Cheryl Reeve: A Journey to the Top of the WNBA
MINNEAPOLIS — After a decade of perseverance, Cheryl Reeve finally got her shot at leading a WNBA team as head coach. Her journey was marked by challenges, including a franchise move that tested her resolve throughout her time as an assistant coach.
Family and friends reminded her of her impressive educational background, which included two degrees. Some even suggested she move to coaching college basketball instead. But, Reeve was anything but wishy-washy about her career goals.
“I’m a WNBA person,” she recalls insisting to those around her. “If things don’t work out, I’ll stick with it. I’m determined to see this through.”
Fast forward to today, and she’s made quite a mark. In the WNBA’s 30th season, Reeve stands as the league’s all-time winningest head coach, a remarkable feat coinciding with a surge in the league’s popularity.
On Wednesday, Reeve, now 59, achieved her 380th regular season victory with the Minnesota Lynx, surpassing the legendary Mike Thibault. She’s looking to further expand her record as the Lynx prepare to take on the Liberty this Saturday.
Reeve’s relentless drive and competitive spirit have solidified her place as one of the greatest coaches of this era. Despite expectations that her team might struggle this season due to roster changes, she’s guiding the Lynx toward their fifth championship, defying the odds.
Recently inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, she is also a strong contender for Coach of the Year, an award she has previously won four times. In a profession where turnover is common, Reeve’s longevity with the Lynx—over 16 years—is quite impressive.
Her success breeds high expectations; playoffs are a must for her franchise. Consequently, Minnesota has qualified for 14 of the last 15 postseason tournaments and made it to the finals seven times during that span.
Reeve recalls early career setbacks where she was overlooked for roles in favor of former NBA players, even though she had more relevant experience. When she finally got the chance to lead the Lynx in 2010, she wasn’t preoccupied with job security. “I just wanted an opportunity,” Reeve stated, conveying that her skills would speak for themselves.
Reflecting on the growth of the league, she expressed pride in its evolution. “Back then, I always really expected to get here,” she noted. “Every bit of effort was worth it.”
For a long time, she endeavored to differentiate her personal identity from her coaching role, acknowledging a deeper connection to the game. Now, however, there’s no denying it.
“Basketball is my identity, my life,” she admitted candidly. “I embrace that truth.”
And retirement? Not in the cards. Reeve’s passion remains strong, akin to when she began this journey 17 years ago. With aspirations of winning yet another championship with her current team, her enthusiasm is palpable.
“I’m just a passionate person overall,” she shared. “When that passion is present, my players feel it, too. And believe me, that fire is still burning bright.”
