WNBA4 hours ago2 minute read

Will Napheesa Collier Stay? Lynx Star Undecided on Free Agency

Following a shocking playoff exit, Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier says she has not yet thought about her upcoming free agency.

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A Tough End to the Season

The Minnesota Lynx are dealing with a historic playoff loss, and now they face major questions about their franchise star. Napheesa Collier is entering free agency, and she admits she does not know what her future holds.

The Lynx became the first 1-seed in WNBA history to lose to an 8-seed in the playoffs. They were swept in two games by the New York Liberty.

Speaking less than 48 hours after the final game, Collier said she has not had time to decompress. "Honestly, I haven't even thought about my future," she said. She added that she loves the organization and her teammates, but she has not given her next steps any thought.

Coming Off a Tough Year

Collier rejected a multiyear contract last summer, opting instead for a one-year deal. That choice makes her one of the most desired players on the market.

It was a challenging season for the five-time All-Star. She returned on July 22 after undergoing multiple ankle surgeries during the offseason. She averaged 16.8 points and 6.9 rebounds per game this year. In her previous three seasons, she averaged at least 20 points and seven rebounds.

Collier acknowledged she was not at her best but said she gave everything she could. Coach Cheryl Reeve agreed, noting that everyone could see Collier was not playing at her usual level.

A Big Decision for the Franchise

If Collier decides to leave, the Lynx will have to rebuild. She has been the centerpiece of the team since she was drafted sixth overall in 2019. She helped lead Minnesota to the WNBA Finals in 2024, where they fell to the Liberty.

Coach Reeve remains hopeful but understands that Collier has a personal decision to make. Reeve noted that the star signed a one-year deal for a reason and said the team will be okay regardless of her choice.

If Collier moves on, she will join a long list of local sports stars who left Minnesota before winning championships elsewhere. For now, she is simply thanking the fans who have supported her throughout her eight years with the franchise.

What it means for the next game

New York Liberty at Minnesota Lynx (WNBA, Thu, 01 Oct): Minnesota Lynx win 52%, New York Liberty win 48%; projected score Minnesota Lynx 90, New York Liberty 89. Our safest pick: Liberty +8.5.