Last month, the Minnesota Lynx fell short of the WNBA champions in possession.
Two key personnel have since left the franchise to pursue other opportunities. Assistant coach Katie Smith took a coaching role at her alma mater, Ohio State, while general manager Claire Duwellius pivoted to general manager for the Unrivaled.
However, the Lynx made a series of moves to strengthen Cheryl Reeve's coaching staff. On Saturday, the organization announced the hiring of two new assistant coaches, former standout player Lindsay Whalen and longtime WNBA coach Eric Thibault.
Whalen, a four-time WNBA champion with the Lynx and five seasons as head coach at the University of Minnesota, was a mainstay on the sideline during the Lynx's Finals run, but now he officially returns to the organization in a new capacity. .
Eric Thibault, who was the head coach of the Washington Mystics until he was fired earlier this fall, has found a new home in the WNBA.
“We are excited to add both Eric and Lindsey to our coaching staff.” Reeve said.He has been the head coach of the Lynx since 2010. “Eric has extensive experience coaching in the WNBA as both a head coach and assistant coach and is a WNBA champion. Lindsey adds a unique perspective as a Lynx legend and Naismith Hall of Famer. Once again in the WNBA We look forward to working with both for the championship.”
Thibault was fired by the Mystics after two seasons as head coach. Prior to that, he served as an assistant for 10 seasons under the leadership of his father, Mike.
Whalen, a franchise legend, hasn't coached since 2023, when his tenure at the University of Minnesota ended.
Lindsay Whalen brings a former player's perspective
Lindsey Whalen played point guard on four Lynx championship teams. In her career, she averaged 11.5 points and 4.9 assists per game. Her jersey was retired by Minnesota in 2019, and she was inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023.
Whalen is not the first former player to join the coaching staff. Rebecca Brunson was a Lynx teammate with Whalen for nine seasons, including four championships, and was an assistant coach with the Lynx for five seasons.
“I think that's what makes us so unique in Minnesota. We have people who have been through what we're going through,” Collier He told ESPN's Alexa Philippou.. “They've won so many championships where they're coaching, and we're playing right now.”
Whalen was often seen sitting courtside during games and coaching the Lynx from the sideline during the playoffs, even traveling to New York for Game 5.
She is one of the winningest players in league history. She has amassed 323 career wins (second all-time behind Sue Bird's 333) and 54 postseason wins (second all-time behind Brunson's 57). Whalen should contribute to improving his status. courtney williamseffectively served as the Lynx's point guard last season.
Eric Thibault brings extensive WNBA coaching experience
Thibault's roots with the Mystics run deep, as does his understanding of the WNBA landscape.
“It was clear that the team continues to believe in what we're doing, believe in each other and believe in Eric's leadership,” Reeve told ESPN.
Whalen played six seasons under Mike Thibault with the Connecticut Sun, and their families have long been connected.
“I’m really excited to get back to the Lynx and be back with Coach and Becky.” [Rebekkah Brunson]” Whalen said. “Eric and I have known each other for many years, and I couldn't imagine joining a better staff as I return to coaching and have my first opportunity to coach in the WNBA. This team has a special group of people. I can't wait to get to work.”
For those keeping track, Thibault comes in second. was fired The head coach will likely find a new home in the WNBA. Curt Miller, who was fired by the Sparks, will be the new general manager of the Dallas Wings. (Stephanie White voluntarily left the Connecticut Sun, but was soon named the new head coach of the Indiana Fever).
Conversely, Teresa Weatherspoon (Chicago Sky) Tanisha Wright (Atlanta Dream), and Latricia Trammell (Atlanta Dream) All have yet to announce their next move in the WNBA — if it comes at all. Weatherspoon will be coaching at Unrivaled during the WNBA offseason, but that doesn't preclude her from competing in the WNBA.
At a time when so many teams are completely rebuilding their coaching staffs, the Lynx will benefit from the continued leadership of Cheryl Reeve, one of the most decorated head coaches in WNBA history. . At the same time, the organization has successfully hired two assistant coaches by bringing in former players who have already shown meaningful connections with players, as well as hiring individuals with extensive and proven WNBA experience. Very sensitive. With most of Minnesota's core players back, Lindsay Whalen and Eric Thibault should help improve the Lynx's title chances next season.
