At the Target Center on May 24, 2025, the Minnesota Lynx completed a dramatic 15-point comeback in the fourth quarter to secure their fourth consecutive win, led by standout player Napheesa Collier. Despite the thrilling victory, Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve expressed disappointment with the team‘s defensive performance, emphasizing that their success must come from stronger defense rather than relying solely on offense.
How Napheesa Collier Fueled the Lynx’s Late-Game Rally
The Minnesota Lynx found themselves trailing the Connecticut Sun by as much as 11 points early on, and the lead remained in double digits well into the final quarter. Facing adversity, the Lynx required a decisive spark to overturn the deficit, and team captain Napheesa Collier provided exactly that. Collier dominated the offensive charts with 33 points in total, including 7 crucial points in the final quarter during a remarkable 23-2 run that dismantled the Sun’s advantage and sealed the win for Minnesota.
Both teams matched each other offensively throughout the game, but it was Minnesota’s defense that ultimately shifted momentum. The Lynx forced 23 turnovers, translating into 18 points, yet despite these numbers, Cheryl Reeve remained critical of her squad’s defensive focus.
Cheryl Reeve’s Unsparing Assessment of the Team’s Defense
Coach Reeve voiced her dissatisfaction with how the Lynx defended for much of the game, stressing that they showed commitment on defense for only a fraction of the time. She stated,
I’d say of the 40 minutes, we played five of them defensively. You know, we had some other kind of like solid stretches, but not enough to really do the dictating.
She added,
And so I think that light bulb has to go on. And if the last five minutes of the game is that light bulb, that would be great.
This candid critique reflects Reeve’s championship mindset, which demands consistent intensity rather than sporadic effort.
Reeve further explained the risks of lax defense, warning her team about the dangers of allowing opponents to control the game tempo. She explained,
If we go back, you know, sort of the other way and just let them do whatever they want to do and not be mindful of what our help should look like or, you know, not get a rebound, then it’s going to be hard.
She continued,
Then you have to have an offensive game that’s terrific to win. And that’s not a space we want to be in.
While Collier’s scoring prowess provides Minnesota with a potent offensive weapon, Reeve insists that the Lynx must emphasize their defense to become true championship contenders. Having captured four WNBA titles as a coach, Reeve understands that defense is the foundation of a winning team, as demonstrated by the Lynx’s strong defensive performances last season that brought them close to a historic fifth championship.
The Defensive Culture Instilled by Cheryl Reeve
Cheryl Reeve’s coaching philosophy prioritizes relentless defensive effort as essential to team success. Her defensive schemes demand that players maintain aggressive pressure and adaptability throughout the game. A cardinal rule under Reeve’s guidance is
finishing the play with a rebound.
This mindset ensures that even if an opponent executes a good offensive possession, the Lynx’s ability to grab rebounds resets defensive control and limits second-chance opportunities.
Reeve’s approach is not rigid but highly versatile; her team frequently adjusts defensive tactics based on the opponent’s style, requiring players to guard multiple positions effectively. Her role as President of Basketball Operations allows her to shape the roster with this defensive identity in mind, demonstrated by signings such as Courtney Williams and Alanna Smith, who contribute defensive versatility alongside Napheesa Collier, the 2024 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year.
Under Reeve, Minnesota applies intense perimeter pressure, challenging ball handlers and cutting off easy passes. Despite their aggression, the Lynx are disciplined in rotations and closeouts, making it difficult for opponents to find uncontested shots, especially from beyond the arc. Additionally, their commitment to crashing the defensive glass disrupts opponents’ transition opportunities, further highlighting their defensive dominance.
Statistical Evidence of the Lynx’s Defensive Strength
In the 2024 WNBA season, the Lynx showcased remarkable defensive performance, finishing second in defensive rating with a 94.8 mark and ranking second in steals per game. Their defensive prowess is emphasized by their league-leading opponents’ field goal percentage, reflecting effective contesting and disruption. Furthermore, a survey of WNBA general managers ahead of the 2025 season revealed that 73% picked Minnesota as the league’s best defensive team.
Despite tonight’s defensive shortcomings, Reeve’s optimism stems from the team’s rapid progress from previous seasons. She highlighted this improvement enthusiastically:
I think you guys should all write about how we went from a team that could not turn a team over last season and now we have a team number one in steals,
she remarked. This dramatic transformation underscores why she remains insistent that the Lynx build their identity on defense rather than relying on offense alone.
Balancing Offense and Defense for Sustained Success
The recent game raises an ongoing question about the Lynx’s reliance on offensive talents like Collier versus their defensive standards. While offensive firepower can turn the tide in close games, Reeve’s message is clear: sustainable championship success depends on a dominant, disciplined defense.
The Minnesota Lynx’s outlook remains hopeful as they aim to continue their unbeaten season start, but they recognize that maintaining defensive intensity throughout the entire game is imperative. Coach Reeve’s insistence on a strong defensive foundation may well be the key factor that propels the Lynx towards achieving history, potentially making her the most decorated head coach in the WNBA.