Lynx Coach Reeve Crowned WNBA Coach of the Year After Stellar Season!

Cheryl Reeve, the esteemed coach of the Minnesota Lynx, has once again etched her name into WNBA history, receiving her record-extending fifth WNBA Coach of the Year award. This prestigious recognition comes after she masterfully guided the Lynx to an impressive 33-11 regular-season record, securing the coveted No. 1 overall seed heading into the playoffs. In her 17th season at the helm of Minnesota's franchise, Reeve was chosen over two other highly regarded candidates: Natalie Nakase of the Golden State Valkyries and Sydney Johnson of the Washington Mystics, whose nominations were announced on Monday.

Reeve's leadership proved particularly vital as the Lynx concluded the season a game ahead of the 32-12 Valkyries, a remarkable feat considering the team navigated the first half of the season without star forward Napheesa Collier. Collier was sidelined while recovering from offseason surgery on both of her ankles, highlighting Reeve's ability to adapt and maintain a high level of performance despite significant roster challenges. Beyond her coaching duties, Reeve also holds the influential position of president of basketball operations for the club, showcasing her comprehensive involvement in the team's success.

This latest accolade adds to an already illustrious career for Reeve, who previously earned the Coach of the Year honor in 2011, 2016, 2020, and 2024. Her coaching prowess has also led the Minnesota Lynx to four WNBA championships, with titles secured in 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017, solidifying her legacy as one of the league's most successful coaches. In the voting process for this year's award, Reeve garnered a significant majority, receiving 40 out of 74 votes from the media panel. Natalie Nakase, who was the recipient of the award last year, finished in second place with 20 votes, while Sydney Johnson placed third with 14 votes.