Minnesota Lynx’s Napheesa Collier to Undergo Surgery, Miss Unrivaled Season
Napheesa Collier, the standout player of the Minnesota Lynx, has announced that she will undergo surgery due to ongoing injuries. This will prevent her from participating in the upcoming Unrivaled season of the 3-on-3 basketball league she helped cofound.
Napheesa Collier’s Surgery Announcement
On Thursday, Collier shared her news on Instagram, expressing her heartfelt disappointment. “I am heartbroken to share that I will miss this Unrivaled season,” she wrote. She acknowledged her efforts to return to the game but has been advised by her medical team that surgery is necessary for her recovery.
Injuries Sustained
While specific details about the surgical procedure remain undisclosed, it is known that Collier has faced injury challenges over the past WNBA season. Key points include:
- Collier suffered a left ankle injury during the WNBA semifinals.
- Later, she missed several games due to an injured right ankle.
- Despite these setbacks, she was recognized as a top player, finishing second in MVP voting and earning a spot on the All-WNBA First Team.
Impact on Future Seasons
The impact of her surgery on Collier’s availability for the upcoming WNBA season remains uncertain. The 2026 league schedule has yet to be released. Currently, negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement between the league and players are ongoing.
Last season, the Lynx began their campaign on May 16. Notably, Collier was also named MVP of the Unrivaled league last year, underscoring her significance in competitive basketball.