20th Season Memories: The Lynx Hire Cheryl Reeve

Cheryl Reeve is the captain of the Lynx’s very successful ship. She’s led them to four titles in seven years and helped change the franchise’s identity from one that wasn’t used to winning to one that is a perennial championship contender.

Reeve was brought on board before the 2010 season following a four-year stint as an assistant coach with the Detroit Shock. Lynx Executive Vice President Roger Griffin spoke highly of Reeve when she was introduced.

“We’re very excited about her passion and enthusiasm for the job, her lengthy experience as a coach, and her knowledge of the teams and the players in this league. We also like the confidence and belief she has that our team can be successful immediately. We believe hiring Cheryl puts us in the best position to win right now.”

Reeve was excited as well, and looked forward to helping the Lynx become one of the best teams in the league.

“I’m looking forward to this exciting opportunity to lead the Minnesota Lynx,” she said at the time. “I believe that with the rising young talent on this team, the return of Seimone Augustus, and the additions we’ll make to the roster this offseason, the time is now for the Lynx to be the best in the West. I have spent the last four WNBA seasons competing for championships and look forward to doing the same with the Lynx.”

The Lynx went 13-21 in their first season with Reeve with the helm, but improved immensely in 2011, going 27-7 and winning the WNBA championship. Additionally, Reeve won coach of the year.

Reeve’s hiring was a turning point for the franchise and brought Minnesota to where they are today. It’s easy to forget how important Reeve is—she doesn’t spend much time talking about herself—but make no mistake, she’s one of a kind.