Get ready for an inside look at the incredible journey of the Minnesota Lynx, led by the dynamic duo of Cheryl Reeve and Rebekkah Brunson. These women are not just changing the game; they're rewriting the rules and inspiring a generation. But here's where it gets controversial... despite their undeniable success, one name is shockingly missing from the Hall of Fame. Prepare to dive into their story and uncover the secrets to their winning culture.
The Lynx Legacy
Cheryl Reeve, a two-time championship winner in Detroit, brought her winning vision to the Lynx. She aimed to create a powerhouse team, and with the addition of stars like Lindsay Whalen and Rebekkah Brunson, the Lynx were on their way. The turning point came in 2011 when they drafted Maya Moore, leading to their first championship that very same year. Reeve's core group went on to dominate, playing in an incredible six out of seven finals and winning three more titles. It's a record that speaks for itself, yet one name, Rebekkah Brunson, is absurdly missing from the Hall of Fame.
Building a Winning Culture
Cheryl Reeve shares her vision for transforming the Lynx into a formidable force. "I wanted Minnesota to be a place where opponents didn't enjoy visiting. The experience here should be less enjoyable than at home; a place where they'd rather not be." Rebekkah Brunson, who joined the team after winning a championship in Sacramento, talks about instilling a winning mindset from the players' perspective. She highlights the talent of Seimone Augustus and the team's potential, saying, "There wasn't a feeling of joining a bad team." Brunson's perspective on the city and its distractions adds an intriguing layer to the team's success story.
Cheryl's Journey to Head Coach
Cheryl Reeve's path to becoming the Lynx's head coach was paved with honesty and a desire for authenticity. When offered a job in Tulsa, she refused to "prop up these men" any longer. Her time working with Bill Laimbeer allowed her to be her true self, and she believes this authenticity is key to her success. "Age brings wisdom, but I've always been true to myself. Working with Laimbeer showed me the power of being authentic, and I strive to create that environment for my players."
Coaching Styles and Player Dynamics
Cheryl Reeve adapts her coaching style to each player, allowing them to be themselves. She shares an example of Seimone Augustus, who responded well to a more direct approach, and Lindsay Whalen, who needed a softer touch due to her pleasing dynamic. Rebekkah Brunson, now an assistant coach, talks about her role as a "filter" for the current generation of players, ensuring honest and effective communication.
The Power of Media and Respect
Rebekkah Brunson, now a basketball pundit, discusses the difference between delivering messages as a coach and as an analyst. She emphasizes the importance of hope and positivity when speaking to viewers, but as a coach, her focus is on helping players improve. Brunson feels that coaching aligns more with her authentic self, as it allows her to influence results. Cheryl Reeve adds that the Lynx's success brought a rise in interest, but they also faced challenges, including a lack of recognition and respect from the national media.
The Growth of the W
Cheryl Reeve compares the W's current growth to the NBA's inflection point in the '70s with Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. She believes proper investment and exposure are key to the league's success. Rebekkah Brunson agrees, citing the media's role in putting Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese on the front page and driving interest in the league. Both women express excitement about the league's growth and the respect it's finally receiving.
The Future of the Lynx
As the Lynx look ahead to the 2026 season, Cheryl Reeve emphasizes the importance of retaining and adding key players. With the team's reputation and success, they are an attractive destination for players around the league. Reeve's focus is on building a competitive team that can bring home another championship.
The Minnesota Lynx Top 10 (+1)
- #23 Maya Moore, Shooting Guard (2011-2018)
- #34 Sylvia Fowles, Center (2015-2022)
- #33 Seimone Augustus, Small Forward (2006-2019)
- #13 Lindsay Whalen, Point Guard (2010-2018)
- #32 Rebekkah Brunson, Power Forward (2010-2018)
- #24 Napheesa Collier, Power Forward (2019-present)
- #30 Katie Smith, Shooting Guard (1999-2005)
- #21 Kayla McBride, Shooting Guard (2021-present)
- #8 Alanna Smith, Center (2024-present)
- #10 & 2 The StudBudz! (Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman), Point Guards (2024-present)
