The Dynamic Duo: Napheesa Collier and Cheryl Reeve at the Olympics

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by | Nov 17, 2024 | uncategorised

When it comes to women’s basketball, few names resonate as powerfully as Napheesa Collier and Cheryl Reeve. The pairing of these two figures at the Olympics exemplifies the pinnacle of talent, strategy, and leadership in the sport. Both have carved out legendary careers in the WNBA, and their collaboration on the international stage is nothing short of spectacular.

Napheesa Collier: A Star

Napheesa Collier’s journey to Olympic glory began with her collegiate career at UConn, where she quickly established herself as one of the top players in the nation. Her versatility on the court, combining scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess, made her a standout. Drafted by the Minnesota Lynx in 2019, Collier wasted no time making her mark in the WNBA. She earned Rookie of the Year honors and continued to elevate her game each season.

At the Olympics, Collier’s role was crucial. Her ability to play multiple positions, guard various types of players, and contribute offensively made her an indispensable asset to Team USA. She brought the same energy and skill that she’s known for in the WNBA, but on a global stage, her impact was magnified. Collier’s poise under pressure, combined with her relentless work ethic, helped propel the team through tough matchups.

Cheryl Reeve: The Mastermind Behind the Success

Behind every great team is a great coach, and Cheryl Reeve is that coach for Team USA. Reeve’s coaching career is storied, with numerous accolades including multiple WNBA championships with the Minnesota Lynx. Her ability to get the best out of her players, adapt strategies on the fly, and build a cohesive unit is unmatched.

At the Olympics, Reeve’s leadership was pivotal. She was not just managing a team of superstars; she was crafting a collective identity that emphasized teamwork, resilience, and execution. Her connection with Collier, having coached her in Minnesota, was a significant advantage. Reeve knew how to utilize Collier’s strengths to benefit the team while also challenging her to elevate her game even further.

The Olympic Battle: A Test of Legacy

The 2024 Olympics solidified Team USA’s position as the most dominant team in Olympic basketball history, with an astonishing 8 straight gold medals and an undefeated streak of 61-0. However, their path to glory was anything but easy. In the final against a relentless French team, the game went down to the wire in what would be remembered as one of the most daring and nail-biting battles in Olympic history.

France, known for their defensive tenacity, refused to back down, making it a single-possession game all the way to the end. Gabby Williams, who had been a thorn in Team USA’s side all night, had a chance to change the game’s outcome with a shot that narrowly missed being a three-pointer by the slimmest of margins, her foot barely on the line, making the score 66-67. It was a heart-stopping moment that epitomized the intensity of the match.

Despite the immense pressure of maintaining a historic streak, Collier and her teammates remained composed. Collier, full of smiles even in the game’s most tense moments, epitomized the team’s calm and collected demeanor. It was not just about individual brilliance; it was about a comprehensive, complete team win—a testament to Reeve’s coaching and the adaptability of the players.

The French defense was relentless, with players turning every possession into a battle. As A’ja Wilson put it after the game, “God was working today.” Cheryl Reeve, always preaching defense, recognized that it was more than just a strategy—it was an identity. “It’s France’s identity and our identity,” Reeve said. “It comes down to players making plays.”

In the end, Team USA prevailed by the narrowest of margins, securing their eighth consecutive gold medal. The amount of pressure from a streak like this was enormous, but the team’s ability to adjust, trust each other, and remain adaptable was incredible. Reeve acknowledged this, saying, “It’s not talked about enough, the way they have to adjust. The trust and adaptability are incredible to me.”

Conclusion

Napheesa Collier and Cheryl Reeve are a dynamic duo whose impact on women’s basketball will be felt for years to come. Their Olympic journey was a brilliant display of talent, leadership, and teamwork. As they continue to inspire the next generation of athletes, their legacy in the sport is firmly secured, and their story is one that fans will cherish for a long time. Their triumph at the Olympics is a reminder that greatness is not just about winning but prevailing in the toughest of circumstances, fighting tooth and nail, and reaching the greatest heights as a team.

