
Lynx Gear Up for Playoff Push with Defensive Focus
The Minnesota Lynx are treating their final nine games as a sprint before the WNBA break, emphasizing defense and experience from star Kayla McBride as they chase playoff positioning.
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The Minnesota Lynx are treating their final nine games as a sprint before the WNBA break, emphasizing defense and experience from star Kayla McBride as they chase playoff positioning.

A look at how modern wing defenders are challenging traditional big‑man dominance for the league’s top defensive honor.

Despite an average age of just 24.1, the Washington Mystics have vaulted into playoff contention thanks to a defense that ranks among the league’s best, even as their offense sputters.

Atlanta Dream forward Naz Hillmon is navigating a challenging season marked by shoulder and hamstring setbacks, yet her leadership and determination remain unshaken.

Brionna Jones is set to make her season debut on July 16 in Toronto after a meniscus injury, bringing a boost to the Atlanta Dream’s struggling interior defense.

Sydney Johnson’s emphasis on joy, togetherness and emotional growth has turned a youthful Washington Mystics squad into a playoff contender, earning praise from players and fans alike.

The Connecticut Sun have instituted a focused development program for their emerging post players, enlisting veteran mentorship from Brittney Griner and a supportive staff to accelerate skill acquisition and game readiness.

The Toronto Tempo attracted 20,996 fans to its first game in Montreal, where Marina Mabrey, Paige Bueckers and Jessica Shepard shone, and veteran Kayla Alexander made a notable return.

Cheryl Reeve's 380th win marks a historic milestone in the WNBA, reflecting decades of dedication, mentorship, and a coaching philosophy centered on process over personal accolades.

A five‑game losing streak under Karl Smesko has put the Atlanta Dream in unfamiliar territory, but All‑Stars Angel Reese, Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard are rallying the squad, while the anticipated return of Brionna Jones and the addition of veteran Shatori Walker‑Kimbrough offer hope.

The latest episode of The IX Sports Basketball Edition recaps the Liberty’s win over the Aces, Stewart’s standout performance, the suspension of Thomas amid racist threats, and upcoming podcasts for women’s sports fans.

In a recent conversation, Talia Goodman reflects on her journey from stage to sports journalism, the challenges of covering the women’s transfer portal, and the impact of her reporting on the broader landscape of college basketball.

Sydney Taylor, an undrafted free agent, has transformed her overseas experience into a breakout WNBA season with the Chicago Sky, blending soccer footwork, disciplined goal‑setting, and family support to become a key offensive weapon.

After seven years in Minnesota, Jessica Shepard signed a two‑year, seven‑figure deal with the Dallas Wings and is now delivering career‑best performances that have her in the conversation for the WNBA All‑Star game.

After an 3‑12 start and an eight‑game skid, the Storm have begun to click offensively, but defensive lapses remain. A matchup with the Portland Fire offers a chance to reignite the Cascadia rivalry and reset the team's momentum.

Despite arriving late to camp, Noémie Brochant has quickly become a cornerstone for the Phoenix Mercury, blending defensive grit with offensive efficiency.

After a celebrated 16‑year run at ESPN, LaChina Robinson is charting a new chapter at NBC Sports and Amazon Prime Video, where she continues to champion women’s basketball and mentor the next generation through her Rising Media Stars initiative.

The Connecticut Classics 2, nicknamed Big Red, has amassed over 175 medals and six consecutive National Senior Games titles. Led by captain Jean Trimboli, the team blends former WBL professionals with seasoned athletes, travels extensively, and prepares for upcoming state tournaments, a Greece tour, and a national showdown in Tulsa.

Charlisse Leger-Walker, the first Māori and New Zealand woman drafted to the WNBA, discusses how her cultural upbringing, family legacy, and the tribal ownership of the Connecticut Sun shape her approach to basketball and her mission to inspire future generations.

Jacy Sheldon, a versatile guard for the Chicago Sky, embraces her role amid injuries, trades, and family proximity, aiming to cement a lasting presence in the WNBA.

A look at how Sarah Ashlee Barker’s journey from Birmingham to Portland has been shaped by family, competition, and a supportive new environment.

Chris DeMarco, the newly appointed head coach of the New York Liberty, navigates criticism and embraces WNBA culture as he prepares for the 2026 season.

The Dream opened the season with two wins, but heavy reliance on starters and a weak bench raise questions ahead of a demanding stretch.