Lynx Coach Cheryl Reeve Offers Limited Update on Napheesa Collier's Recovery

In late April, the Minnesota Lynx revealed that five-time All-Star forward Napheesa Collier had undergone a second ankle surgery on March 24, with hopes for her return to the court set for early June. As June has arrived, head coach Cheryl Reeve faced numerous inquiries regarding Collier's status during a recent press conference.

"I’m not equipped today to tell you exactly where she’s at," Reeve stated when asked about Collier's progress. She clarified, “What does on court activity mean? She’s been on the court. Team-related activities and things like that? No, we’re not there. But she’s been on court doing basketball things.”

When questioned if the Lynx's strong 7-2 start could influence Collier's recovery timeline, Reeve firmly replied, “No, absolutely not.”

Collier, who was named the 2024 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year and the 2024 Commissioner’s Cup MVP, suffered a Grade 2 tear of three ankle ligaments during the WNBA semifinals against the Phoenix Mercury last September. Her injury played a significant role in the Lynx's playoff exit, marking a disappointing end to a season in which they boasted a league-best record of 34-10.

Despite Collier's setback, the Lynx have maintained their momentum into the 2026 season. Much of this success is attributed to Reeve’s coaching, along with the impressive contributions of rookie point guard Olivia Miles. The second overall pick in the 2026 draft, Miles has integrated smoothly into the team and allowed All-Star Courtney Williams to return to her preferred shooting guard role. In a recent dominant victory over Phoenix, Miles was instrumental, scoring or assisting on 39 points in the Lynx’s 111-77 win. Currently, they rank second in the league for scoring, averaging 90.9 points per game, trailing only behind the Indiana Fever.

As the Lynx aim for their second WNBA Commissioner’s Cup title in three years, Collier's return will be crucial if they hope to secure their first WNBA championship since 2017.