Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve has become the winningest coach in WNBA history, surpassing Mike Thibault with 380 career victories.
Cheryl Reeve Claims WNBA All-Time Wins Record
Cheryl Reeve now holds the record for the most wins by a head coach in WNBA history. According to hosts Jackie Powell and Howard Megdal of The IX Sports Podcast, Reeve reached 380 wins to move past Mike Thibault.
The transition of the record carries a unique familial connection. Powell noted that Eric Thibault, son of Mike Thibault, currently serves on Reeve’s coaching staff. Megdal described conversations with Eric Thibault as “illuminating,” given his perspective on the achievements of both legendary figures.
WNBA All-Star Roster Controversies and Selection Logic
The official All-Star Game roster has sparked debate regarding player statistics versus coach perceptions. While Howard Megdal stated that no one on the roster “didn’t belong,” he argued that Veronica Burton and Nia Coffey were overlooked for the final cuts.
Jackie Powell questioned the inclusion of Dominique Malonga, suggesting it may reflect the respect coaches have for her as a player rather than raw data. Powell compared Malonga’s production to that of Alyssa Thomas, who is currently averaging near a triple-double. Powell noted that because the Phoenix Mercury and Seattle Storm are not winning teams, the selection process may partially function as a “popularity contest for the coaches.”
Amid these debates, Jonquel Jones spoke with Powell about her personal achievement of being named an All-Star for the sixth time.
Player Volatility: The Cases of Skylar Diggins and Chennedy Carter
Two recent examples involve Skylar Diggins of the Chicago Sky and Chennedy Carter, who was waived by the Las Vegas Aces.
Diggins recently voiced complaints regarding the Chicago Sky, specifically citing the lack of a new practice facility and her current status as a benched player. Howard Megdal analyzed this development by pointing to Diggins’ history, stating she has “worn out her welcome” at previous stops in Dallas, Phoenix, and Seattle.
Megdal applied a similar critique to Chennedy Carter following her release from the Aces. He argued that when a player with Carter’s skill level repeatedly faces these circumstances across different teams, the issue lies with the player rather than the organizations. Megdal stated he wishes Carter would “get out of her own way” to achieve the career her talent warrants.
Comparison of Player Transitions
| Player | Recent Event | Context/Analysis (via IX Sports) |
|---|---|---|
| Skylar Diggins | Benched by Chicago Sky | Pattern of friction across 25% of the league’s teams. |
| Chennedy Carter | Waived by Las Vegas Aces | High skill level offset by recurring interpersonal challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the winningest coach in WNBA history?
Cheryl Reeve of the Minnesota Lynx is currently the winningest coach with 380 victories.
Why is Skylar Diggins in the news?
Diggins has reported being benched by the Chicago Sky and has publicly criticized the team’s lack of a new practice facility.
What happened to Chennedy Carter?
Carter was waived by the Las Vegas Aces this week.
Is the WNBA All-Star selection based solely on stats?
While stats are vital, analysis from The IX Sports Podcast suggests that coach respect and popularity also play a role in the final roster.
What do you think about the current trend of high-profile players struggling with team fit in the WNBA? Do you believe the league is becoming more demanding of player chemistry? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into women’s professional sports.