Photo credit: Lynx forward Napheesa Collier drives against Sky forward Angel Reese during the second half Sunday at Target Center. (Ayrton Breckenridge/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Nov 17, 2024 No Comments
Miracle Comeback Win: Lynx Make History, Lead 1-0 Against Liberty in WNBA Finals

Miracle Comeback Win: Lynx Make History, Lead 1-0 Against Liberty in WNBA Finals

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by | Oct 10, 2024 | Featured, Minnesota Lynx, WNBA

Barclays Center, Brooklyn – In a season defined by thrilling moments, few can compare to what unfolded tonight as the Minnesota Lynx faced off against the New York Liberty in Game 1 of the 2024 WNBA Finals. This game will be remembered as one of the greatest in the history of the league, featuring a miraculous 18 point comeback that has cemented the Lynx’s legacy. It was a testament to their resilience, defensive skill, and ability to thrive under pressure. 

Pregame Tensions Set the Stage

Even before the game tipped off, the atmosphere was charged with intensity as the stadium was full of Liberty fans. The Lynx, confident and battle-tested, knew they were prepared for the challenge ahead. Head Coach Cheryl Reeve, a veteran of this stage, emphasized that the team’s belief in themselves would carry them through the tough moments.

On the court, the highly anticipated matchup between Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, co-founders of the new 3-on-3 women’s league, Unrivaled, which is slated to begin play in January, started with a bang—Stewart missed her first shot, while Collier’s defensive efforts helped set the tone early on. Though the Lynx struggled to finish at the rim in the early minutes, the team’s resilience was on full display

Courtney Williams, known for her lethal mid-range game, opened the scoring for Minnesota with a vicious crossover. Kayla McBride missed her first shot but quickly followed it up by scoring on an assist from Williams, marking the beginning of what would be a historic night.

Liberty Look to Break Game 1 Curse

For the New York Liberty, the pressure was high. They entered Game 1 with an unfortunate record of 0-5 at home in series openers, but with seasoned champions like Breanna Stewart and Courtney Vandersloot on their roster, hopes were high that they could break that streak. Jonquel Jones (#25) gave the Liberty their first bucket, drawing a foul in the process, which boosted her confidence and set the tone for the Liberty’s aggressive approach early in the game.

Despite the Liberty’s strong start, the Lynx struggled offensively, appearing neither pretty nor efficient in the first half. It wasn’t until the second half that Minnesota’s resolve and grit became evident.

Game Time: The Tides Turn

By the fourth quarter, the Liberty had built a solid lead, and it appeared they were poised to take Game 1. However, the Lynx had other plans. With defensive intensity at a peak, and Napheesa Collier leading by example, the Lynx chipped away at the Liberty’s lead, possession by possession.

Williams continued to shine, her 3-point game was the play of the night as she knocked down crucial baskets. But it wasn’t just one player who made the difference—it was the collective effort of a Lynx team that refused to quit. They locked down on defense, making life difficult for the Liberty, who suddenly found themselves struggling to maintain their advantage.

As the game headed into overtime, Minnesota’s poise was unmatched. Napheesa Collier made one of multiple plays of the night with 2.6 seconds left, defending Breanna Stewart to prevent her from getting off a clean shot. The move was both brilliant and necessary, as it kept the Liberty from regaining the lead.

Historic Comeback and Victory

In overtime, the Lynx completed their comeback, finishing with a miraculous 95-93 victory. This wasn’t just a win—it tied for the largest comeback in WNBA Finals history coming back after down 18 points, an achievement that will be talked about for years to come. Minnesota’s defense, which had been the backbone of their performance all night, shined in the clutch, and their shooting efficiency (50% from the field) demonstrated their offensive control in the moments that mattered most.

Postgame Reactions

After the game, Napheesa Collier reflected on the win and her team’s mentality throughout the intense matchup.

