Napheesa Collier builds MVP resume with incredible first half vs. Sparks

The 2025 WNBA MVP Award is increasingly looking like Napheesa Collier's to lose. And based on her incredible first half against the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday, the Minnesota Lynx forward doesn't appear interested in letting that happen.

The Lynx jumped out to a 34-15 lead after one quarter against the Sparks and led by 32 at halftime, 58-26. Collier, as she has all season, led the way. 

The seven-year veteran had 26 points on 10-of-12 shooting, including 3-of-4 on three-point attempts, six rebounds and six assists in 18 minutes. 

Collier has been a key factor in the team's phenomenal 9-1 start.

Entering Saturday, the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year and MVP runner-up has averaged a career-best 25.4 points per game on 50.6 percent shooting, including 40.6 percent from long range, while adding 8.9 rebounds, 3.7 assists, two steals and 1.6 blocks per game this season.

Collier showed off her full offensive repertoire in the first-half blowout, driving to the paint with ease and taking advantage of lax defense by knocking down open three-point shots.