Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Lynx lose second straight game as Napheesa Collier's return looms

Originally posted on Bring Me The News | By Joe Nelson | Last updated Aug 22, 2025 9:16 AM ET

The Minnesota Lynx (28-7) lost for just the seventh time this season Thursday in Atlanta, though the 75-73 defeat was their second straight this week.

After a 10-point loss in New York on Tuesday, the Lynx traveled across the country to play the Dream, who at 23-13 after the win have the second-best record in the WNBA.

Minnesota was without MVP candidate Napheesa Collier for a sixth straight game. Good news however arrived in the injury report 24 hours before the game as Collier was listed as questionable, another indication that she's close to returning from right ankle sprain after she was considered doubtful the previous three games.

A three-pointer by Alanna Smith cut Minnesota's deficit to 73-71 with 48.9 seconds left in the game, but the Lynx simply couldn't close it out. It wasn't for a lack of effort.

The Lynx forced two eight-second violations on the Dream in the final 45 seconds, but shots by Smith and Courtney Williams didn't fall and Atlanta was able seal the victory with a pair of free throws by Maya Caldwell.

Allisha Gray led all scorers with 27 points to lead Atlanta. Bridget Carleton led Minnesota with 16 points, while Kayla McBride added 15 points and Jessica Shepard stuffed the box score with 15 points and 16 rebounds.

No rest for the Lynx as they're back in action against the injury-depleted Indiana Fever at 6:30 p.m. CT Friday.

This article first appeared on Bring Me The News and was syndicated with permission.

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