The Minnesota Lynx have secured a cornerstone piece for their championship aspirations, re-signing five-time All-Star forward Napheesa Collier. The team announced the move Thursday night, ensuring the league's elite talent remains in the Twin Cities.
While the Lynx did not disclose contract details, ESPN reports Collier has signed a one-year, $1.4 million supermax deal. This major commitment comes on the heels of the Las Vegas Aces re-signing reigning MVP A’ja Wilson, highlighting a competitive offseason where franchises are locking down their superstars.
The investment is a no-brainer. Collier is coming off a historic 2024 campaign, averaging a career-high 22.9 points per game. She achieved a remarkable shooting feat, becoming the first player in WNBA history to post a 50/40/90 shooting split (field goal/three-point/free throw percentage) while averaging over 20 points. This phenomenal performance placed her second in MVP voting for the second consecutive year, narrowly behind Wilson.
"Phee has been such an integral part of the Lynx since she was drafted in 2019," said head coach and president of basketball operations Cheryl Reeve. "Coming off a historic 50/40/90 season and guiding the Lynx to the most wins in franchise history, Phee is hungry to position the Lynx for a championship run."
That run was tragically cut short last season. After leading Minnesota to a league-best 34-10 record and the top playoff seed, Collier suffered a left ankle injury in the semifinals, sidelining her as the Lynx fell to the Phoenix Mercury.
Now fully healthy, the 29-year-old star returns with unfinished business. A two-time Olympic gold medalist and the 2019 Rookie of the Year, Collier already ranks among the Lynx greats in steals, scoring average, and blocked shots. Her all-around dominance on both ends of the floor makes her the engine of a team poised for another title challenge.
