- Cheryl Reeve: Is She the Greatest Coach in WNBA History?
When it comes to women’s basketball, Cheryl Reeve is a name that stands out. She’s a coach who has led the Minnesota Lynx to multiple championships and built one of the most successful teams in WNBA history. But is she truly the best coach the league has ever seen? Let’s take a closer look at her life, career, and why so many people believe she’s the greatest.
Who Is Cheryl Reeve?
Cheryl Reeve has been the head coach and general manager of the Minnesota Lynx since 2010. Under her leadership, the team has won four WNBA titles. Born on September 20, 1966, Cheryl has spent her entire life around basketball, from playing in college to becoming one of the most successful coaches in the league.
Cheryl Reeve’s Early Life and Family
Cheryl grew up in Washington Township, New Jersey. She was passionate about sports from a young age and played basketball throughout her school years. She attended La Salle University, where she played for their women’s basketball team. Though we don’t know much about Cheryl Reeve’s parents, it’s clear they supported her love for basketball, as Cheryl’s career path was all about the game from the start.
Coaching Career
Cheryl started her coaching journey as an assistant coach at George Washington University. After that, she worked with several WNBA teams before getting her big break as the head coach of the Minnesota Lynx in 2010. Her early years weren’t easy, but in 2011, she led the Lynx to their first WNBA championship. It didn’t stop there—her team went on to win three more championships in 2013, 2015, and 2017.
What Makes Her So Good?
Cheryl Reeve is known for her defensive coaching style and emphasis on teamwork. She believes that a strong defense is the key to winning championships, and her record proves it. Players under her coaching often speak highly of her leadership, not just as a coach but as a mentor who builds a strong team culture.
She’s also won Coach of the Year four times (2011, 2016, 2020, 2023), which shows how consistently great she’s been throughout her career.
Cheryl Reeve’s Stats
Reeve’s coaching stats are impressive. She has over 260 career wins, putting her among the most successful coaches in WNBA history. What’s more, her teams have reached the playoffs in nearly every season she’s coached, showing that her leadership leads to success year after year.
Personal Life: Height, Weight, Family, and More
Fans often wonder about Cheryl’s personal life. She stands around 5 feet 6 inches tall. Her weight isn’t publicly known, but what really matters is her leadership, intelligence, and commitment to her players.
Cheryl is married to Carla Hines-Reeve, and together they have a son, Oliver. While she’s very private about her family life, Cheryl has talked about how important her family is to her, especially when balancing the demands of being a top coach.
Cheryl Reeve’s Salary and Net Worth
As one of the best coaches in the league, Cheryl Reeve earns a significant salary. While the exact amount isn’t available, top WNBA coaches can make around $500,000 or more per year. Cheryl’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million, thanks to her long and successful career in basketball.
Cheryl Reeve’s Legacy in the WNBA
Is Cheryl Reeve the greatest coach in WNBA history? Many would say yes, and with good reason. Her ability to build winning teams, develop players, and consistently lead her team to the playoffs puts her in a class of her own. She’s also a champion for gender equality in sports, using her platform to push for better pay and recognition for women athletes and coaches.
Her leadership has not only shaped the Minnesota Lynx but also set a standard for coaches across the league. Whether or not she’s the greatest in WNBA history is a question that will be debated, but her place among the all-time greats is secure.
FAQs About Cheryl Reeve
1. How old is Cheryl Reeve?
Cheryl Reeve was born on September 20, 1966, making her 58 years old in 2024.
2. What is Cheryl Reeve’s coaching style?
Cheryl is known for her defensive focus and team-first approach, emphasizing hard work, discipline, and communication.
3. How many championships has Cheryl Reeve won?
Cheryl Reeve has won four WNBA championships as the head coach of the Minnesota Lynx (2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017).
4. What is Cheryl Reeve’s salary?
While the exact figure isn’t public, top WNBA coaches, including Cheryl, are estimated to earn around $500,000 per year.
5. Who is Cheryl Reeve married to?
Cheryl is married to Carla Hines-Reeve, and together they have a son named Oliver.
6. What is Cheryl Reeve’s net worth?
Cheryl Reeve’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million.
7. Has Cheryl Reeve won Coach of the Year?
Yes, Cheryl has been named WNBA Coach of the Year four times—2011, 2016, 2020, and 2023.
8. What teams has Cheryl Reeve coached?
Cheryl has been the head coach of the Minnesota Lynx since 2010 and has previously served as an assistant coach for other WNBA teams.
9. How tall is Cheryl Reeve?
Cheryl Reeve’s height is around 5 feet 6 inches.
10. What makes Cheryl Reeve a great coach?
Cheryl’s leadership, ability to build strong teams, and defensive coaching style make her one of the best coaches in the WNBA.
Conclusion
Cheryl Reeve has left a lasting mark on the WNBA. From her early days as an assistant coach to becoming the head coach of a championship-winning team, her journey has been one of resilience and success. Her four championships, numerous Coach of the Year awards, and strong leadership have cemented her legacy as one of the greatest coaches in WNBA history.
Her story isn’t just about wins and losses. It’s about how she’s changed the way teams are coached, how she’s fought for equality in sports, and how she’s inspired a new generation of basketball players and coaches. Cheryl Reeve’s legacy will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come, and whether she’s the greatest WNBA coach or not, there’s no doubt she’s among the best.