despite Caitlin Clark's impressive 23 points, the Lynx triumphed 90-80, marking their sixth consecutive victory and securing a playoff spot.

After the game, Moore’s No. 23 jersey was raised to the rafters of the Target Center in Minneapolis, eliciting applause from the enthusiastic crowd.

Drafted first overall by the Lynx in the 2011 WNBA Draft, Moore played all eight of her WNBA seasons with Minnesota, leading the team to four championships and earning the league MVP title in 2014.

Beyond her remarkable basketball career, Moore's advocacy work is equally noteworthy. She played a crucial role in securing the release of Jonathan Irons, who was wrongfully imprisoned for 22 years. The two married in 2020 and welcomed their son, Jonathan Jr.

Moore announced her retirement from the WNBA in 2023. At the ceremony, surrounded by family, friends, former teammates, and coaches, the emotional 35-year-old expressed deep gratitude for the support she received throughout her career.

“My life is an example of what it looks like when we love a little girl well,” Moore said, reflecting on her banner being raised. “So many people have shown me what life is about. I aim to bring life and joy because I’ve been a recipient of both. Don’t underestimate the little ways you love and support others; it’s not in vain.”

Moore also acknowledged the “miracle” of having Irons present at the event. “For so many years, you watched me through your 13-inch TV, with little chance to connect,” she said. “Now you’re front row, enjoying it the most.”

As she pointed to her banner, she said, “Look at that. What an honor. Love you guys so much,” 

prompting a standing ovation from the crowd.

Caitlin Clark, playing in front of her idol, reached a milestone of her own in the first quarter, scoring her 500th career point in just 29 games.

Before the game, Clark expressed her gratitude to Moore, calling her “the person” who influenced her basketball journey. “She was the person for me growing up,” Clark said. “Those are the types of role models you want for your young daughters. It’s surreal to play here as a pro after competing in college; it feels like a full circle moment. Maya was definitely that person for me.”

Upcoming Highlights

• Tina Charles of the Atlanta Dream has moved to second place on the WNBA's all-time scoring list.
• Minnesota's first lady, Gwen Walz, continues to be a powerful force alongside her husband, Governor Tim Walz.
• Rookie Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky is making history in the WNBA.
• After a concerning injury, Chicago Bears' Douglas Coleman III is back home after his hospital release.
• DiJonai Carrington led the Connecticut Sun to victory over the Los Angeles Sparks at a sold-out TD Garden, following her public call-out of the WNBA.