Collier's Comeback: Ankle Injuries Can't Stop Lynx Title Chase

Napheesa Collier has returned to the Minnesota Lynx after a challenging recovery from two complex ankle surgeries. She missed the first 10 weeks of the season, undergoing extensive rehabilitation following a severe injury that occurred on August 2, 2025. Her comeback marks a pivotal moment for the Lynx, who are once again vying for a WNBA championship.

Despite Collier's absence, the Lynx have performed exceptionally, holding the top spot for much of the summer. Rookie Olivia Miles has been a standout, emerging as a Rookie of the Year favorite and an MVP candidate. Her stellar play has kept the team competitive, demonstrating the Lynx's depth and resilience.

The team has faced significant playoff heartbreaks in recent seasons, falling short despite dominant regular-season performances. Collier's return is seen as the missing piece to finally secure a championship for the franchise, building on the success of the current roster.

Collier's personal goals have shifted from individual accolades to ensuring peak performance for the playoffs. She aims to regain full strength and fine-tune her game during the remaining regular season games and the upcoming FIBA World Cup break.