Napheesa Collier of Minnesota Lynx to Miss Time with Ankle Injury

Napheesa Collier, forward for the Minnesota Lynx, will miss upcoming games after suffering a right ankle sprain during Saturday's match against the Las Vegas Aces. The team confirmed the injury on Monday, though the duration of her absence remains uncertain.

Following an MRI at Mayo Clinic Square in Minneapolis, the Lynx released a statement indicating that Collier will be "reevaluated in the coming weeks."

The incident occurred late in the third quarter when Collier appeared to step on teammate Alanna Smith's foot, leading to her immediate fall near the Aces' bench while the Lynx held a commanding 92-49 lead.

Despite her efforts to rise, she quickly sat back down, visibly in pain. Aces players A'ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young, NaLyssa Smith, and Kierstan Bell quickly surrounded her, using towels to shield her from view.

Coaches and trainers from the Lynx soon arrived to assist the 2025 All-Star MVP.

In a separate announcement, the WNBA recognized Collier as the Western Conference Player of the Month for July.

The Lynx, currently holding a 24-5 record, face three games this week, including a rematch of last year's WNBA Finals against the New York Liberty on Sunday. The Liberty are also dealing with injury setbacks, as Breanna Stewart is sidelined for several weeks due to a bone bruise in her right knee.

With a 5 1/2 game lead over New York in the standings, the Lynx aim to maintain their position as they navigate this challenging period without their star player.