Get ready for an exciting update on the Minnesota Lynx players as they embark on their offseason journeys!
The Lynx's Global Dominance
As the 2026 season kicks off, the Minnesota Lynx players are making their mark on courts worldwide. With 11 out of 12 Lynx players back in action, it's an impressive display of talent and versatility. However, there's a bittersweet note as Napheesa Collier, who was set to join Unrivaled, will miss the season due to ankle surgery.
Let's dive into the performances of these incredible athletes and explore their journeys across the globe.
Unrivaled Stars: Williams, Smith, and Hiedeman
Courtney Williams, a seasoned Unrivaled veteran, has joined Team Vinyl this season. Despite an inconsistent start offensively, Williams has shown her prowess in distribution and rebounding. Her recent game against the Breeze showcased her all-around skills, contributing six points, six rebounds, and six assists.
Alanna Smith, a Unrivaled rookie, is making her mark on home soil for the first time. Playing for The Mist, Smith has been a lockdown presence in the paint, contributing offensively and on the boards. However, she experienced a slight dip in playing time recently.
Natisha Hiedeman, a Unrivaled champion with the Rose last season, has joined the Hive this year. After a strong opening performance, Hiedeman has faced some challenges, struggling to find her offensive rhythm.
Overseas Adventures: McBride, Carleton, and More
Kayla McBride, a Turkish basketball powerhouse, has returned to Fenerbahçe, her second home. McBride has been a consistent two-way player, as evidenced by her recent near triple-double performance.
Bridget Carleton, the globetrotter, is exploring a new country this offseason - the Czech Republic. Carleton has been a versatile force, leaving her mark in both Czech Republic-ZBL and EuroLeague action. Her recent games against Charleville-Mezieres and Slovanka showcased her deep-range shooting and all-around skills.
Jessica Shepard, another international star, is playing in Italy for Famila Schio. Shepard has been dominating the boards and putting up impressive offensive numbers. Her recent games against Bourges and Brescia highlight her double-double capabilities.
European Excels: Kliundikova, Juhász, and Kosu
Maria Kliundikova, a midseason Lynx arrival, is back in her home country of Russia, playing for UMMC Yekateringburg alongside fellow Lynx player Anastasiia Olairi Kosu. Kliundikova has been a balanced contributor, impacting various areas of the game. Her recent game against Nika showcased her all-around skills.
Dorka Juhász, a Lynx player under contract through 2026, is spending her offseason in Turkey. Juhász has been a force on both ends of the court, as seen in her recent near double-double performance against Nesibe.
Anastasiia Olairi Kosu, a developing Lynx forward, is also in Russia this offseason. Kosu has started strongly, putting together well-balanced performances. Her recent game against Nika was a solid showing.
Developing Talent: Hirsch and Taylor
Maia Hirsch, a Lynx draft pick yet to make her WNBA debut, is continuing her development in France. After an inconsistent offseason last year, Hirsch is off to a promising start, as seen in her recent game against USK Praha.
Camryn Taylor, a late addition to the Lynx in 2025, has moved from Greece to France. Taylor had a slow start but has picked up the pace recently, with two straight double-digit outings. However, she hasn't appeared in any games since November 29.
Athletes Unlimited: Sherrod's Journey
While most Lynx players are competing globally, Jaylyn Sherrod will remain in the country to participate in Athletes Unlimited's fifth season. Sherrod will be one of 40 players in this fast-paced, full-court league, set to begin in early February in Nashville.
As we wrap up this week's update, stay tuned for more Lynx Offseason adventures! Don't miss out on the exciting journeys of these incredible athletes as they continue to make their mark on the basketball world.
