Cheryl Reeve Sets WNBA Coaching Wins Record as Lynx Continue Outstanding Season

Cheryl Reeve became the winningest coach in WNBA regular-season history after leading the Minnesota Lynx to a comeback victory over the Connecticut Sun.

  • Glenn Catubig
  • 4 min read
Cheryl Reeve Sets WNBA Coaching Wins Record as Lynx Continue Outstanding Season
© David Butler II-Imagn Images

Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve added another remarkable achievement to her legendary career on Wednesday night, becoming the winningest coach in WNBA regular-season history. The milestone came after the Lynx rallied for an 86-80 road victory over the Connecticut Sun, giving Reeve her 380th career regular-season win.

The victory moved Reeve past former record-holder Mike Thibault, whose 379 wins had stood as the league benchmark. While the accomplishment further strengthened Reeve’s place among the greatest coaches in WNBA history, she quickly redirected the spotlight toward the players and staff who helped make the achievement possible.

Rather than focusing on individual recognition, Reeve emphasized the importance of sharing the historic moment with those who have been part of her journey throughout the years. She expressed gratitude for current and former players, assistant coaches, trainers, and support staff who have contributed to the Lynx’s sustained success.

The record also comes during another impressive season for Minnesota. Despite battling injuries to key contributors, the Lynx continue to lead the WNBA standings and remain among the favorites to compete for another championship under Reeve’s leadership.

1. Historic Victory for Reeve

Reeve reached the historic milestone with her 380th regular-season victory after Minnesota erased a late deficit to defeat Connecticut. The comeback prevented what would have been another delay in breaking the record following consecutive losses entering Wednesday’s contest.

The Lynx trailed by five points entering the fourth quarter before responding with an impressive finish. Minnesota outscored the Sun 26-15 during the final period, completing the comeback and securing the victory that placed Reeve alone atop the league’s all-time coaching wins list.

Following the game, Reeve made it clear that the record belonged to everyone who had supported her throughout her coaching career. She spoke about how meaningful it was to celebrate alongside players, coaches, trainers, and staff members who have shared in the organization’s success over the years.

Her comments reflected the team-first approach that has defined her tenure in Minnesota. While individual honors continue to accumulate, Reeve has consistently credited the people around her for building one of the WNBA’s most successful organizations.

2. Lynx Continue to Thrive

The victory improved Minnesota’s record to 16-6, giving the Lynx sole possession of first place in the WNBA standings. They moved ahead of both the Las Vegas Aces and Golden State Valkyries while maintaining the league’s best overall record.

Minnesota has accomplished that success despite playing without star forward Napheesa Collier, who continues recovering from offseason surgery on both ankles. Even in her absence, the Lynx have remained one of the league’s most balanced and efficient teams.

Veteran guard Kayla McBride led the way against Connecticut with 23 points while contributing four rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Natasha Howard recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Courtney Williams and Dorka Juhasz each added 12 points.

The Lynx were also without rookie standout Olivia Miles for a second consecutive game because of a calf strain. Nevertheless, Minnesota’s depth and disciplined system once again allowed the club to overcome adversity and earn another important victory.

3. Legacy Still Growing

Reeve’s latest accomplishment adds to one of the most decorated coaching careers in women’s basketball history. Since taking over the Lynx in 2010, she has guided the franchise to four WNBA championships in 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017 while earning four Coach of the Year awards.

Her success extends beyond the regular season. Reeve already owns the WNBA record for postseason coaching victories and became the league’s all-time leader in combined regular-season and playoff wins during the 2025 season, further solidifying her legacy.

Earlier this year, Reeve’s contributions to the sport were recognized with induction into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. She became only the second WNBA coach to receive that honor after also leading Team USA to a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In addition to serving as head coach, Reeve continues to oversee basketball operations as the Lynx’s president of basketball operations and general manager. As the league’s last remaining coach-general manager, she continues to shape every aspect of Minnesota’s sustained success while adding new milestones to an already extraordinary career.

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Written by: Glenn Catubig

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