Lynx’s Odyssey Sims discusses parenthood, WNBA

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 25: Odyssey Sims #1 of the Minnesota Lynx drives against Courtney Vandersloot #22 of the Chicago Sky during their game at Target Center on May 25, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Lynx defeated the Sky 89-71. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 25: Odyssey Sims #1 of the Minnesota Lynx drives against Courtney Vandersloot #22 of the Chicago Sky during their game at Target Center on May 25, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Lynx defeated the Sky 89-71. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images)

Earlier this winter, the WNBA world was surprised when reports suggested Lynx all-star Odyssey Sims could miss the 2020 season.

With Maya Moore gone at least one more season and the departures of Danielle Robinson and Seimone Augustus, the Lynx needed Sims’ ball-handling abilities more than ever.

Rumors speculated over the reason for Sims’ absence but she never made a public announcement regarding her decision. That was going to have to be good enough for everyone on the outside.

In a recent interview with the Star-Tribune, Sims revealed she gave birth to her first child sometime in April. Sims seems to be doing well navigating this new territory in her life and enjoying the experience. Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve has noticed a positive difference in Sims since becoming a mother, most notably a greater maturity in her voice.

Sims’ plans for 2020

There were two nuggets that pertain to Sims’ possible role with the 2020 Minnesota Lynx.

First, Sims nor Reeve would confirm the guard would miss this season. Whether Sims plays depends on her recovery and when the season starts. A later start to the season could increase the likelihood of Sims donning a Lynx jersey in 2020.

Yet, no one could blame her if she decided to spend the rest of the calendar year focusing on her son. Time will tell when we next see Sims play basketball.

When Sims is activated, she must complete a two-game suspension for her drunk driving arrest last June. Regardless, Sims will miss at least two games for the Lynx this season.

Once all that is sorted out, it sounds like Sims looks forward to getting on the floor again when the time is right. Whenever she does, the Lynx will welcome her with open arms. Aside from Lexie Brown, Sims will get to know her new backcourt running mates even better.

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