The final chapter of Sylvia Fowles' storied WNBA career began Tuesday when the Minnesota Lynx announced they had re-signed the two-time WNBA Champion and Finals MVP.
The Lynx then announced it would in fact be Fowles' final WNBA season.
Terms of the deal weren't released. Fowles, who is entering her 15th season, earned her fourth WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2021 and joined Tamika Catchings as the only only player to ever win the award at least four times.
“There are a few reasons why I chose to play another year”, Fowles said in a news release. “The main reason for my return had a lot to do with our fans. I wanted to make sure I gave them the opportunity to see me play my final season. It feels right that my playing career finishes in Minnesota; there's nowhere else I'd rather be.”
Fowles, who was acquired by the Lynx in a three-team trade in 2015, is a seven-time all-star and earned the league's MVP award in 2017.
“I cannot understate our appreciation for not only Sylvia Fowles the basketball player, but more importantly, Sylvia Fowles the person,” said Lynx Head Coach and General Manager Cheryl Reeve. “Her loyalty and belief in our franchise is beyond measure. I am thrilled that Syl is returning to the Lynx for her final season in the WNBA and look forward to her continuing to etch her mark as the greatest center in WNBA history.”
2021 saw Fowles also win her fourth Olympic gold medal with Team USA as they competed in Tokyo.
“Sylvia is a franchise leader both on and off the court and her heart is such a big part of this Minnesota family and fanbase,” said Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx owner Glen Taylor. “We are elated that she will spend her final year with the Lynx and look forward to celebrating Syl and her illustrious career throughout the season.”
