Lynx Legends Assemble: WNBA Powerhouse Adds Familiar Faces to Coaching Staff
The Minnesota Lynx are reloading for another championship run, making a splash in the offseason with two significant additions to their coaching staff. WNBA legend Lindsay Whalen and former Washington Mystics head coach Eric Thibault have joined head coach Cheryl Reeve, creating a powerhouse team of basketball minds.
"We worked hard to put our best foot forward for [our players] because we continue to have big goals for this group," Reeve told ESPN. "I think this staff is well-positioned to help us get there."
Whalen, who steered the Lynx to four WNBA championships during her playing days, returns to the franchise after coaching at her alma mater, the University of Minnesota. This time, she’ll provide her experience and insight from the sidelines.
“It just feels like it’s time to get back, work hard, and be part of a team and a group,” Whalen said. “It just all felt like the timing was really right.”
Thibault, a seasoned coach with over a decade of experience in the WNBA, joins the Lynx after serving as the head coach of the Mystics for the past two seasons.
"You want to make sure you’re aligned where you are, and that wasn’t really the case anymore," Thibault told ESPN about his departure from Washington. “I’ve got no ill feelings whatsoever towards D.C. … I feel a lot of gratitude towards Minnesota now."
Reeve sees both additions as invaluable assets.
“I think this group’s [success] will be defined by player development and both Lindsay and Eric have terrific experience in that area. They’re both tremendous teachers of the game," Reeve said.
This coaching trifecta brings a wealth of experience and winning pedigree to the Lynx organization. Whalen and Thibault, who have familial ties to legendary coach Mike Thibault, will bring their shared history and coaching philosophies to help build upon the strong foundation Reeve has laid.
After making a surprise run to the WNBA Finals last season, led by superstar Napheesa Collier, these coaching additions signal the Lynx’s continued commitment to competing for championships.
"I think having me will really help her take hopefully another step this year into continuing to lead the team and be a successful point guard for the franchise," Whalen said about her work with Collier.
Reeve is confident that this coaching trio will propel the Lynx back to the top of the WNBA, adding exciting new wrinkles to an already formidable team.
## Lynx Legends Assemble: A Coaching Dream Team in Minnesota
**World Today News: Sarah Williams interviews Lynx Head Coach Cheryl Reeve.**
**Sarah williams:** coach Reeve, congratulations on the incredible additions to your coaching staff this off-season! Bringing in both Lindsay whalen and Eric thibault is a true statement of intent. What were your goals in building this coaching powerhouse?
**Cheryl Reeve:** Thank you, Sarah. I’m incredibly excited about the talent and experience we’ve added. Our goals were twofold: to ensure we remain competitive at the highest level and to create an environment where our players can thrive both on and off the court.
Lindsay and Eric bring unique perspectives and a wealth of knowledge. Lindsay is a Lynx legend, understands our culture, and possesses an unmatched competitive fire.Eric’s experience as a head coach in this league and his coaching pedigree are invaluable.
**Sarah Williams:** lindsay Whalen is a beloved figure in Minnesota, having already impacted the franchise as a player. What specific qualities will she bring to the coaching staff?
**Cheryl Reeve:** Lindsay understands the Lynx way, our DNA. She knows what it takes to win championships here. But she’s also a brilliant basketball mind, a leader who can connect with players and inspire them. She’ll be instrumental in player growth, particularly for our guards.
**Sarah Williams:** Eric Thibault brings a lot of experience from his time with the Washington Mystics.How do you anticipate his strategies and experience melding with your own coaching style?
**Cheryl Reeve:** eric’s offensive creativity and ability to get the best out of his players is something I admire greatly.We’ve had many great battles over the years, and I’ve always respected his basketball acumen.
We’ll collaborate closely, sharing ideas and building on each other’s strengths. This isn’t about ego. It’s about combining our collective expertise to create the most effective environment for our players.
**Sarah Williams:** This coaching staff is brimming with championship-winning experience. With so much knowledge in one room,do you anticipate a shift in the Lynx’s playing style or approach?
**Cheryl Reeve:** we’ve always been a team focused on defense and team-oriented basketball. That won’t change. But with the addition of Lindsay and Eric, we’ll likely see some evolution in our offensive schemes and player development.
We want to empower our players, give them the tools to succeed, and expand their offensive capabilities.
**Sarah Williams:** This off-season has been a period of significant change for the Lynx. How confident are you heading into the new season with this revamped coaching staff and the roster you have assembled?
**Cheryl Reeve:** I’m extremely confident. This is a group that’s hungry to win, a group unified in their goals.
The Lynx have a rich history of success, and we’re committed to continuing that tradition. With this coaching staff and our talented roster, I believe we’re positioned to make another run at a championship.
