Get ready for an exciting update on the Minnesota Lynx as they gear up for the 2026 season! But here's the twist: while some players are dominating overseas, others are making waves in the Unrivaled league, and one key player is sidelined due to injury. As the offseason heats up, let’s dive into where your favorite Lynx stars are playing, how they’re performing, and what’s next for the team.
With the new year in full swing, 11 out of 12 Lynx players are back in action, either overseas or in the Unrivaled league. And this is the part most people miss: Napheesa Collier, who was expected to join Unrivaled, will sit out the season due to ankle surgery, with a recovery time of 4-6 months. The rest of the roster—Courtney Williams, Alanna Smith, Natisha Hiedeman, Kayla McBride, Bridget Carleton, Jessica Shepard, Maia Hirsch, Dorka Juhász, Maria Kliundikova, Anastasiia Olairi Kosu, Camryn Taylor, and Jaylyn Sherrod—are all making their mark in various leagues.
Courtney Williams has returned to Unrivaled for her second season, now playing for Team Vinyl. While her offensive start has been slow, she’s been a standout in assists and rebounds. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Williams’ playmaking enough to offset her scoring struggles? Her performance against Natisha Hiedeman on January 11th, where she scored 12 points, might just silence the doubters—for now.
Alanna Smith, playing for The Mist in Unrivaled, is spending her first offseason in the U.S. instead of overseas. She’s been a defensive powerhouse, averaging 3.0 blocks per game. But the question remains: Can she maintain this level of dominance as the season progresses?
Natisha Hiedeman, back with Unrivaled’s Hive, started strong but has since cooled off. Is this a temporary slump, or a sign of deeper challenges? Her ability to spark her team when needed keeps her a player to watch.
Kayla McBride chose to return to Fenerbahçe in Turkey, where she’s been a three-point threat and helped secure another Turkish Cup Championship. But why Turkey over Unrivaled? McBride’s decision sparks debate about player priorities and league appeal.
Bridget Carleton, now in the Czech Republic with USK Praha, continues her globetrotting career. Her versatility shines in both the Czech Republic-ZBL and EuroLeague. Is she the most underrated Lynx player? Her recent 19-point outing against SBS Ostrava certainly makes a case.
Jessica Shepard, playing for Famila Schio in Italy, is once again a double-double machine. Her performance in the Italian Cup Championship solidifies her status as a key player. But can she sustain this level of play in the EuroLeague?
Maria Kliundikova and Anastasiia Olairi Kosu are teammates at UMMC Ekaterinburg in Russia, with both players showing balanced contributions. Will Kosu’s development overseas translate to WNBA success? Only time will tell.
Dorka Juhász, now with Galatasaray in Turkey, has made an impact on both ends of the floor. Her performance in the Turkish Cup Final, despite the loss to Fenerbahçe, highlights her growth. But is she ready to reclaim her spot in the WNBA?
Maia Hirsch, still developing in France with Charleville-Mezieres, is showing improvement after a rocky offseason last year. Is she the Lynx’s future star? Her progress this season will be crucial.
Camryn Taylor, now with Landerneau in France, had a slow start but has recently picked up her game. However, her absence from the last seven games raises questions: Is she injured, or is this a strategic decision?
Finally, Jaylyn Sherrod will stay stateside, joining Athletes Unlimited’s fifth season in Nashville. Will this fast-paced league be the platform she needs to break out?
As the Lynx players continue to make their mark globally, one thing is clear: this offseason is anything but ordinary. What’s your take on the Lynx’s offseason moves? Which player are you most excited to see in action? Let us know in the comments below! Stay tuned for more updates as we follow the Lynx’s journey to the 2026 season.
