Seattle Storm guard Nika Muhl faces another lengthy rehabilitation after suffering her second ACL tear in less than two years, an injury that occurred during international competition and will force her to miss the entire 2026 WNBA season.
The 24-year-old Croatian national team player sustained the injury on March 11th while representing her country in the FIBA Women's EuroBasket Qualifiers. This marks the second major knee setback for Muhl since beginning her professional career.
Support poured in from across the basketball community, including from Muhl's former University of Connecticut teammate Paige Bueckers. After Muhl posted a hospital selfie following her surgery, Bueckers responded with encouragement in the comments section.
"Two new and improved knees incoming," Bueckers wrote, adding three smiling emojis.
This injury represents another significant challenge early in Muhl's professional journey. She previously missed the 2025 WNBA season after injuring her left knee in 2024, making this her second major knee procedure since entering the league.
Bueckers, who has maintained a close relationship with Muhl since their collegiate days, offered similar support during Muhl's first ACL recovery. The two developed a strong on-court partnership during their time at UConn, where Muhl established herself as one of the program's most effective playmakers.
"Nothing my twin can't overcome. Gonna destroy this comeback journey! God speed," Bueckers wrote following Muhl's initial injury.
Bueckers brings personal experience to her support, having missed the entire 2022-23 NCAA season with her own ACL injury. The two guards formed a formidable backcourt partnership at UConn, with Muhl finishing her collegiate career as the program's all-time assist leader.
The Seattle Storm selected Muhl with the No. 14 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, but her professional career has been limited to just 16 games due to persistent knee issues. Her latest injury occurred while competing for Croatia in international play, highlighting the physical demands placed on athletes who represent both club and country.
The basketball community continues to rally around Muhl as she begins another challenging rehabilitation process. Her connection with Bueckers remains strong, with both players understanding the mental and physical toll of major knee injuries firsthand.
As Muhl focuses on recovery, the Storm organization must plan for her extended absence while hoping their young guard can eventually return to the form that made her a first-round draft selection and record-setting collegiate playmaker.
