Basketball player Napheesa Collier from Lynx is attended to off-court following a startling collision with the Aces.
Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier is set to miss at least two weeks due to a sprained right ankle, sustained during the team's game against the Las Vegas Aces on August 2, 2025. Collier's injury occurred towards the end of the third quarter, when she rolled her ankle after stepping on teammate Alanna Smith's foot[1][2][3].
The incident caused Collier to collapse, prompting both benches to empty as players and coaches checked on her welfare. Fortunately, she was able to walk off the court with assistance[4][5]. An MRI confirmed the injury, and the Lynx are planning to reevaluate Collier's condition in the coming weeks[2].
Collier, who is currently the frontrunner for the WNBA MVP award, was averaging an impressive 23.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.8 steals, and 1.7 blocks on 53.7% shooting before the Aces matchup[6]. Her absence could significantly impact the Lynx's quest for championship redemption, following last year's loss to the New York Liberty[7].
However, the Lynx are taking a cautious approach to ensure Collier is fully fit for the playoffs, which begin on September 14, 2025. With four or more games potentially missed, including crucial regular-season contests against top teams like the New York Liberty[2][4], the team's focus is on Collier's long-term health.
Collier's impact on her team and the WNBA as a whole was evident, as she has been a key player in the Lynx's success this season. Her MVP bid might not be at risk if she has to miss an extended amount of time, as her dominance on the court has been undeniable[8].
The Lynx have yet to provide a precise timeline for Collier's return, but fans and players alike are hopeful for her speedy recovery. Collier's return to full fitness will be crucial for the Lynx's hopes of claiming the WNBA championship this season.
[1] [Minnesota Lynx] (https://www.wnba.com/lynx/) [2] [ESPN] (https://www.espn.com/wnba/) [3] [Sports Illustrated] (https://www.si.com/wnba/) [4] [The Athletic] (https://theathletic.com/wnba/) [5] [CBS Sports] (https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/) [6] [NBA] (https://www.nba.com/wnba/) [7] [Yahoo Sports] (https://sports.yahoo.com/wnba/) [8] [SBNation] (https://www.sbnation.com/wnba/)
Despite Napheesa Collier's sprained right ankle, the Lynx arebeing cautious and prioritizing her long-term health for the playoffs in September. As the WNBA MVP front-runner, Collier's absence could affect the Lynx's quest for championship redemption this season.
