WNBA MVP runner-up, Lynx star Napheesa Collier out for must-win Game 4 vs. Mercury

PHOENIX (AP) — Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier will miss Game 4 of the WNBA semifinal series against the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday, two days after injuring her left ankle late in Game 3.

The Lynx trail the best-of-five series 2-1. If they can win on Sunday, Game 5 would be Tuesday night in Minnesota.

Collier injured her ankle late in the fourth quarter Friday when she got tangled up with Alyssa Thomas, who stole the ball from her near the 3-point line. No foul was called on the play. The Mercury won the game 84-76.

The runner-up for MVP hurt her ankle on the play and had to be helped to the locker room. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve said after the game that Collier “probably has a fracture,” though she didn’t elaborate on the injury.

Reeve also won’t be with the team Sunday as she was suspended for the game by the league for behavior and comments after that play and in the team’s postgame press conference.

Related

Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve suspended for critical Game 4 vs. Mercury in WNBA semifinalsMercury force Lynx to boiling point, now 1 win away from WNBA FinalsSuns, Mercury unveil plan for largest outdoor screen for NBA, WNBA arenaMercury surrender lead to Fire late, spoiling Taurasi’s Ring of Honor nightDiana Taurasi’s jersey retirement celebrated with gratitude for her greatnessDiana Taurasi looks back on the loyalty, relationships developed during Mercury career