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Minnesota star Napheesa Collier returns to Lynx practice

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MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota — Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier has returned to team practice as she continues rehabilitation from offseason surgery on both ankles, bringing her closer to a 2026 season debut. The Lynx said Wednesday that Collier is progressing as expected after undergoing the procedure on March 24. The team’s next game is Friday on the road against the New York Liberty, and the return to practice marks another step forward in her recovery timetable, though the team has not announced a specific date for her first appearance of the season. Collier, a five-time All-Star and the sixth overall pick by the Lynx in the 2019 draft, is playing this year on a one-year WNBA supermax contract that will allow her to become an unrestricted free agent in 2027. She averaged a career-high 22.9 points per game last season while shooting 53.1% from the field, 40.3% from 3-point range and 90.6% from the free-throw line, becoming the first player in league history to post 50/40/90 shooting splits while averaging at least 20 points. Collier finished second to A’ja Wilson in MVP voting in each of the last two seasons, won Defensive Player of the Year in 2024, and injured her left ankle in Game 3 of the 2025 WNBA semifinals against Phoenix, a series the No. 1 seed Lynx lost in five games. Minnesota has opened this season with a league-leading 15-4 record behind rookie guard Olivia Miles, the second overall pick in the draft.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2019 Lynx draft Collier sixth overall
2024 Collier wins Defensive Player award
2024 Season Collier averages 22.9 points
2025 Game 3 semifinals left ankle injury
2025 Semifinals Lynx lose in five
March 24 2026 undergoes double ankle surgery
Wednesday Team announces Collier returns to practice
This season Lynx start league-best 15-4

Why This Matters to You

Napheesa Collier's return is a big win for Lynx fans. Her scoring and defense have been key to the team's success. If you're a fan, her recovery could mean a stronger Lynx performance. Keep an eye on Friday's game against the New York Liberty.

The Bottom Line

Collier's return to practice is a positive sign, but her season debut date is still unknown. Her past performance suggests she's worth the wait. If you're a basketball fan, this is a story to watch. Send this to someone who loves a good comeback.