Inside WNBA Star Napheesa Collier’s Journey of Recovery and Resilience

Napheesa Collier's Recovery Journey

Napheesa Collier, the five-time WNBA All-Star of the Minnesota Lynx, has spent the better part of 2023 focusing on her recovery after undergoing surgeries on both ankles. Her determination to return to the court aligns with her support for her team, which currently boasts an impressive 21-6 record.

Despite being sidelined due to injuries sustained last season, Collier remains a crucial part of the Lynx, echoing her pride in their success this year. "I'm so proud of them," she shares. "It's been really fun to watch the chemistry and the joy that they play with. We've exceeded everyone's expectations, which is always fun too."

Preparing for Her Return

Collier is set to make her comeback against the Seattle Storm, and while she is eager to return, she understands that the road to full recovery is paramount. "I don't think I'm going to feel back to myself 100 percent when I step back on the court," she admits. However, her extensive work in recovery and training gives her confidence that she will regain her form.

"The flow of the game will come naturally," she reassures. "I've played it for so many years, I think that always comes back."

A Rigorous Recovery Routine

Even though she hasn't been able to play, her daily routine has been all about recovery. Collier arrives at the gym early for treatment, rehab, and lifting sessions, dedicating hours not just to her physical recovery but also to her daughter Mila, whom she picks up from school after her sessions.

Supplementing Recovery

Collier emphasizes the importance of nutrition and supplementation as part of her recovery strategy. She has partnered with NSF Certified for Sport supplement brand Thorne to optimize her health. Her tailored supplement stack includes vitamin D, vitamin C, omega-3, and a multivitamin, with collagen and creatine added prior to her surgery. "Anything that you can do to push yourself over the edge even a little bit is worth it," she states, recognizing that supplements can enhance her overall recovery efforts.

High-Tech Healing Techniques

Collier also utilizes advanced recovery technologies, such as red light therapy and a hyperbaric chamber available at the Lynx facility. Initially skeptical, she's found that the red light therapy has made a tangible difference in her recovery.

"You have to be consistent," she shares about her routine—using the therapy daily for about 20 minutes, a practice she credits for aiding her healing process.

Emphasizing Patience in Recovery

As the possibility of returning to play approaches, Collier and her team of trainers, coaches, and doctors remain cautious. She understands the critical importance of not rushing her recovery, saying, "You want to make sure that you're coming back 100 percent healthy."

While the past months have felt extensive, she reflects on her career in perspective, recognizing that these moments will be a small part of her larger journey.

Finding Balance in Life and Work

Off the court, Collier is also focused on her responsibilities as a co-founder of Unrivaled, a venture she has led through the offseason. Through this, and with the support of her daughter Mila, she has gained valuable insights into balancing her professional commitments with personal life.

"She just gives me such a purpose and really puts everything into perspective," Collier explains. As she navigates her recovery, she finds joy in motherhood that helps reshape her mental approach to her injury. "I'm Mama to her—I'm not a basketball player."

As Collier prepares for her return, it's clear her journey is not only about reclaiming her place on the court but also about embracing the life lessons learned along the way.