MINNEAPOLIS -- The nameplate on the door, at the end of a long hall overlooking the court in the University of Minnesota's new practice facility, reads, "Lindsay Whalen, Head Basketball Coach." Walk in and your eyes go right to the coffee table, where Whalen's eight WNBA and international championship rings and four Olympic and world championship gold medals are on display.
The coach stands behind a wide desk. Practice starts in about an hour, but she's already dressed for it, in a new maroon Gophers hoodie and gray sweatpants. Whalen leans back in her chair and puts her feet on the desk like a CEO, smiling that can-you-believe-it smile of someone still reveling in her good fortune.