Detroit, January 2, 2026
Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier will miss the entire 2026 Unrivaled season due to upcoming surgery on both ankles. Initially hopeful for a return, medical assessments confirmed the need for surgery after a series of ankle injuries. The WNBA Defensive Player of the Year faced significant setbacks during the previous season, highlighting the physical demands on athletes. Her absence will necessitate a team adjustment as the Lunar Owls prepare to compete without her. Collier remains committed to supporting her teammates and the growth of women’s basketball during her recovery.
NBA Star Napheesa Collier to Undergo Ankle Surgery
Injury sidelines notable athlete for upcoming women’s basketball season
DETROIT — The athletic world has been taken aback by the recent announcement that Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier will require surgery on both ankles, hindering her participation in the upcoming 2026 Unrivaled season. As an athlete who has made significant contributions to women’s basketball, her absence will be felt not just by her team but across the league.
Collier had initially expressed hope of returning for the Unrivaled league’s second season. However, following careful evaluations from a joint medical team, it was determined that surgical intervention was necessary. The decision underscores the importance of addressing injuries proactively and may also reflect positively on how support for athletes can lead to better outcomes, fostering resilience in sports.
Injury Background
The 2024 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year suffered a sprained right ankle during a competitive match against the Las Vegas Aces in August. This injury caused her to miss several weeks of gameplay. Just as she was recovering, she faced another setback when she injured her left ankle during an intense Game 3 of the WNBA semifinals against the Phoenix Mercury. The nature of such injuries highlights the physical demands placed on athletes today.
Impact on the Unrivaled Season
Collier’s surgery will keep her sidelined for an estimated four to six months. This timeline puts her out of play for the entire 2026 Unrivaled season, which begins shortly. In response to her absence, the league has appointed Temi Fágbénlé to fill her position on the Lunar Owls, ensuring that the team remains competitive despite the loss of one of its star players.
Collier’s Commitment to the Game
Future Implications for the WNBA Season
The timeline for Collier’s recovery will not only affect her participation in Unrivaled but may also influence her readiness for the start of the 2026 WNBA season. Depending on her rehabilitation progress, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring updates regarding her return to the court.
Conclusion
Napheesa Collier’s situation serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes face in maintaining peak performance. Her experience underscores the significance of injury management and the need for supportive measures within sports communities. As fans, let us rally around our athletes and continue to foster an environment that nurtures talent and resilience in women’s basketball.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What injuries did Napheesa Collier sustain during the 2025 WNBA season?
Napheesa Collier suffered a sprained right ankle during an August game against the Las Vegas Aces and injured her left ankle in Game 3 of the WNBA semifinals against the Phoenix Mercury.
How long is Napheesa Collier expected to be sidelined due to her ankle surgeries?
Napheesa Collier is expected to be sidelined for four to six months following surgery on both ankles.
Who will replace Napheesa Collier on the Lunar Owls for the 2026 Unrivaled season?
Temi Fágbénlé will take Napheesa Collier’s spot on the Lunar Owls for the 2026 Unrivaled season.
How might Napheesa Collier’s recovery affect her availability for the 2026 WNBA season?
The timeline for Napheesa Collier’s recovery could potentially impact her availability for the start of the 2026 WNBA season, depending on her rehabilitation progress.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Injuries Sustained | Sprained right ankle in August; injured left ankle in September during WNBA playoffs |
| Expected Recovery Time | Four to six months |
| Impact on Unrivaled Season | Misses the 2026 Unrivaled season; Temi Fágbénlé replaces her on the Lunar Owls |
| Potential Impact on WNBA Season | Recovery timeline may affect availability for the start of the 2026 WNBA season |
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