Sponsored by
Did someone share this email with you? Get daily womenâs basketball updates straight to your inbox. Sign up here!
What to Know About Womenâs Basketball Today
1. Team USA Wins 3x3 World Cup Gold đĽ
Team USA is bringing home gold again. The quartet of Joyce Edwards, MiLaysia Fulwiley, Mikaylah Williams, and Sahara Williams defeated Australia 21-20 in Sunday's FIBA 3x3 Women's World Cup final after Mikaylah Williams knocked down a clutch two-point shot with 30 seconds left. Earlier in the day, Team USA punched its ticket to the championship game with a 19-18 overtime win over Azerbaijan. (USA Basketball)
WHY IT MATTERS: This is a big moment for USA Basketball's 3x3 program. The Americans won gold in 2023, but before this year's title run they had failed to medal in five of the previous six World Cups. With this year's title, the United States now owns four Women's 3x3 World Cup gold medals. Mikaylah Williams was named tournament MVP, becoming just the second American woman to earn the honor after Cameron Brink in 2023.
2. Commissioner's Cup Race Heats Up đ
After the first week of Commissioner's Cup play, the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty sit atop the standings. Minnesota is a perfect 3-0 in Cup play, while New York is 2-0 as teams continue competing for a spot in the June 30 championship game.
WHY IT MATTERS: These games count twice. Every Commissioner's Cup matchup also counts toward a team's regular-season record, so there is a lot on the line each night. Teams also earn money for their charity partners with every Cup win, and the championship team will split a $500,000 prize pool. With about a week and a half left in Cup play, every game is hugely important.
3. Toronto's Veteran Backcourt Is Delivering đ°
Brittney Sykes and Marina Mabrey are making the most of their fresh start in Toronto. Sykes is averaging a career-best 19.6 points per game and now owns the record for most points scored by an expansion player through her first 11 games. Mabrey is also having the best scoring season of her career at 18.5 points per game.
WHY IT MATTERS: Expansion teams create opportunities, and few players have taken advantage of one quite like Sykes and Mabrey. Both arrived in Toronto as respected veterans, but they're becoming the faces of a franchise while helping the Tempo to a 6-5 start. Earlier this season, they also became the first teammates in an expansion team's inaugural season to each score 30 or more points in the same game.
đ¤ From Our Partners: We occasionally share sponsored resources our readers might enjoy:
Find your balance this spring (free gummies!)
The sun is finally here, and itâs the perfect time to reset your routine.
Whether youâre gearing up for a weekend hike, a quiet park day, or just some well-deserved relaxation at home, Lazarus Naturals has everything you need to feel your best. Our CBD gummies are crafted to help you find your center, no matter what your spring (and almost summer) looks like.
Grab your free gummies and choose from any of our bestselling 10-packs. Just pay $4.99 for shipping!
OVERTIME âąď¸
Simmering Rice: Toronto Tempo rookie Kiki Rice is expected to miss at least a few weeks after suffering an ankle injury on a layup attempt.
Wow Moment: Don't miss this remarkable 360-degree highlight from Mikaylah Williams during this weekend's 3x3 World Cup action.
đłď¸ Poll Results from Friday: We asked where Kelsey Mitchell ranks among today's WNBA guards. Fifty-five percent of you placed her in the top three, while another 42% put her in the top 10. That's a strong vote of confidence for one of the WNBA's most consistent guards.
