NEW YORK (AP) - Maya Moore isn't going anywhere.
Two people familiar with the deal told The Associated Press that she was given the franchise tag by the Minnesota Lynx for the upcoming WNBA season.
It's no real surprise that the five-time All-Star won't hit the free-agent market.
Moore has helped the Lynx to four WNBA titles, winning the Finals most valuable player award in 2013. The following season she was named league MVP.
Top unrestricted free agents include Lyinx players Rebekkah Brunson and Seimone Augustus, who are both expected to stay in Minnesota.
Chelsea Gray (Los Angeles) and Natalie Achonwa (Indiana) are the top two restricted free agents. Their current teams are allowed to match any offer they get from another club.
Teams can start to negotiate with their own restricted and unrestricted free agents Tuesday, but deals may not be finalized until Feb. 1.
Financial constraints tend to limit bidding wars - and thus player movement - in the WNBA. The league knows a more active free agency period could draw increased interest from the casual fan.
Free agency this year could be impacted by the fact that WNBA players exercised their right to terminate their collective bargaining agreement after the 2019 season, cutting the deal short by two years. With the unclear situation when it comes to salaries in the new CBA, players may be hesitant to sign long-term deals.
