2025 was slated to be a career year for Napheesa Collier even before she suited up. During a preseason voting, 67% of the WNBA GMs predicted her to pull away with the MVP crown. Then add a returning starting lineup from the previous year, and you have got a unanimous nod. And as the season progressed, the UConn alumna lived up to it. She led the Lynx, and led them to the top of the table with every game. Maybe A’ja Wilson threatened to defend her throne along the way, but Phee’s impact isn’t going unnoticed.

As the 27th edition of the NBA 2K gears up for early access on August 29, 2025, Collier is beaming with pride. The star forward is averaging a league-high 23.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Besides, her shooting record stands at 53.7% in the paint and 36.8% from beyond the arc. So it was no surprise that the NBA 2k rated her as much as they did for their latest release. Sue Bird couldn’t wait to get Collier’s reaction to it.

Talking to the Lynx star on the latest episode of her podcast, Bird revealed, “Okay, Phee, we’ve got a little surprise for you. Did you know you’re going to be the highest-rated WNBA player in the NBA 2K26 at launch?” Collier was aware of the development. “I did get a call from Ronnie today, actually. It’s awesome. I’m so excited.”

The NBA 2k rated Collier 98, overcoming A’ja Wilson, who sits second with 97. Being the best player on the best team in the league, the 2024 DPOY has turned some heads this season. She, in fact, opened the season with a record 34-point performance — the highest for game 1. Although Kelsey Plum broke it hours later, Collier gave a taste of the season ahead. She is leading the league in scoring and ranks among the top 10 in rebounds, steals, and blocks.

So when Bird asked her thoughts on the rating, Collier had a surprising answer, and befitting perhaps. “I asked him why I wasn’t a 99, but he said, ‘We’ll re-evaluate after the season.’ I was like, ‘Okay, if we win or if I get MVP, I want that 99.’ And he said, ‘Maybe.’ So, we’ll see,” she shared. NBA 2k better be ready to upgrade because that scenario is very much likely to transpire.

As of August 20th, Collier still leads the MVP odds at -325. A’ja Wilson, second again, with +450, is threatening to take over, thanks in part to her historic 30/20 double-double, second-most 30-point performances, and the Aces’ 9-game winning streak. However, at 29-7, Lynx are still the team to beat. However, there’s one thing hindering Collier’s case we can’t ignore.

Time running out for MVP Napheesa Collier

Despite being the best player on the best team, Collier can hold on to her spot in the MVP race only so long after injury. History says, no player has won MVP after missing over 15% of the regular season. Having missed her 10th game against Indiana Fever, Collier has already been out for over 20%. Cheryl Reeve is expecting her back by September 11th, but other players are already closing in.

We have heard A’ja Wilson’s case. In putting up consistent masterclass performances, the 3x MVP has led the Aces down from 6th spot ahead of All-Star weekend to 3rd with 7 games left. Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas is another name who has remained in talks throughout the season.

With her odds reading +600, Thomas is one to watch out for. The forward is averaging 16.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, and career-best 9 assists, for a Mercury team sitting 5th on the table. She has also managed to record 5 triple-doubles this season– something no other player has managed throughout their careers. Preseason had Caitlin Clark in the talks, but her injuries forced her away long back. So clock is ticking for Napheesa Collier. Will she get her 99 rating or is her injury going to derail the momentum?