Pac-12 coaches and players predict the outcome of Game 5 WNBA Finals

In just a few hours, game 5 in the final contest of the WNBA Finals will take place in Minneapolis as the Minnesota Lynx host the Indiana Fever. Three former Pac-12 players are participating, all members of the Fever: Briann January (Arizona State), Jeanette Pohlen (Stanford) and Layshia Clarendon (Cal). Today is also Pac-12 media day at the league’s studios in downtown San Francisco. We asked a few coaches and players about their predictions for the WNBA championship.

Arizona State With January on the roster of the Fever, coach Charli Thorne is an unabashed Indiana fan and is rooting hard for the team from Indianapolis. She said if the Fever win, January should be named the Finals MVP.

“I could not be more happy and obviously more proud,” said the coach about the former ASU star. “She’s always represented us very well, always positive, always coachable. She truly, genuinely loves the game.”

Oregon State Head coach Scott Rueck had one word for his reply: “Maya”

Stanford Head coach Tara VanDerveer was in contact with Pohlen today. However, she thinks the Minnesota will win: “I’m hoping for Indiana but I think the Lynx will win.” Junior Erica “Bird” McCall was quick in her response: “Maya Moore at Minnesota, that’s a win.”

UCLA Bruins coach Cori Close: “I’m hoping for Indiana.”

USC Cynthia Cooper-Dyke, who won the first four WNBA championships with the Houston Comets says she thought the Lynx would win from the beginning of the playoffs.

Utah New Utes coach Lynne Roberts did not hesitate in her response. “I can’t go against Maya Moore.”

Washington Huskies star Kelsey Plum: “I’m with Maya.”