“You can’t control what happens; you just gotta play defense, and we got it done,” Collier said. “Just keep going. This is the Finals—you can’t give up. We know we can come back and stay strong.”

Speaking on the challenge of defending Breanna Stewart, Collier added, “It’s hard. She’s one of the best players in the world—you just gotta play hard.”

She also praised her teammate Courtney Williams, whose leadership and clutch play were pivotal: “Courtney was amazing—the aggression, the way she played. That’s my point guard right there.”

Williams, equally proud of her team’s effort, spoke about the trust her teammates had in her during the game’s crucial moments.

“We are resilient. We know never to give up; we know what we can do too,” Williams said. “My teammates trust me so much, and we have such great three-point shooters. The fact that they wanted to get the ball in my hands—it means a lot.”

She also acknowledged the role luck played in such a closely contested game: “When you win games like this, it takes a little bit of luck as well.”

Heartbreak for the Liberty

For the New York Liberty, it was a gut-wrenching loss. Despite their strong start and the contributions of their star players, they couldn’t fend off the relentless Lynx. With Game 1 in the books, the Liberty now find themselves needing to regroup and refocus ahead of Game 2 if they hope to turn the series around.

Looking Ahead

The win gives Minnesota a 1-0 lead in the Finals, and their performance tonight will be etched into WNBA history. With their historic comeback fresh in their minds, they’ll be looking to build on that momentum heading into Game 2. For the Liberty, a team filled with veteran leadership, the challenge is clear: bounce back and protect home court to avoid falling further behind.

 

 

 

AP Photo/Pamela Smith

Oct 10, 2024 No Comments
Lynx Bounce Back: Courtney Williams Leads in Game 2 Win Against the Sun (77-70)

Lynx Bounce Back: Courtney Williams Leads in Game 2 Win Against the Sun (77-70)

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by | Oct 2, 2024 | Featured, Minnesota Lynx, WNBA

Target Center, October 2, 2024 – A Gritty, Emotional Showdown

The Minnesota Lynx took the floor tonight at the Target Center with everything on the line in playoff Game 2 of the WNBA semifinals against the Connecticut Sun. The players had that win-or-go-home mentality, and both teams brought intensity and physicality. The game was so heated that after the final whistle, a reporter suggested to Courtney Williams it felt like a fight nearly broke out. Williams responded with a smile, “It’s playoff basketball, folks ain’t fighting.” Her response captured the grit required to compete at this level. But tonight’s game was more than just basketball—it was a test of heart, resilience, and raw emotion. What unfolded on the court wasn’t just a contest between two teams but a battle of willpower and frustration

1st Quarter: Both Teams Search for Rhythm

From the first whistle, you could feel the tension in the air. Connecticut opened the scoring with a free throw after an early foul by Alanna Smith. Minnesota, typically known for sharp execution, struggled to find their footing, with shots not falling as both teams battled defensively. Frustrated Lynx fans voiced their displeasure with the officiating, but Minnesota wasn’t helping their case. Alanna Smith hit a critical three-pointer to tie the game at 8-8, yet the Lynx still lacked their usual chemistry. The quarter ended with Minnesota holding a slim 12-10 lead as both teams searched for rhythm.

2nd Quarter: Connecticut Brings Confidence, Lynx Keep Fighting

The Sun entered the second quarter focused, pushing ahead 13-12, but the Lynx quickly matched that energy, thanks to Natisha Hiedeman’s impactful play off the bench. The game felt up for grabs, though Minnesota made defensive mistakes, allowing Connecticut easy baskets in the paint. Napheesa Collier faced double teams, but players like Alanna Smith stepped up, going 3-for-4 from beyond the arc. Their was a moment where Sun palayer Maria Mabrey collided with Collier and Myisha Hines-Allen was their to defend and protect Collier. From that point on, it was clear that neither team was holding back. Kayla McBride picked up a technical foul, and suddenly it felt like the emotions were about to boil over. The Lynx held a 36-30 lead at the half, but the emotions were palpable, highlighted by Kayla McBride picking up a technical foul.

