The WNBA’s third week featured a mix of action-packed days and quiet breaks, giving fans five days of intense gameplay followed by two days without any games. While many followers had to wait eagerly for more action during the holidays, the scheduling affected teams differently.
Satou Sabally from the Mercury pointed out the heavy game load, noting that 9 games in 18 days isn’t really the commissioner’s responsibility. Her comments came right after Phoenix’s fourth game of the week and as the team reached 10 games earlier than other league members.
This season, each WNBA team is scheduled to play a record 44 games, with no indication that the schedule will become shorter. Despite it being early in the season, injuries are already rampant, lending weight to concerns like Sabally’s. The league should consider adjusting future schedules to help manage this issue. The injury-plagued Mercury played just two games this week.
The Commissioner Cup was a major storyline during the week. Phoenix had four cup games, while most other teams had two or three. The Liberty and Lynx remain undefeated in their respective cup standings; coincidentally, these two teams were the last two Cup champions—Minnesota won last year in New York. Both teams used their Commissioner Cup success as momentum for their WNBA Finals runs, eventually falling short. As the 2024 Finals approach, it’s unclear if some teams might disrupt this expected pattern.
Several seasoned veterans sustained strong early season performances, surprising fans with their continued impact deep into their careers. Erika Wheeler averaged 10 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4 assists, becoming a key offensive presence for the Storm in her debut season. Odyssey Sims had a standout 32-point game, thriving quietly as a dependable combo guard. Kelsey Plum shined during her second stint with the Sparks, while Bria Hartley emerged as a starter for the Sun, helping them secure early wins.
Week three left plenty to discuss, and the upcoming games promise more. As most teams pass the quarter mark of the season, early data is becoming too significant to ignore.
This week’s top five games included:
Golden State Valkyries @ Los Angeles Sparks (Mon, June 9, 10 PM WNBA League Pass)
After a big 27-point win over the Aces snapped a losing streak for Golden State, they face the Sparks, who also bring plenty of talent with star scorer Kelsey Plum and versatile players Carla Raitt and Janelle Surrrown. This match promises an exciting showdown.
Indiana Fever @ Atlanta Dream (Tue, June 10, 7:30 PM ESPN3 & WNBA League Pass)
The Fever and Dream meet for the third time this season, both having won on the road in earlier matchups. Even with injuries, these teams remain competitive, with standouts like Rhyne Howard and Alicia Grey elevating the Dream’s championship hopes.
Minnesota Lynx @ Seattle Storm (Wed, June 11, 10 PM WNBA League Pass)
The Lynx look to extend their 9-0 start as they seek redemption for last season’s Finals loss. Led by MVP-caliber Naphessa Collier, they face a tough, veteran Storm team ready for a big contest.
Los Angeles Sparks @ Minnesota Lynx (Sat, June 14, 1 PM CBS)
Though key veterans like Candace Parker and Sylvia Fowles are gone, the Sparks and Lynx rivalry brings plenty of talent and history. After a double-digit loss early in the season, the Sparks will aim to turn things around against the dominant Lynx.
New York Liberty @ Indiana Fever (Sat, June 14, 3 PM ABC)
The fierce rivalry continues as the Liberty and Fever face off on national TV. With both teams delivering thrilling, close games earlier in the season, and stars like Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones leading New York, this matchup promises high stakes and intense competition.
Fan Take: This report highlights how the WNBA’s demanding schedule and rising injuries are shaping the league’s competitive landscape, emphasizing the need for balance between intense competition and player welfare. Basketball fans should watch closely as these developments could influence the sport’s future growth and the sustainability of star talent.
