Lynx star Napheesa Collier returns with 20-point double-double
Napheesa Collier marked her return to the Minnesota Lynx lineup with a dominant performance, recording a 24-point, 10-rebound double-double in an 86-76 victory against the Seattle Storm. Collier, who had not played since late September due to double ankle surgery, needed only 22 minutes to impact the game. This marks the fourth time in her career she has scored at least 20 points in a season debut.
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve managed Collier’s minutes, using shorter rotations to help her transition back to professional play after months of rehabilitation. Despite starting cold with a 1-of-7 shooting performance in the first quarter, Collier found her rhythm by the second period, contributing 11 points in 11 minutes. Her return comes as the Lynx hold the best record in the league at 22-6.
Teammates Kayla McBride and Olivia Miles provided steady production alongside Collier. McBride extended her streak to eight consecutive 20-point games, while Miles added 13 points and six assists. The team now enters the All-Star break, giving Collier five days of recovery before the schedule resumes next Tuesday.
Collier expressed relief and excitement about being back on the court, describing the experience as long-awaited after months of physical therapy. Coach Reeve stated that this game serves as the next step in a longer recovery process, noting that Collier still has work to do to regain her full conditioning. The team remains focused on maintaining its top position in the standings as the second half of the season approaches.