Two of Cheryl Reeve’s top lieutenants are leaving the Lynx to pursue other opportunities, the team announced Monday.
CEO Clare Duwelius to serve as CEO and executive vice president of Unrivaled, the basketball league created by Lynx forward Napheesa Collier and Liberty forward Breanna Stewart, which is expected to begin play in January.
Duwelius has been with Minnesota’s WNBA franchise since 2014 and was named the team’s general manager in 2022, working side-by-side with Reeve to build the Lynx roster.
“Clare has been tireless in her efforts to support the Lynx players and staff in her roles,” Reeve said in a statement. “We will miss her and wish her well as she embarks on this new journey.”
Assistant coach Katie Smith is leaving to take the same position at Ohio State, her alma mater. The former Lynx star joined the organization as an assistant coach in 2020 and was elevated to associate head coach in 2022.
“Katie has been an integral part of the Lynx since her return in 2020. She has poured her heart and soul into developing the Lynx team and its players into a championship contender once again,” Reeve said in a statement. . “His passion, commitment and loyalty left an indelible mark on the organization. Even as she embarks on a new adventure with the Buckeyes, Katie will always be a Lynx and we wish her the best in her new role.
