MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL – The Lynx announced the organization will host its annual Pride Night on Friday, June 25 when the Lynx play the Las Vegas Aces at Target Center (7 p.m. CT). Powered by Xcel Energy, the celebratory night will include robust in-arena entertainment, content, and recognition of individuals and partners who dedicate their time elevating the LQBTQ+ community.
Planned Pride programming includes:
- Fans attending the game receive a free pair of Lynx Pride sunglasses
- Players will wear Pride warm-up shirts and Pride merchandise will be available for purchase through the Lynx mobile app
- Minnesota-based singer, songwriter, and producer, Haley McCallum will sing the national anthem
- New Celebrate Pride content including What Pride Means and Progress videos and a special VOICES episode – “Letter to My Younger Self” featuring Minnesota Lynx Assistant Coach Katie Smith, Co-Director of Pull for Pride and transathlete JayCee Cooper, and Star Tribune Timberwolves beat writer Chris Hine
- Cooper, a 2x National Champion trans powerlifter, will also be named an Inspiring Woman, as part of the Lynx Inspiring Women series that recognizes extraordinary local women who impact the community for the better
- PFund Foundation, which provides support to LGBTQ+ individuals across Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, will be recognized as the Community Champion of the Game
- The Minnesota Lynx and Timberwolves will honor OutFront Minnesota, the state’s largest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization with a community gift
“From the inception of the WNBA we have fought for marginalized groups,” said Minnesota Lynx President of Business Operations Carley Knox. “That’s at the core of who we are as a league. We are committed to using sport as a vehicle of change. Our franchise continues to use our collective voices for the voiceless.”
The organization has been at the forefront leading year-round advocacy for marginalized groups. From public policy and LGBTQ+ legislation, to being a vocal leader and ally, the franchise uses its platform to effect meaningful change.
Lavender magazine recently recognized both Knox and Minnesota Lynx Assistant Coach and five-time WNBA Champion Rebekkah Brunson with the Lavender Community Pride Award for LGBTQ+ Individual. The franchise is also heavily involved with Twin Cities Pride, participating in Family Fun Day, and will be at TC Pride Festival in July and TC Pride Parade this fall.
Single-game tickets for Friday’s game are available and can be purchased at: www.lynxbasketball.com/tickets.