The Minnesota Lynx picked up their second straight win on Tuesday night, staying in the race to defend their Commissioner’s Cup title. But the 76-62 victory over the Las Vegas Aces came at a steep price. Star forward Napheesa Collier left the game in the third quarter with an injury and didn’t return.
What Happened to Napheesa Collier?
Collier exited early in the third quarter with an apparent back injury. She was seen grabbing her lower back as she walked to the locker room. The team later ruled her out for the rest of the night.
Before leaving the game, Collier had 7 points on 3-of-9 shooting, six rebounds, and an assist in 19 minutes of action.
Napheesa Collier was ruled out for the rest of tonight’s game vs. the Aces. She left in the third quarter, grabbing her back as she went to the locker room. pic.twitter.com/MJgkIgaLBo
— Dime (@DimeUPROXX) June 18, 2025
The Lynx haven’t yet revealed how serious the injury is, and it’s unclear if Collier will miss time, including Saturday’s key game against the Los Angeles Sparks.
Minnesota Lynx Win, But at a Cost
The Lynx are a top-tier team when Collier is healthy. Without her, things could shift quickly. Collier isn’t just Minnesota’s go-to player, she’s also been in the MVP conversation all season.
Last year’s runner-up for the league’s highest honor, Collier has been putting up massive numbers. Before Tuesday’s game, she was averaging 26.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game on elite shooting splits: 53.3% from the field, 44.4% from three, and 93% at the line.
Her two-way impact changes everything for the Lynx. If she’s out for any extended stretch, their Commissioner’s Cup and WNBA title hopes take a major hit.
Collier’s absence also shakes up the MVP race. With Caitlin Clark returning from a quad injury, this could give the phenom a chance to climb the leaderboard. A’ja Wilson, a three-time MVP, is always in the mix. Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart are also pushing hard for the award.
MORE: Caitlin Clark Promps Media To Focus on Basketball After Scuffle
Fans are now left hoping that Collier’s back injury is minor and won’t derail her stellar season or Minnesota’s.
There’s also big money on the line. The Commissioner’s Cup Final is set for July 1, with $500,000 up for grabs. If Collier can’t suit up, the Indiana Fever could sneak into the spotlight, especially now that their squad is healthy and clicking.
One thing is clear: with Collier’s status in question, the WNBA’s playoff picture just got a lot more interesting.
