In a display of city-wide camaraderie and sports enthusiasm, Minneapolis is quite literally painting the town in team colors to cheer on the Minnesota Lynx's playoff journey. According to the City of Minneapolis official website, a stretch of First Avenue now boasts a colossal "Go Lynx!" painted in the team's signature blue and green, a vibrant homage to their entry into the Western Conference Playoffs.
Working under the cloak of night, Public Works crews were seen adorning the pavement between Fifth and Sixth streets North, brandishing the Lynx logo as proclaiming their support. Mayor Jacob Frey, in a move that muddles civic duty with fanfare, even joined the nocturnal artistic venture—brushing the ambition of the team onto the streets himself. "The Wolves made a run, the Lynx are on fire—Minneapolis is a basketball town!" Mayor Frey's words echo from the city's announcement, with the kind of spirited conviction that could only come from a true believer.
These are not just routine public works, though. As Tim Sexton, the Public Works Director said, "Team Public Works is always at the ready to support our Lynx" — his team's efforts seem to go well beyond simple municipal tasks. They hung Lynx-themed street signs high, giving a visual shoutout to the athletes, at the intersections of First Avenue with both Sixth and Seventh streets.
It's no secret that city officials are waxing prideful over their local heroes; they've gone all in on the celebration as the Lynx face the Phoenix Mercury for game two of the series. Adam Duininck is the voice of the entire downtown community on the matter, meriting a mention for his commendation of the team. "The inspiring energy the Lynx have brought to downtown throughout fitheir successful regular season has been remarkable," Duininck said, handing over a baton of encouragement to fans from the area's bars and restaurants, to rally in the city's center. This sentiment was shared in a statement obtained by the City of Minneapolis.
The city's streets, now a canvas of support, and its signs of encouragement will remain throughout the Lynx's playoff run—a lasting testament to Minneapolis’ pride in its team. Akin to a standing ovation in paint and metal, downtown Minneapolis has framed an urban embrace for the Lynx as they continue their quest for a fifth WNBA championship.
