Get ready for an exciting update on the Minnesota Lynx players as they navigate their off-season journeys!
The Lynx's Global Presence
With the WNBA's CBA deal deadline looming, the off-season has been a busy one for Lynx players worldwide. Twelve talented athletes are currently showcasing their skills across the globe, each with their own unique story to tell.
But here's where it gets interesting: some players are breaking new ground, while others are returning to familiar territories. Let's dive into their adventures!
Courtney Williams: A Breeze of Fresh Air
Williams, a seasoned veteran, has returned to Unrivaled for her second season. After an initial stint with the Lunar Owls, she joined Vinyl before being traded to Breeze. Despite an up-and-down start offensively, Williams has been a consistent presence on the boards and in distribution. Her team, Breeze, has advanced to the semifinals, setting up an intriguing matchup against Alanna Smith's Mist.
Alanna Smith: A First for the US
For the first time in her professional career, Smith is spending her off-season in the United States. She's been a key contributor for The Mist, helping them to a strong start with her offensive prowess and defensive lockdown abilities. Smith's recent performance in the regular season finale was nothing short of impressive, setting season highs in scoring and blocks. Get ready for a thrilling semifinals showdown against Courtney Williams and Breeze!
Natisha Hiedeman: Back-to-Back Unrivaled Seasons
Hiedeman is no stranger to Unrivaled, returning for her second consecutive season. After playing for three different teams during the inaugural season, she ended the year with a championship win alongside Rose. This season, Hiedeman has been a valuable bench player for Hive, one of the newest teams in Unrivaled. Although their season has come to a close, her impact was felt throughout.
Kayla McBride: Home Away from Home
McBride, a Turkish powerhouse favorite, has returned to Fenerbahçe, her second home. While some expected her to play in Unrivaled, she chose to start her off-season overseas. McBride has been a two-way force, putting up impressive numbers and even setting a season-high in assists. Her recent double-double performances have been a sight to behold.
Bridget Carleton: Exploring New Horizons
Carleton is an international traveler, adding the Czech Republic to her list of countries played in. With seven countries under her belt, including Australia, Spain, Franco, Hungary, Israel, and Turkey, she's a true global citizen. Carleton has been making her mark in both Czech Republic-ZBL and EuroLeague action, impacting the game in various ways. Although her recent week was quieter offensively, her all-around game shines through.
Jessica Shepard: A New Country, Same Dominance
Shepard is exploring a new country this off-season, Italy, after spending time in Greece last year. She's been a force to be reckoned with, putting up impressive double-double numbers. Her recent performance in EuroLeague action was nothing short of dominant, showcasing her well-rounded skills.
Maria Kliundikova: Back in Russia with Lynx Company
Kliundikova, who joined the Lynx mid-season and played a significant bench role, is back in her home country of Russia. She's joined by fellow Lynx teammate, Anastasiia Olairi Kosu, on the UMMC Ekateringburg team. Kliundikova has had a balanced off-season, contributing offensively and on the boards. Her recent double-double outing was impressive, showcasing her all-around game.
Dorka Juhász: New Country, Same Impact
Juhász is spending her off-season in Turkey, a new country for her. Despite sitting out the 2025 WNBA campaign, she's still under contract with Minnesota through 2026. Juhász has been making an impact in both Turkey-KBSL and EuroLeague action, putting up balanced performances. Her recent near-double-double outings have been impressive, showcasing her versatility.
Anastasiia Olairi Kosu: Developing in Russia
Kosu is back in Russia, playing alongside Maria Kliundikova. Minnesota is hopeful that she continues to develop leading into her second WNBA campaign. Kosu has had a strong start in Russia, making an impact defensively in recent games. Her recent performance in a win showcased her growing defensive prowess.
Maia Hirsch: Developing in France
Hirsch, a Lynx draft pick yet to play in the WNBA, continues her development in France. After an up-and-down off-season last year, she's off to a solid start this time around. Hirsch's recent week was quiet, as she didn't take the court in any France-BWL or EuroLeague games, but her development is certainly on track.
Jaylyn Sherrod: Staying Stateside with Athletes Unlimited
Sherrod is spending her off-season in the US, participating in Athletes Unlimited's fifth season. She's one of 40 players in this fast-paced, full-court, 5-on-5 league. Sherrod's season came to a close after a strong final week, where she reached double figures in scoring twice. Her impact in this league is undeniable.
Camryn Taylor: From Greece to France
Taylor, who joined the Lynx late in the 2025 season, has moved from Greece to France. She had a slow start to her off-season schedule but has picked up the pace recently with two straight double-digit outings. Taylor's recent week was quiet, as she didn't play in any France-BWL action.
And there you have it! An update on the Lynx players' off-season adventures. Stay tuned for more exciting updates next week!
What do you think of these players' off-season choices? Do you think their experiences will translate to a successful WNBA season? Let's discuss in the comments!
