What happened: The Minnesota Lynx have extended a Core qualifying offer to forward Napheesa Collier, according to @WNBADaily. The core designation is the WNBA's mechanism for a team to retain its top free agent at a maximum salary, signaling Minnesota's intent to lock in its centerpiece.

Why it matters: Collier is the foundation of the Lynx's roster, and retaining her removes the most significant question hanging over their offseason. Securing her keeps Minnesota positioned as a contender rather than facing a rebuild around her departure.

What to watch: Watch for Collier's formal response to the offer and how the move shapes the rest of Minnesota's roster decisions heading into the season.