Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx was recently awarded the title of WNBA Defensive Player of the Year in recognition of her outstanding performance during the season. This marks Collier’s first time receiving this prestigious award, which was determined through a vote by a panel of 67 national media members. She secured 36 votes, surpassing A’ja Wilson who came in second with 26 votes. The honor was well-deserved as Collier ranked highly in various defensive categories throughout the season.
Collier’s impressive statistics included ranking second in the league for steals per game with 1.91, fourth in defensive rebounds per game at 7.5, and seventh in blocks per game with 1.41. Furthermore, she achieved career-high numbers in both defensive rebounds and blocks, showcasing her dedication and skill on the court. Her contributions were instrumental in helping the Lynx secure the second-best record in the league with a notable 30-10 standing.
In addition to Collier’s accolade, Cheryl Reeve, the head coach of the Minnesota Lynx, was also honored for her exceptional leadership by being named the WNBA Coach of the Year. This prestigious award was bestowed upon Reeve for an unprecedented fourth time, setting a new record in the league. Reeve received an overwhelming 62 out of 67 votes from the media panel, highlighting her significant impact on the team’s success throughout the season.
Reeve’s exceptional coaching abilities were further recognized as she was also awarded the title of WNBA Basketball Executive of the Year for the second time. Her dual recognition in coaching and basketball executive roles underscores her versatility and expertise within the league. By clinching both awards, Reeve solidified her position as one of the most accomplished and respected figures in the WNBA.
With this latest achievement, Reeve surpasses esteemed coaches such as Van Chancellor and Mike Thibault, who had previously won the Coach of the Year title three times each. Reeve’s prior wins in 2011, 2016, and 2020, along with her recent accolades, reflect her enduring impact and influence on the sport of women’s basketball. Her dedication and commitment to the game continue to inspire both players and fans alike, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in the WNBA.
