Napheesa Collier's Return Delayed to June After Ankle Surgeries

Napheesa Collier will miss the start of the Minnesota Lynx season. She had two ankle surgeries, with her return now planned for early June.

Napheesa Collier, a key player for the Minnesota Lynx, faces a continued absence from on-court activities until at least early June. The team announced Tuesday that the forward underwent successful surgery on her left ankle on March 24, following an earlier procedure on her right ankle in early January.

Collier's rehabilitation is progressing as expected, with the team targeting an early June return to basketball activities. This timeline marks her second major surgery of the offseason, after tearing three ligaments in her left ankle during the previous season's playoffs. She had initially missed three weeks of the regular season due to the right ankle injury.

Team's Offseason Reshuffle Continues

Collier's extended absence arrives as the Lynx navigate a significantly altered roster for the upcoming 2026 season. Several players, including Alanna Smith, Bridget Carleton, Jessica Shepard, Natisha Hiedeman, and DiJonai Carrington, have departed for new teams. The team has, however, retained established guards Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams, with Williams reportedly signing a two-year max contract.

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The Lynx officially opened their training camp on Monday. Their season is slated to commence on Sunday, May 10, against an unspecified opponent. The team has offered no further comment on Collier's progress beyond the initial statement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will Napheesa Collier return to the Minnesota Lynx after her ankle surgeries?
Napheesa Collier is expected to return to basketball activities in early June. She underwent surgery on her left ankle on March 24, after an earlier procedure on her right ankle in early January.
Q: Why is Napheesa Collier having ankle surgeries?
Napheesa Collier had two ankle surgeries to address injuries. She had a procedure on her right ankle in early January and on her left ankle on March 24. This follows a previous injury during the last season's playoffs.
Q: Will Napheesa Collier play at the start of the Minnesota Lynx's 2026 season?
No, Napheesa Collier will not play at the start of the Minnesota Lynx's 2026 season. Her return is targeted for early June, after completing rehabilitation from two ankle surgeries.
Q: What is the Minnesota Lynx's season start date?
The Minnesota Lynx's season is scheduled to begin on Sunday, May 10. However, Napheesa Collier will not be available for the season opener due to her recovery timeline.