Star player Napheesa Collier departs during Minnesota Lynx's massive 53-point victory over the Las Vegas Aces
Minnesota Lynx Star Napheesa Collier Suffers Right Ankle Sprain
In a disappointing turn of events, Napheesa Collier, the MVP frontrunner for the Minnesota Lynx, sustained a right ankle sprain during Saturday's game against the Las Vegas Aces. The injury was confirmed by an MRI, and Collier is expected to be sidelined for at least two weeks, with a reevaluation planned in the coming weeks [1][3][5].
The injury occurred late in the third quarter when Collier stepped awkwardly on a teammate's foot, causing immediate pain and forcing her to leave the game, though she was able to walk off the court with assistance [1][2]. The ankle sprain is not considered a major injury, but the team has not provided a specific recovery timeline beyond the initial two-week expectation [3][5].
The 53-point victory over the Las Vegas Aces was the largest road win in WNBA history. The game ended with a score of 111-58, with the Lynx as the victors. Despite Collier's absence, the team currently holds a substantial lead in the standings [1][3].
Coach Cheryl Reeve has not speculated on Collier getting an MRI, traveling with the team to Seattle, or returning home to Minnesota. The specific details of Collier's injury and its impact on her participation in future games have not been disclosed [3].
Collier's teammates, coaches, and trainers eventually made their way to the opposite end of the court to tend to her. Aces starters A'ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, NaLyssa Smith, and Kierstan Bell immediately surrounded Collier to shield her from exposure. Collier left the court on her own, favoring her right ankle [1].
The Lynx are off until Tuesday, when they will finish their two-game trip in Seattle. The team will undoubtedly miss Collier's leadership and stellar performance during this crucial period as they approach playoffs. Fans and supporters alike are keeping their fingers crossed for a speedy recovery for the star forward.
[1] ESPN [2] The Associated Press [3] Star Tribune [5] NBC Sports
- The media coverage of Napheesa Collier's injury has dominated sports news, particularly in Toronto, as she is a key player for the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA.
- Despite Napheesa Collier's injury, the Minnesota Lynx's recent win over the Las Vegas Aces was reported as a significant news item in the sports section of various media outlets, including court-side reporting in Toronto.
- The courtroom drama surrounding a high-profile trial in Toronto took a backseat in the media as the sports world paid attention to Napheesa Collier's injury and the implications for the Minnesota Lynx, her team, and the WNBA.
