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What to Know About Womenâs Basketball Today
1. The All-Star Teams Are Official â
The 2026 WNBA All-Star teams are officially set after honorary general managers Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon made their selections on Wednesday. Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark earned captain honors as the two leading fan vote-getters, while Becky Hammon and Cheryl Reeve will coach the teams. The All-Star Game tips off July 25 at 8:30 PM ET on ABC. (WNBA)
Pick | Team Spoon | Team Coop |
|---|---|---|
1 | Caitlin Clark | Paige Bueckers |
2 | Aâja Wilson | Breanna Stewart |
3 | Olivia Miles | Kelsey Mitchell |
4 | Aliyah Boston | Natasha Howard |
5 | Jessica Shepard | Gabby Williams |
6 | Rhyne Howard | Angel Reese |
7 | Allisha Gray | Marina Mabrey |
8 | Jonquel Jones | Dominique Malonga |
9 | Courtney Williams | Kelsey Plum |
10 | Kiki Iriafen | Jackie Young |
11 | Nneka Ogwumike | Sonia Citron |
Coach | Cheryl Reeve | Becky Hammon |
WHY IT MATTERS: The All-Star draft always creates storylines before the game even tips off. This year's teams split up WNBA teammates like Paige Bueckers and Jessica Shepard, reunite former college teammates like A'ja Wilson and Allisha Gray, and create some exciting new matchups.
đłď¸ Which All-Star team are you rooting for?
2. The Valkyries Just Keep Winning đĽ
The Golden State Valkyries are officially the hottest team in the WNBA after beating the Indiana Fever on Wednesday for their eighth straight win and fifth consecutive road victory. They're just the second team in WNBA history to go undefeated on a road trip of five or more games, and at 17-7, they now sit alone in second place behind the Minnesota Lynx. (Yahoo Sports)
WHY IT MATTERS: For a team in just its second season, the Valkyries have become one of the league's biggest surprises. They don't rely on one superstar to carry them. Instead, they've built one of the WNBA's best defenses, lead the league in made three-pointers, and continue to prove that a deep, connected roster can compete with anyone. Right now, they look like a legitimate title contender.
3. A'ja Wilson, Lauren Betts Earn ESPY Honors đ
Women's basketball had a big night at the ESPYs. Lauren Betts won Best College Athlete in Women's Sports, while A'ja Wilson took home both Best WNBA Player and Best Athlete in Women's Sports. (ESPN)
WHY IT MATTERS: The ESPYs are one of the biggest nights in sports, celebrating the year's top athletes across every league. Because the ceremony takes place during the WNBA season, many players aren't able to attend. Betts was there in person and used her acceptance speech to encourage others to prioritize their mental health, a cause she's become a passionate advocate for.
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OVERTIME âąď¸
Quick Scare: Olivia Miles needed help off the court with an apparent ankle injury Wednesday night, but she later joined the Lynx's postgame line dance. Hopefully that's a good sign she won't miss any time.
Dedicated Home: A new womenâs sports bar, One of Us, officially opens today in San Diego.
Pheeâs First: Jordan Brand unveiled Napheesa Collier's first-ever Player Exclusive sneaker, the "Queen Phee" Heir Series 2.
đłď¸ Poll Results from Yesterday: We asked whether you're in favor of the All-Star Draft format with Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon making the selections, and it looks like most of you are. 46% said you think the draft is a lot of fun.
