**Lynx's Epic Rally Marks Unprecedented Comeback in Minnesota Sports**

In a dramatic Game 1 of the WNBA Finals on Thursday night, the Minnesota Lynx pulled off what might be the most remarkable comeback in the state's sports history. Down 81-66 to the New York Liberty with just 5:20 remaining in the game, the Lynx's chances of winning were a mere 0.8%, according to ESPN's in-game analytics. The statistics seemed insurmountable: WNBA teams were previously 0-183 in playoff history when trailing by 15 or more points with five minutes left.

What followed in the final minutes and into overtime was nothing short of spectacular. Through a series of determined plays, the Lynx clawed their way back into contention. Their persistence was epitomized by Napheesa Collier’s pivotal turnaround jumper and a crucial defensive stop, eventually securing a 95-93 victory in overtime.

This win stands out even among other storied comebacks in Minnesota sports. Consider the Minneapolis Miracle from the 2017 NFL playoffs, where the Minnesota Vikings secured a last-second victory over the New Orleans Saints. While thrilling, it was essentially one miraculous play rather than a sustained comeback.

Or take the 2024 Western Conference semifinals, where the Minnesota Timberwolves overcame a 20-point deficit to defeat the Denver Nuggets in Game 7, advancing to the conference finals. Despite this being an elimination game, the Timberwolves’ odds were not as steep as the Lynx’s.

The Minnesota Wild also have their share of dramatic victories, winning three Game 7s in their franchise history. Notable are the 2003 playoff victories over Colorado and Vancouver, and a 2014 win featuring a tying goal with just 2:27 left in regulation. However, none faced the sheer improbability the Lynx did.

Further back in 1987, the Minnesota Twins overcame a 5-2 deficit in the fifth inning of Game 6 in the World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals. They not only won that game 11-5 but also secured their first championship in Game 7. Despite the stakes, Baseball Reference still gave them a 19% chance of winning this elimination game, significantly higher than the Lynx's odds.

In terms of sustained improbability and high stakes, the Lynx’s Game 1 victory against the Liberty could indeed be the greatest playoff comeback in Minnesota's sports history.