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What to Know About Women’s Basketball Today
1. The Liberty Are Commissioner's Cup Champions Again 🏆
New York is back on top. The Liberty defeated the Las Vegas Aces 93-85 on Tuesday to win the 2026 Commissioner's Cup. Breanna Stewart was named MVP after posting 25 points and 11 rebounds, while Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu combined for 51 points. (ESPN)
WHY IT MATTERS: This was a rematch of the 2023 Commissioner's Cup championship, and once again the Liberty took home the top prize. New York is now the first team to win the in-season tournament twice. Along with the trophy, Liberty players will each receive a $30,000 bonus, and the team's chosen charity, the African American Policy Forum, will receive an additional $10,000.
2. Most WNBA Teams Get a Breather This Week 😮💨
There was a consolation prize for those that didn’t make the Commissioner’s Cup championship game - they got a breather. Most WNBA teams have been off since Monday, and get a short break before regular games pick back up on Thursday.
WHY IT MATTERS: A few days without games can make a big difference during a long season. Several teams have had jam-packed schedules already, and this time allows players a chance to recover. Meanwhile coaches can evaluate what has worked and what needs to change. Be on the lookout for which teams come back rejuvenated, making this most of this unique opportunity.
🗳️ After the break, do you expect the standings to...
3. A Division II Star Earns National Recognition 👏
Talk about a Maverick. Minnesota State's Natalie Bremer has been named the 2025-26 Division II Honda Athlete of the Year, recognizing the top athlete across every Division II sport. (The Collegiate Women Sports Awards)
WHY IT MATTERS: Bremer averaged 21.8 points per game, became Minnesota State's all-time leading scorer across both the men's and women's programs, and finished sixth nationally in scoring. Division II athletes don't always receive the same attention as Division I stars, making awards like this an important way to celebrate outstanding seasons.
📬 The July Issue Is Headed Out Today
Today I'm sending out the July issue of The Post-Up Club to members across the country. If you'd like to receive next month's mailing, complete with a personally written letter and women's basketball-themed paper extras, I'd love to have you join us for August.
OVERTIME ⏱️
Big Shots: Marina Mabrey and Natasha Howard earned WNBA Player of the Week honors for Week 7.
Oh, Canada: Michigan star Syla Swords became Nike's first Canadian NIL basketball athlete.
Looking Back: Tina Charles reflected on what went into her decision to retire after 14 WNBA seasons.
🗳️ Poll Results from Yesterday: We asked you if the Valkyries are serious title contenders this year and many of you are impressed with this team, with 66% of you saying “Definitely”. V’s up, Valks fans!