3rd Quarter: Lynx Fight but Can’t Find Their Flow

After halftime, the Lynx came out swinging, determined to make up the ground they’d lost. But it was clear something still wasn’t clicking. Napheesa Collier, usually the team’s go-to, was struggling to find her shot, sitting at 2-for-9 with five minutes left in the third. Despite her offensive struggles, Collier was everywhere else, grabbing boards and locking down on defense, but Minnesota needed her to get going offensively.

Connecticut’s DeWanna Bonner was a menace in the paint, and the Lynx found it difficult to stop her. She was scoring at will, and the Lynx sometimes had no answer. It was frustrating to watch as Minnesota put together strong defensive possessions only to miss easy shots on the other end but lucky for them it was the same case for the Sun. The game stayed close, but you could feel the tension rising.

4th Quarter: Lynx Lock In, Sun Struggle to Hold On

Then came the fourth quarter—and the Lynx found their groove. The defense that had been solid all night kicked into overdrive, and Minnesota started to dominate. They surged to a 66-56 lead with six minutes left, thanks to stellar defensive stops from Collier, who was reminding everyone why she’s the Defensive Player of the Year. Every time the Sun tried to go inside, Collier was there, shutting down Dijonai Carrington and Bonner. It was her house, and she wasn’t letting anyone in.

But Connecticut didn’t go down quietly. They used quick transitions to get some fast-break points, and the Lynx couldn’t afford to get comfortable. Alyssa Thomas had six assists by this point, but the Sun’s offense was sputtering. The frustration on their faces was evident. They just couldn’t break through the Lynx defense, and every miss or foul called seemed to suck a little more life out of them.

Things got really heated when Kayla McBride and Marina Mabrey got into it—pure streetball vibes and chirping. Williams emphasized how they made sure to match Connecticut’s energy from game 1. The Lynx were able to learn from game 1 and came out on top winning 77-70.

Final Thoughts: Courtney Williams and Napheesa Collier Lead the Charge

Courtney Williams emerged as the unsung hero, leading Minnesota with 17 points and delivering when it mattered most. Her confidence and leadership were pivotal in the tense fourth quarter. Napheesa Collier’s contributions were felt throughout the game, with 12 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks, showcasing her defensive prowess. Despite her shooting struggles, she found ways to impact the game, reinforcing her status as the heart of the Lynx.

As for the Sun, Alyssa Thomas led with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists but struggled to replicate her Game 1 performance against Minnesota’s strong defense.

Up Next: Game 3 – A True Test in Connecticut

With the series now tied 1-1, Smith, who had a big night alongside her teammate Courtney—“her dawg,” as Williams would say—expressed her excitement for the next game and the desire to keep winning, showcasing their confidence.

The Lynx are headed to Mohegan Sun Arena, where the Sun will try to reclaim momentum on their home court. Tip-off is set for 6:30 p.m. CT on Friday, October 4. If tonight’s game taught us anything, it’s that this series is far from over—and it’s only getting more intense.

Post Game Press Conference Highlight: Courtney discusses back and forth battle with Connecticut Sun’s Marina Mabrey. 

 

Oct 2, 2024 No Comments
Maya’s Hoop Highlights: A Night to Remember – Lynx vs. Sparks

Maya’s Hoop Highlights: A Night to Remember – Lynx vs. Sparks

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by | Sep 20, 2024 | Featured, Minnesota Lynx, WNBA

As the 2024 WNBA season wraps up, the excitement is like no other, especially for us Minnesota Lynx fans. Securing the second seed spot in the WNBA is no small achievement, and the atmosphere heading into the game against the Los Angeles Sparks reflected that.

