Napheesa Collier makes explosive season debut for Minnesota Lynx vs Seattle Storm after lengthy ankle recovery

Napheesa Collier made her 2026 WNBA season debut for the Minnesota Lynx on Wednesday against the Seattle Storm after recovering from surgeries on both ankles.

Collier underwent right ankle surgery in January and left ankle surgery on March 24 following ligament tears during the 2025 playoffs.

She operated under a minutes restriction set by head coach Cheryl Reeve, scoring efficiently including a corner three in the second half.

Collier had not played competitive basketball since September 2025 and returned to full team practices on July 1.

The Lynx held the best WNBA record at 21-6 entering the game, with Reeve managing Collier's return to protect her long-term health.