SAINT PAUL, MN – The Minnesota Lynx, spearheaded by their dynamic forward Napheesa Collier, are poised to be a significant force in the upcoming 2025 WNBA season. Collier’s stellar 2024 campaign, where she showcased her exceptional two-way prowess, has fueled expectations for the team. Meanwhile, the league landscape is already taking shape with ESPN’s release of their top 25 players.

Reigning MVP A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces sits atop the list, followed closely by Collier at number two. Rounding out the top five are Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty) at three, Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark at four, and Alyssa Thomas (Connecticut Sun) at five. Clark’s placement in the top five heading into just her second WNBA season underscores the significant impact she made as a rookie and the high expectations surrounding her future in the league.

Napheesa Collier’s 2024 regular season statistics paint the picture of a player operating at an elite level on both ends of the court. Offensively, she poured in 20.4 points per game, ranking fourth in the WNBA, while also grabbing a robust 9.7 rebounds per contest, good for third in the league. Her playmaking was evident in her 3.4 assists per game.

However, it was Collier’s defensive impact that truly set her apart. She averaged an impressive 1.9 steals per game, placing her second in the WNBA, and swatted away 1.4 shots per game, ranking fifth. This dominant two-way play was recognized with the Defensive Player of the Year award, and she narrowly missed out on the MVP trophy, finishing as the runner-up.

Collier carried her exceptional form into the postseason, leading the Lynx to the WNBA Finals. While specific finals statistics aren’t detailed here, her playoff performance was nothing short of remarkable. She tied the WNBA playoff single-game scoring record with a blistering 42-point outburst against the Phoenix Mercury. 

Across 12 playoff games, Collier averaged 23.8 points, 9.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.1 steals, and 1.9 blocks, demonstrating her consistent ability to impact every facet of the game. Even in the final, despite an untimely foul-out in overtime, she contributed 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks.

Widely considered one of the premier two-way players in the WNBA, Collier’s ability to score, rebound, create for others, and disrupt opponents on defense makes her an invaluable asset for the Lynx as they aim for championship contention in 2025. 

Even bookmakers have taken notice, listing Collier at +350 to bring home the WNBA MVP award next season, placing her third in the league’s odds.

The Lynx are set to tip off their 2025 campaign against the Dallas Wings on May 16th, and all eyes will be on Napheesa Collier as she looks to build upon her stellar 2024 season and lead Minnesota back to the pinnacle of the WNBA.