Pregame Highlights

Before the game, Natisha Heideman and Courtney Williams provided a lighthearted moment that set the tone. They were gifted “Stepbrothers” shirts—Natisha’s face edited onto Will Ferrell’s body and Courtney’s onto John C. Reilly’s. This brought some laughs to warm-ups, reminding us that, while they’re fierce competitors, they know how to have fun. In the post-game press conference, Natisha mentioned she didn’t know where it came from, but she said, “Courtney, we cute.”

Game Time

With usual starters KayMac, Dorka, and Phee out after already clinching a playoff spot, the opportunity was open for other players to step up. The Lynx had a strong track record against the Sparks, winning 13 of their last 14 matchups, so confidence was high.

Diamond Miller ignited the crowd with a three-pointer right at the start. The cheers were deafening, but it didn’t take long for the Sparks to respond. Dearica Hamby and Rickea Jackson quickly established dominance both in the paint and from beyond the arc, turning the momentum.

Ollie’s Return

One of the notable moments was Ollie’s return. After re-signing with the Lynx, she was intense during warmups, clearly focused. Her playmaking skills are invaluable, and it’s impressive to see how the team stays ready, even when not in the starting lineup.

Performance Overview

As the game progressed, the Lynx attempted to close the scoring gap, but the Sparks remained in control, as the Lynx struggled to capitalize on key layups and free throws. Diamond Miller finished with eight points and three rebounds, while Alissa Pili matched her with eight points, tying her career high in steals. Alanna Smith added six points, eight rebounds, and played strong defense.

On the opposing side, Dearica Hamby was a standout, leading the Sparks with 20 points and making multiple key plays. Los Angeles defeated the Lynx 68-51, but it also provided an important opportunity for Minnesota’s bench players to gain invaluable in-game experience, which adds depth to their roster.

Looking Ahead

With the Lynx closing the season with a home record of 16-4—tying the franchise record for home wins—there’s a sense of optimism heading into the playoffs. The mix of humor and determination in this team has made this an exciting season.

The Lynx are ready and remain focused, not feeling the pressure of what’s to come. They prefer to take it one game at a time, and I can’t wait to see how the playoff game against the Phoenix Mercury unfolds this Sunday at 4 PM.

 

Photo by Minnesota Lynx Social Media

 

 

Sep 20, 2024 No Comments
Lynx Fly High Defeating Chicago Sky 83-66

Lynx Fly High Defeating Chicago Sky 83-66

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by | Sep 14, 2024 | Featured, Minnesota Lynx, WNBA

Friday the 13th might be known for bad luck, but the Minnesota Lynx turned it into a night of triumph against the Chicago Sky. Despite a shaky start, where the Sky raced ahead with an 18-9 lead, the Lynx dug deep to mount a comeback at Target Center in Minneapolis, thrilling the home crowd.

Courtney Williams played a pivotal role in the turnaround with her 14-point, 10-assist double-double, showcasing both offensive leadership and defensive tenacity. She highlighted the team’s focus on adjusting defensively, saying, “We had to buckle down and protect the paint… they got it going in that first quarter, but we had to refresh, reset, and get it poppin’.” This shift in strategy allowed the Lynx to outscore Chicago by a decisive margin in the third quarter.

Alanna Smith was another standout, finishing with a season-high 12 rebounds along with 11 points, securing her second double-double of the season. Her impact in protecting the rim and battling for boards frustrated Chicago’s efforts to regain momentum. Smith’s contribution was crucial in maintaining control, as head coach Cheryl Reeve added, “We needed to look up, as they say, and battle and make it difficult, and Lan was ready for it. Sometimes you can do everything right and a player still scores. We just move on and control what we can control.”

By the time the final buzzer sounded, the Lynx had secured an 83-66 win, keeping them in second place in the WNBA standings. This victory also marked their 28th win of the season. The Lynx have now tied their franchise record for wins in a season, making a clear statement as the playoffs approach—Minnesota is not just a contender, they are a force to be reckoned with.

Photo by Bruce Kluckhohn

Sep 14, 2024 No Comments