In a WNBA offseason marked by significant coaching changes across the league, the Minnesota Lynx have made bold moves to strengthen head coach Cheryl Reeve’s staff. The team recently announced the hiring of franchise legend Lindsay Whalen as an assistant coach and former Washington Mystics head coach Eric Thibault as associate head coach, signaling their commitment to excellence and championship aspirations.
Lindsay Whalen Returns Home
Lindsay Whalen, a four-time WNBA champion and Hall of Famer, is no stranger to success with the Lynx. As the team’s point guard during their dynastic run in the 2010s, Whalen played an integral role in establishing the Lynx as a perennial powerhouse. After retiring in 2018, she transitioned to coaching, leading her alma mater, the University of Minnesota, from 2018 to 2023.
Now, Whalen returns to the franchise where she made her mark, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and experience. “It just feels like it’s time to get back, work hard, and be a part of a team and a group,” Whalen shared with ESPN. “It just all felt like the timing was really right.”
Whalen’s presence on the sidelines during the Lynx’s thrilling run to the WNBA Finals last season did not go unnoticed by players and fans alike. Superstar forward Napheesa Collier expressed her excitement about Whalen’s new role, stating, “She was really supportive. Always congratulating after a good game, or saying we got this after a loss… just really had that supportive role this whole time.”
Reuniting with Rebekkah Brunson
Whalen’s return also means a reunion with close friend and former teammate Rebekkah Brunson, with whom she won four championships. Their shared experiences and deep understanding of the Lynx culture are expected to have a profound impact on the team’s young core.
“I think it’s what makes us so unique at Minnesota — we have people who’ve been through what we’re going through,” Collier remarked. “They won so many championships in the place they’re coaching and we’re playing at now… I feel super lucky I get to be a part of that.”
– Napheesa Collier, Minnesota Lynx Forward
Mentoring Courtney Williams
Head coach Cheryl Reeve believes Whalen’s experience as a point guard under her demanding leadership will prove invaluable in mentoring current Lynx floor general Courtney Williams. “I think having me will really help her take hopefully another step this year into continuing to lead the team and be a successful point guard for the franchise,” Whalen shared.
Eric Thibault Brings Fresh Perspective
Alongside Whalen, the Lynx have brought in Eric Thibault as associate head coach. Thibault, who previously served as head coach of the Washington Mystics for two seasons, is known for his innovative approach to the game and ability to develop players.
Thibault and Reeve have fostered a mutual respect over the years, with their teams frequently training together during the preseason. Reeve even sat down with Thibault to offer advice when he transitioned from assistant to head coach in Washington.
“You want to make sure you’re aligned where you are, and that wasn’t really the case anymore,” Thibault told ESPN about his departure from the Mystics. “I’ve got no ill-feelings whatsoever towards D.C. … I felt gratitude towards D.C. as it all ended, and I feel a lot of gratitude towards Minnesota now.”
– Eric Thibault, Minnesota Lynx Associate Head Coach
Reeve praised Thibault’s ability to rally the Mystics from an 0-12 start last season, keeping them in playoff contention until the final day. She believes his coaching style aligns well with the Lynx’s emphasis on spacing the floor and sharing the ball.
A Family Affair
Interestingly, Whalen and Thibault have their own intertwined history. Whalen played under Eric’s father, Mike Thibault, for six seasons with the Connecticut Sun. Eric’s sister, Carly Thibault-DuDonis, served as Whalen’s associate head coach at the University of Minnesota.
“The Thibaults and the Whalens have always been very tight,” Eric shared. “Now we get to put our heads together and try to help Cheryl and the Lynx get back to being champions.”
– Eric Thibault, Minnesota Lynx Associate Head Coach
Adapting to Changing Landscape
The Lynx’s coaching staff restructuring comes amidst significant changes within the organization. Associate head coach Katie Smith recently departed for Ohio State, while general manager Clare Duwelius joined the newly formed Unrivaled league.
Despite these challenges, Reeve remains focused on putting the best possible staff in place to support her players and maintain the Lynx’s championship standards. “We worked hard to put our best foot forward for [our players] because we continue to have big goals for this group,” Reeve told ESPN. “I think this staff is well-positioned to help us get there.”
Chasing Another Title
With Whalen and Thibault on board, the Lynx are poised to make another run at the WNBA title. The team’s second-place finish last season and thrilling Finals appearance have only fueled their desire to reclaim the championship trophy.
As the WNBA continues to evolve and grow, the Minnesota Lynx are ensuring they remain at the forefront by assembling a coaching staff that combines experience, innovation, and a deep understanding of the franchise’s winning culture. With Lindsay Whalen and Eric Thibault joining forces with Cheryl Reeve, the Lynx are well-equipped to navigate the challenges ahead and compete for another championship.
