WNBA Legend Lindsay Whalen Rejoins Minnesota Lynx as Assistant Coach
The Minnesota Lynx are thrilled to welcome back a familiar face to their coaching staff. Four-time WNBA champion Lindsay Whalen will join head coach Cheryl Reeve as an assistant coach, bringing her wealth of experience and winning mentality to the court.
Whalen, whose jersey number 13 is retired by both the Lynx and her alma mater, the University of Minnesota, is a legend in women’s basketball. She previously served as head coach for the Gophers from 2018-2021 before choosing to take a step back from coaching.
"I’m so excited to be back with the Lynx and back with Coach and Bekky [assistant coach Rebekkah Brunson]," Whalen said in a statement. “Eric and I have also known each other for a long time, and for me, I couldn’t imagine joining a better staff as I return to coaching and get my first opportunity to coach in the WNBA. We have a special group with this team and I can’t wait to get to work.”
This appointment comes after associate head coach Katie Smith, a former Lynx player and WNBA champion herself, left for her alma mater, Ohio State University, to join their coaching staff in November.
Whalen’s impressive career ushered in a golden era for the Lynx. After starting her WNBA journey with the Connecticut Sun, she joined Minnesota in 2010 and, alongside Reeve, led the Lynx to four championships in a dominant seven-year span.
The five-time WNBA All-Star finished her playing career with 480 regular-season games under her belt, racking up the second-most wins (323) in league history. Whalen also boasts 54 postseason wins, again settling for second place only to teammate Rebekkah Brunson’s record-breaking 57 wins.
With her impressive playing pedigree and passion for the game, Whalen’s return is sure to reinvigorate the Minnesota Lynx and excite fans for the upcoming season.
## WNBA Legend Lindsay Whalen Returns to Minnesota Lynx as Assistant coach
**The four-time WNBA champion joins Cheryl Reeve’s coaching staff,bringing a wealth of experiance and a winning mentality back to the franchise.**
The Minnesota Lynx are generating buzz with the appointment of WNBA legend Lindsay Whalen as assistant coach. Having previously led the University of Minnesota women’s basketball team,Whalen returns to the Lynx,the franchise she helped lead to four WNBA championships. To discuss this exciting progress and its implications for the team, we spoke with former WNBA player and current sports analyst, **Sue Bird**, and **Holly Rowe**, ESPN’s veteran sideline reporter for women’s basketball.
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### A Lynx Homecoming
**World-Today-News:** Sue, lindsay’s return to the Lynx has sparked huge excitement among fans. What are your thoughts on this appointment?
**Sue Bird:** It’s fantastic news for the Lynx and for women’s basketball in general.Lindsay’s basketball IQ and leadership qualities are undeniable, and she embodies the lynx spirit. she knows what it takes to win at the highest level, and that experience will be invaluable to the players.
**World-Today-News:** Holly, Lindsay played a pivotal role in the Lynx dynasty. How will her presence benefit the current squad?
**Holly Rowe:** lindsay’s championship pedigree is infectious. She understands the culture of winning that Cheryl Reeve has built, and she can instill that mentality in the younger players. Having someone who has been there and done that, who knows what it takes to win a championship, will be a huge asset to the team.
### Coaching Insights and Legacy
**World-Today-News:** Sue, Lindsay chose to step back from coaching after her time at the University of Minnesota. What do you think prompted her return to the sideline, specifically with the Lynx?
**Sue Bird:** I think the allure of the WNBA, and being part of the Lynx family again, was too strong to resist. She’s passionate about the game and helping young players develop. This chance allows her to do both while being part of a team she loves.
**World-Today-News:** holly, Lindsay is known for her competitive fire and intense playing style. how will that translate to her coaching?
**Holly rowe:** Lindsay’s intensity will be a driving force. She’ll push players to be their best,demand excellence,and foster a competitive habitat. But she’s also known for being a great communicator and a player’s coach, so she’ll find the balance between pushing her players and building strong relationships.
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Looking Ahead:
**World-Today-News:** Sue, Lindsay’s arrival comes after the departure of associate head coach Katie Smith. what impact will this coaching change have on the Lynx’s dynamic?
**Sue bird:** The transition will be smooth. Katie Smith leaves a significant legacy, but Lindsay brings a different viewpoint and playing experience. This coaching staff is still packed with talent and championship pedigree, so there’s there’s no doubt whatsoever they’ll continue to be a force in the league.
**World-Today-News: **Holly, with Lindsay’s return, are the Lynx poised for a championship resurgence?
**Holly Rowe:** Absolutely. The Lynx are always contenders, and Lindsay’s addition only strengthens their position. Their veteran leadership combined with young talent makes them a serious threat. Don’t be surprised to see them back in the WNBA Finals competing for another title.
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**This signing is a major boost for the Minnesota Lynx and speaks volumes about Whalen’s enduring impact on the franchise. What are your thoughts on Whalen’s return? Join the conversation and share your predictions for the upcoming WNBA season! **
**For further reading:**
* **WNBA Finals Preview: Lynx Ready for Rematch?**
* **Lindsay Whalen: A Look Back at Her Hall-of-Fame Career**
