Nika Muhl injury: Seattle Storm shares latest status of rookie's ACL recovery

Nika Muhl announced in May 2024 that she would play in the Turkish Women’s Basketball Super League (KBSL) during the WNBA offseason. While suiting up for Besiktas, she tore her ACL and the meniscus in her left knee in a game against Fenerbache. Muhl’s overseas stint prematurely ended in early October.

The Seattle Storm, Muhl’s WNBA team, released a statement for their fans:

“Muhl underwent successful surgery on Friday, November 1 to repair the ligament and meniscus and is taking steps towards a healthy recovery. Updates on her progress and return to play will be made public when available.”

The former UConn star played 27:48 minutes against Fenerbache before the injury. She exited in the third quarter after tallying 11 points, three rebounds and nine assists. Besiktas lost the game 79-63.

Following the surgery, Nika Muhl shared a photo on Instagram to show the huge braces around her knee. She captioned the post:

“Day 1 featuring Mad Max & G 🦿lets get it.”

Muhl reportedly needs at least six months to be ready to play again, making her status for the start of the 2025 WNBA season uncertain.

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Nika Muhl wrote a lengthy Instagram message following her injury

The torn ACL and left knee meniscus tear were brutal but Nika Muhl was in high spirits following the injury. She went on Instagram to write a long letter to herself and her fans:

“Anyone that knows me knows I work my ass off all the time. This time isn’t gonna be any different. I appreciate all the love and support so much - yall really make this easier for my heart. I am grateful for all the people around me that are true testaments of what belief and perseverance can achieve after being denied hooping."

“This is just another opportunity for me to compete, this time against myself. Not to be cocky, but that’s an easy W.”

Muhl played sparingly for the Storm in her rookie year. She hardly had anything in her box score while averaging just 3.6 minutes in 16 games. However, her coach and teammates always raved about her work ethic and maturity. She is confident of an “easy W” because of those traits.