Napheesa Collier Named WNBA Defensive Player of Year

Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier has been named the 2024 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, marking her first win of the award. Collier was instrumental in leading the Lynx to a franchise-record 30 wins and the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, where they have advanced to the semifinals. She averaged 1.9 steals and 1.4 blocks per game, ranking second and seventh in the league respectively, and significantly impacted the Lynx's defensive rating. Cheryl Reeve, the Lynx's head coach, earned the Coach of the Year award for a record fourth time, further solidifying her legacy. Collier's performance this season has been lauded for her ability to guard top MVP candidates and All-WNBA stars. This recognition adds to her accolades, having also been named to the All-Defensive First Team.