Napheesa Collier made a spectacular return from a seven-game injury layoff, scoring 32 points and securing nine rebounds to lead the Minnesota Lynx to a decisive 97-84 victory over the Indiana Fever on Sunday night.
Napheesa Collier, a key player for the Minnesota Lynx and a strong MVP contender before her injury, was the star of the game. She was ably supported by Courtney Williams, who contributed 14 points and 10 assists without any turnovers, and Kayla McBride and Maria Kliundikova, each scoring 13 points. On the Indiana side, Kelsey Mitchell led with 26 points, Shey Peddy added a season-high 16 points, and Aliyah Boston had 14 points, but the team was hampered by injuries.
Collier’s return was marked by efficient shooting, going 11 for 19 from the field, and she was instrumental in both scoring and rebounding. The Lynx displayed excellent team performance, shooting 57.1% from the field and from three-point range, and making 13 of 14 free throws, showcasing their offensive prowess.
The match took place on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was attended by 15,124 spectators and broadcast on CBSSN.
Collier had been sidelined since August 2 with a right ankle injury, which occurred during a game against the Las Vegas Aces. Her absence was a significant blow to the Lynx, as she was leading the MVP race, and her return was crucial for the team’s championship aspirations.
Minnesota gained control of the game with an 11-0 run to close the second quarter, during which Kliundikova scored or assisted on every point. Collier then hit a short jumper and a three-pointer early in the third quarter to push the lead to 12 points, and the Fever never recovered, trailing by at least nine points thereafter.
With this win, the Lynx improved their record to 30-7, maintaining their dominance in the Western Conference. The Fever fell to 19-18, and their playoff hopes are challenged by ongoing injuries, including Caitlin Clark’s groin issue that has kept her out for 15 straight games and 24 total this season. Additionally, the Fever had to sign Shey Peddy and Aerial Powers to hardship contracts due to Sophie Cunningham’s season-ending knee injury.
Looking ahead, the Indiana Fever will host the Seattle Storm on Tuesday, August 26, in a critical game for their playoff chances. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Lynx will face the Seattle Storm at home on Thursday, August 28, as they continue to secure their top seed for the playoffs.