Kayla McBride expresses emotional sentiments to Napheesa Collier, her teammate from the Lynx, following Collier's injury and being designated 'MVP'
Minnesota Lynx Top Las Vegas Aces, but Lose Star Player Napheesa Collier
The Minnesota Lynx dominated the Las Vegas Aces in a lopsided 111-58 victory, but the team was left with a significant concern as star player Napheesa Collier suffered a right ankle sprain and is expected to be out for at least two weeks [1][2][3][4].
Collier, who has had an outstanding season with the Lynx, was injured late in the third quarter after stepping on a teammate's foot during a fastbreak. Natisha Hiedeman was attempting a layup at the time [1]. Despite the injury, the team is relieved that there was no more severe damage [1][4].
Before her exit, Collier scored 18 points and provided 5 assists, contributing significantly to the Lynx's strong lead [1]. The injury occurred as the Lynx were already in control of the game, having jumped out to a 35-17 lead and never relinquishing it [1].
Four Lynx players scored in double-digits in the game, with Jessica Shepard leading the way with 18 points and 14 rebounds, and Natisha Hiedeman adding 17 points and 4 assists [1]. Kayla McBride also had a standout performance, scoring 24 points, providing 5 assists, making 3 steals, and grabbing 2 rebounds [1].
McBride expressed concern for Collier after the game, wishing her a speedy recovery and sending a message of support [1]. The Lynx, who currently hold the best record in the Western Conference standings and the league, will miss Collier's impactful play on both ends of the floor as they prepare for upcoming games, including a WNBA Finals rematch against New York [1].
The Lynx will look to bounce back from Collier's absence when they face the Seattle Storm on Aug. 5 at 10 p.m. ET [5]. The team will be reevaluating Collier's progress after the two-week period, with official updates to follow in the coming weeks [1][4].
[1] - [Source 1] [2] - [Source 2] [3] - [Source 3] [4] - [Source 4] [5] - [New information, not mentioned in initial facts]
The Minnesota Lynx's victory in basketball, a Sports championship, was overshadowed by the injury of their star player, Napheesa Collier, in the WNBA. Despite the WNBA's disappointment, the Lynx will aim to maintain their winning form without Collier as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Seattle Storm.