Josh Franklin, a St. Paul attorney, paused for a moment in the middle of First Avenue to admire the large “Go Lynx” text painted on the street. He believes the timing of the team’s success is beneficial for the city, mentioning that it would be Minnesota’s first professional championship since before the pandemic and the unrest following the killing of George Floyd.

“Seeing this here … in 2024 really gives the city a whole new feel and brings back togetherness,” Franklin said.

Minneapolis City Council member LaTrisha Vetaw attended the game Tuesday night along with fellow council member Andrea Jenkins. Vetaw believes the Lynx are more confident about their chances this year because of their past success.

“We were excited about the Timberwolves, but there’s a little more certainty to it,” Vetaw said.

In interviews with fans leaving the arena and others watching at the women’s sports bar A Bar of Their Own in Minneapolis, most said they had begun following the team closely in recent years. The popularity of Indiana rookie guard Caitlin Clark has brought new attention to women’s basketball. But some have been watching for much longer.

“I always thought women’s sports were popular, I think everyone just joined the bandwagon,” said Crystal Ruiz, a season ticket holder.