Napheesa Collier and her Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve are gearing up to compete against each other in the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game. This event, scheduled for July 19 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, promises an intense showdown between these familiar rivals. The Napheesa Collier WNBA All-Star Game matchup is drawing significant attention due to both individuals’ outstanding performances this season.
Strong Performances Secure Coaching and Captain Roles
Cheryl Reeve earned her coaching position by leading the Minnesota Lynx to a dominant 15-2 record. The team recently cemented their top league standing with a 92-75 victory over the Washington Mystics, where Collier played a crucial role by scoring 28 points. Alongside Reeve, Sandy Brondello of the New York Liberty secured the second All-Star coach position after steering her team to a 12-5 record.
Napheesa Collier claimed one of the two All-Star captain spots, finishing just behind Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark in the public vote. According to league rules, the coach of the best team leads the All-Star team associated with the player who received the highest votes. Consequently, Reeve will coach Team Clark, while Brondello will handle Team Collier, setting the stage for the player-coach battle.
Experienced Coaches Bring Depth and Strategy to Teams
Cheryl Reeve brings a wealth of experience to the All-Star coaching role, having coached Team USA during their successful run toward a gold medal at the Paris Olympics. Her leadership skills are expected to be a defining factor for Team Clark’s performance in this year’s game. Meanwhile, Brondello, who led the New York Liberty to a 3-2 win over Minnesota in the 2024 WNBA Finals, will guide Team Collier, hoping to leverage her recent championship experience.
Excitement and Anticipation Grow Around the Event
Fans and players alike are eager for the WNBA All-Star Game, eager to witness the clash between players and coaches who have shared deep connections throughout the season. The contest highlights individual skill yet fosters teamwork and competitive spirit, crucial elements that define the league today. Both Collier and Reeve underscore this dynamic with their careers intertwined as player and coach.
The event’s significance extends beyond a mere exhibition match—it serves as a celebration of basketball excellence and a reminder of the growing prominence of the WNBA on the national sports stage. With both teams led by seasoned coaches and captains, this game is expected to deliver thrilling basketball and strategic plays.
“The matchup between Napheesa Collier and coach Cheryl Reeve makes this All-Star Game especially compelling, reflecting the deep bonds and competition within the league.”
—Anonymous Analyst
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is the boyfriend of Napheesa Collier?
A. Collier and Bazzell met when Collier was a high school student. Both loved basketball. Bazzell, an athlete trainer, started working with her when she joined UConn. Later, their relationship became romantic, and they got engaged in 2019 during Collier’s junior year at UConn.
Q. Who is dating Napheesa Collier?
A. After Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, Alex Bazzell, who is married to Minnesota Lynx’s star Napheesa Collier, shared his excitement on X.
Q. Why is Napheesa Collier out?
A. They were missing their top player, Napheesa Collier, considered a leading WNBA MVP candidate since the 2025 season is about one-third completed. On Friday, she was uncertain to play against the Dream in Atlanta due to a back injury that had already sidelined her for two games.
Q. Is Napheesa Collier good?
A. Collier is the top player in the WNBA for efficiency with a score of 28.9. She also ranks third in rebounds with 8.5 per game. Moreover, she is fourth in blocks averaging 1.5 per game and fifth in steals with 1.8 per game. Additionally, she is seventh in field goal percentage at 52.5%.