As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, it’s time for teams to ramp up their efforts. This year promises to be highly competitive, so the shift from training camp to regular season is crucial.
Coaches are demanding maximum effort from their players daily, and some aren’t hesitant to voice their disappointment when that expectation isn’t met. Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve knows what it takes to build a winning team. After a recent practice, she voiced her frustration over a lackadaisical effort from her team.
“That’s why we’re here so early,” Reeve remarked to reporters after the session concluded.
She added, with a hint of sarcasm, “The way they showed up today felt like they were really not interested in being here and working on anything.”
Cheryl Reeve on Lynx practice moving into the regular season: “The way they showed up today felt like they weren’t really interested in being here.”
Her approach might seem strict, but it’s undoubtedly effective. Reeve is well-respected in women’s basketball, and disappointing her can lead to some serious self-reflection.
The Lynx are aiming to return to the WNBA Finals this season after narrowly losing last year’s championship series to New York. It was a closely contested series, and it’s easy to imagine a different outcome—one that would have seen the Lynx claim their first title since Maya Moore’s era in 2017. Instead, they ended up on the losing side, as the Liberty captured their first championship.
This year’s competition is expected to be even tougher with teams like the Las Vegas Aces looking strong in the preseason. The Indiana Fever has also bolstered its roster, making the race for the championship more unpredictable.
Given this landscape, it’s understandable that Reeve demands high performance from her players. To compete at this level, they’ll need to give 100% effort in every game.
For reporters, it’s evident that Reeve’s candid remarks serve to hold her team accountable. A little media scrutiny might be just what some players need to step up their game.
Since Reeve is such a respected figure, her honest comments about performance can be seen as fair rather than harsh. She speaks plainly, and players need to be prepared to face that reality—especially with many eager athletes ready to take their place if they can’t keep up.
