Lynx’s Napheesa Collier Injured in Dominant Win Over Aces

The Minnesota Lynx showcased their dominance on the court in Las Vegas with a staggering 111-58 victory against the Aces, marking the largest margin of victory on the road in WNBA history. However, the triumph was marred by an unfortunate injury to star forward Napheesa Collier, who is also a frontrunner for the league’s MVP award.

The event unfolded late in the third quarter when Collier suffered a concerning ankle injury. As the Lynx were on the verge of extending their already commanding 43-point lead, a fastbreak opportunity led to a layup attempt by teammate Natisha Hiedeman. The shot missed, and in the chaotic aftermath, Collier inadvertently stepped on Alanna Smith’s foot, resulting in a severe roll of her right ankle.

Witnesses described the scene as Collier immediately crumpled to the floor in visible pain, prompting the Lynx coaching staff to call a timeout. Teammates Jessica Shepard and A’ja Wilson from the Aces rushed to assist her, but the pain proved too intense for her to stand. CBS Sports reported that Collier remained on the court until the athletic trainer arrived and eventually managed to get to her feet, albeit with considerable difficulty. She was escorted off the court and did not return for the remainder of the game.

While the Lynx celebrated their historic win, the focus quickly shifted to the severity of Collier’s injury, which could have significant implications for the team’s future performance and their playoff aspirations. The 2025 season has been pivotal for Collier, who has emerged as a leading candidate for MVP honors thanks to her exceptional play. Her absence, if prolonged, could create a substantial void for the Lynx.

In a season where every win counts, the Lynx have relied heavily on Collier’s scoring and leadership. Her ability to drive the offense and provide defensive support has been crucial for the team, which is currently eyeing a deep playoff run. Analysts are now left to ponder the potential impact of her injury on the Lynx’s trajectory for the remainder of the season.

The Lynx are scheduled to face several challenging matchups in the coming weeks, and the team will be closely monitoring Collier’s recovery. Fans and analysts alike await updates on her condition, as her health will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the Lynx’s postseason prospects.

As reported by CBS Sports, the Lynx will need to rally together and adapt if they are to maintain their current momentum without their star player. The basketball community will be watching closely as the situation develops, hoping for a swift recovery for one of the league’s brightest talents.