On August 2, 2025, Kayla McBride made WNBA history by becoming the first player ever to make eight three-pointers in a single half without missing a shot, leading the Minnesota Lynx to a staggering 111-58 victory over the Las Vegas Aces. This flawless shooting performance established a new benchmark for three-point accuracy in a single half, highlighting McBride’s exceptional skill and precision in the league.
Outstanding Performances by Former Notre Dame Players in the WNBA
This week has been remarkable for former Notre Dame Women’s basketball players in the WNBA. Skylar Diggins kicked off the week by recording her first career regular-season triple-double, despite only playing 22 minutes and 51 seconds—setting a new record for the least time played in a triple-double. Rookie Sonia Citron followed up with a career-high 28 points the next day, and Jackie Young also notched her first career triple-double. Amid these feats, McBride’s extraordinary shooting performance stood out as the most historic achievement.
Game Highlights and Team Contributions in the Lynx Blowout
McBride’s immaculate shooting in the first half included a perfect 8-for-8 on three-pointers, accumulating 24 points along with two rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Despite her stellar start, McBride was rested during the fourth quarter due to Minnesota’s overwhelming lead, preventing her from potentially tying or surpassing the WNBA single-game record of nine three-pointers made. The Lynx’s dominance extended beyond McBride’s performance, with teammates Jessica Shepard and Napheesa Collier each contributing 18 points to secure the largest road victory margin in WNBA history at 53 points.
Historical Context of the Largest WNBA Margins of Victory
The Lynx’s 53-point road win over the Aces marked the biggest away-game victory margin ever recorded in the league. Notably, Minnesota had previously set the record for the largest margin of victory overall when they defeated the Indiana Fever by 59 points in 2017. This consistency in commanding performances underscores the Lynx’s position as a powerhouse within the WNBA’s competitive landscape.
Legacy and Impact of Kayla McBride’s Performance
Though McBride missed two three-pointers in the third quarter and did not surpass her career-high of 38 points scored in a single game—set in 2018 while with the Las Vegas Aces—her flawless half of shooting remains an extraordinary accomplishment. Given the rarity of such precision, fans and analysts alike recognize that her WNBA three-point record may stand for some time. McBride’s historic display affirms her status as one of the league’s most formidable sharpshooters and elevates the expectations for three-point shooting standards across the WNBA.
“AN UNREAL 1ST HALF FOR KAYLA MCBRIDE!24 PTS8-8 3PT2 REB4 AST2 STLShe becomes the only player in league history to score 8 3PM on 100% FG in any half ð pic.twitter.com/e26t8sMAuR” —WNBA (@WNBA)
“The Minnesota Lynx defeat the Las Vegas Aces Aces 111-58 to mark the LARGEST ROAD WIN in WNBA history ðKayla McBride led the way with 24 PTS, 5 REB, & 8 3PM (8-10 3P%). Jessica Shepard and Napheesa Collier also added in 18 PTS each in the win!#WelcometotheW pic.twitter.com/HAuGtsD8wG” —WNBA (@WNBA)
Kayla McBride’s remarkable feat not only contributes to the Minnesota Lynx’s legacy but also raises the profile of sharpshooting in women’s professional basketball. As the WNBA season progresses, the significance of her performance is expected to influence how teams strategize offense and defend beyond the arc. McBride’s achievement not only reflects individual excellence but also highlights the evolving competitiveness and excitement within the league.