MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Lynx, in partnership with UnitedHealthcare and Special Olympics Minnesota, today announced the signing of 11 honorary team members to the 2025 “Jr. Lynx Dream Team.” Youth from Highland Park Middle School in St. Paul make up the team.

The special day tipped-off with an introductory press conference with Timberwolves and Lynx Chief Impact Officer Jennifer Ridgeway before signing their honorary one-day contracts with Lynx Head Coach and President of Basketball Operations Cheryl Reeve. The Jr. Lynx Dream Team members participated in a Media Day photoshoot and a “Player for a Day” initiative, where each youth was paired with a Lynx player during practice.

The day also marked one year out from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, which will take place in the Twin Cities next June. More than 4,000 athletes and 1,500 coaches representing all 50 states will engage in 16 Special Olympics team and individual sports.

“At UnitedHealthcare, we believe in the power of inclusion and the importance of creating opportunities for every individual to shine,” said Bobby Hunter, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement. “The Jr. Lynx Dream Team is an amazing example of what happens when we come together to celebrate ability, confidence, and community. We’re proud to support this incredible partnership with the Minnesota Lynx and Special Olympics Minnesota.”

“We are so grateful to have partners like the Minnesota Lynx and UnitedHealthcare that believe in the power of inclusion in sports,” said Mark Anderson, Vice President Development Relations, Special Olympics Minnesota. “The impact they are making in the lives of Special Olympics athletes and Unified partners will live on long after this season. Sports brings people together and we are excited to introduce the Jr. Lynx Dream Team to the state!”

“We are honored to host the Jr. Lynx Dream Team in partnership with UnitedHealthcare and Special Olympics Minnesota,” said Ridgeway. “This program underscores the powerful influence of our team’s platform and reflects our commitment to community impact.”

The Jr. Lynx Dream Team program strives to build confidence and instill a passion for the game, while providing mentorship to its members throughout the season. The Jr. Lynx Dream Team will be honored on-court during a special halftime recognition on Friday, Aug. 8 when the teams plays the Washington Mystics.  

Minnesota’s next game is on Saturday, June 21 vs. the Los Angeles Sparks with tipoff scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT. Tickets are available at www.lynxbasketball.com/ticketsor by calling 612-673-8400.