MINNEAPOLIS – The newest member of the Minnesota Lynx, Sylvia Fowles, was all smiles during Saturday’s practice session. The 6-foot-6 former Defensive Player of the Year, despite only joining the team in late July, appeared as if she had been a member of this team’s core for years.

The circumstances for Fowles arriving in Minnesota were well-documented, but for Fowles, it was just about finding the right fit.

“My vision started out this way,” said Fowles, who sat out the first half of the season while under contract with the Chicago Sky. “We had some bumps along the way, but during the process it kept me humble and kept me focused and definitely made me appreciate the position that I am in.”

Fowles has certainly helped the Lynx get to this position — the franchises’ fourth WNBA Finals appearance in five years. Fowles gives the Lynx the size at the center position that they have been lacking for years and her effort — 28 rebounds, five blocks in two games — against Brittney Griner and the Phoenix Mercury in the Western Conference Finals was instrumental in the Lynx earning the sweep.

While the Lynx certainly appreciate Fowles’ contributions, Fowles is equally appreciative of being able to play in this system.

“When I started looking at different teams I tried to figure out where I’d fit into a system that’s already established and where I
could fit in without being the focal point and Minnesota was that team,” Fowles said. “(Minnesota) always needed a back-to-the-basket player and I always felt like I fit well in this system.”

In fact, it was the perfect fit that might explain the smiles on her face.

“I don’t have to overthink anything and it makes it better when you have so many people around capable of doing what they do best.,” she said. “It
takes a lot of pressure off my shoulders.”