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What to Know About Women’s Basketball Today
1. The Lynx Are the First Team In ✅
The playoff picture is starting to come into view. The Minnesota Lynx became the first team to clinch a spot in the 2026 WNBA playoffs, while the Seattle Storm were officially eliminated from postseason contention. (Bleacher Report)
WHY IT MATTERS: There are still 10 to 14 games left for every team, but the field is starting to separate. Minnesota has locked up the first of eight spots, and with Seattle out, we’re getting a better idea of who is likely to join the Lynx. The teams currently above the playoff line have built some breathing room, while the teams chasing them are running out of time to make a push.
🗳️ Who will be the next team to clinch a playoff spot?
2. Betnijah Laney-Hamilton Goes to Washington 👏
That was quick. Betnijah Laney-Hamilton has a new team just days after the New York Liberty waived her. The Washington Mystics claimed the veteran off waivers and released rookie Rori Harmon to make room. (ESPN)
WHY IT MATTERS: Washington is tied with Atlanta for the No. 5 playoff spot and has won seven straight, so this is a chance to add an experienced player as the Mystics push for home-court advantage in the first round. Laney-Hamilton has championship experience and is a two-time All-Defensive Team selection. The Mystics also hope to bring Harmon back on a developmental contract if she clears waivers.
3. Kayla McBride Stands Alone From Three 🎯
McBuckets just put herself in the history books. Kayla McBride made a WNBA-record 10 three-pointers and finished with 43 points in Minnesota's win over Dallas on Sunday. (ESPN)
WHY IT MATTERS: McBride is in her 13th WNBA season, and this record fits the career she has put together. The 5x All-Star has averaged more than 14 points per game over her career, and she has been one of the league's most reliable three-point shooters. She does not always get the same national attention as some of her peers, so a 43-point night that puts her alone in the record book is a pretty good reminder of just how good she has been.
🐾 Make Your Pet Playoff Ready Too
The Lynx are headed to the playoffs, so make sure every fan in the house is ready. Our Minnesota pet bandanna lets your four-legged Lynx fan join the fun, with designs for other WNBA teams available too.
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OVERTIME ⏱️
Sweet 16: Kelsey Mitchell has scored 20+ points in 16 straight games, setting the WNBA record for the longest such streak within a single season.
Swan Song: Rebecca Allen confirmed on the Under the Sportlight podcast that this will be her final WNBA season, closing out an 11-season career.
Stars Sit: Head Coach Becky Hammon opted to sit A'ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray against the Liberty on Sunday, and the Aces lost 111-71. Hammon cited the need for rest with the team playing back-to-back games.
🗳️ Poll Results from Friday: We asked which major international competition newcomer you're most excited to see, and it was close call. Caitlin Clark led with 40% of the vote, while Paige Bueckers was right with 35% of the vote.
