Nate Tibbetts Details Napheesa Collier’s Quality but Puts Team’s Hopes on Injured Brittney Griner’s Shoulders

The Phoenix Mercury are having somewhat of a mixed season so far. After making a decent start to their campaign and winning 3 out of their 4 opening games, they hit a rough patch with a 4-game losing streak. Now, their Commissioner’s Cup journey so far has witnessed a 2-1 record courtesy of their latest victory against the Minnesota Lynx. The occasion also marked the return of 9x WNBA All-Star star Brittney Griner, who had been out of action due to a fractured toe.

The win wasn’t a convincing one for the hosts, as they were having a hard time dealing with the brilliance of Minnesota’s No.24 Napheesa Collier. So much so that the Mercury head coach, Nate Tibbets couldn’t help but commend her efforts in the post-game press conference. Tibbet said, “I don’t think people around the league and nationally talk about her enough. How good she is. The matchup problems that she presents. No situation is too big or too small for her. She’s just a consistent threat.” 

The power forward ended up being the second-best performer for Minnesota. Her 40 minutes on the court were able to produce a fantastic double-double that included 20 points and 12 rebounds. She was 7-19 from the field but connected on both her three-pointers. From the free throw line as well, Collier was accurate in all her 4 attempts.

Following this, Tibbets also spared a thought on Brittney Griner’s delightful return. He added, “I know when the injury happened how disappointed she was just because this was her first true offseason of work and she was ready to have a big year. She’s excited to be back and we might be more excited to have her back.”

Indeed, this was true as Griner fully expressed her delight in her comeback in the post-game press conference.

Brittney Griner is ecstatic about her return

Soon after the game, the 2014 WNBA champion interacted with the media. She couldn’t help but thoroughly show her relief at finally making her season debut. Griner said, “Feels great. Just sitting back and watching my team hold it down and play and compete, I was just chomping at the bit to get out there. So it just feels good being back with my team and being able to contribute and be a part of it.”

The night was productive for the 33-year-old. Her 11 points and 4 rebounds played its part in an important victory for the Phoenix Mercury. They will now be paying a visit to Dallas in their next fixture.

Clearly, the Mercury gets a much-needed boost on their reunion with Brittney Griner. The inclusion of Griner will surely provide them with an expansion in their offensive options. It will be interesting to see how soon the fans will witness the full extent of her potential.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the Reese-Clark rivalry and more, watch this video.