The Minnesota Lynx secured a hard-fought win over the Phoenix Mercury, but the spotlight quickly shifted to star forward Napheesa Collier after she exited the game with an apparent ankle injury in the third quarter. Collier, who has been leading the Lynx in scoring and rebounding this season, landed awkwardly after a contested layup and was helped off the court by trainers.
Despite Collier’s absence, Minnesota rallied behind Kayla McBride and Alanna Smith, who combined for 36 points to seal the victory. The Lynx defense tightened in the final minutes, holding the Mercury to just points in the fourth quarter and preserving a 78-71 win.
Minnesota, now 30-10 on the season, remains in a tight race for the top seed in the Western Conference. The team’s postseason hopes, however, may hinge on the severity of Collier’s injury. Head coach Cheryl Reeve stated postgame that Collier will undergo further evaluation, with an update expected before the next matchup.
Fans and teammates alike are anxiously awaiting news, knowing Collier’s presence is critical as the Lynx chase another deep playoff run.
