Consider it or not, it’s time for WNBA motion to renew! The break was lengthy for individuals who didn’t play within the Olympics, however for individuals who did take part in Paris, the grind will proceed.
On Thursday, now we have three video games scheduled as we start the ultimate push in the direction of the playoffs. The Chicago Sky host the Phoenix Mercury at 8 p.m. ET (Prime Video). On the similar time, the Minnesota Lynx might be dealing with off in opposition to the Washington Mystics on the Goal Middle (ESPN 3). Lastly, the Los Angeles Sparks will face the title-contending New York Liberty contained in the Crypto.com Enviornment at 9 p.m. ET (ESPN).
Angel Reese is enjoying once more
The Chicago Sky (10-14) have been one of many largest surprises this WNBA season. Angel Reese has been even higher than marketed, Chennedy Carter has revitalized her profession and the Sky are at present holding on to the eighth and ultimate playoff spot.
The staff on the rise will face a Phoenix Mercury (13-12) squad trying to see if they’ve sufficient firepower to make another Finals run with Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner. They’re not only a dynamic duo, as Kahleah Copper is part of a “Large 3” in Phoenix. If something, she leads the cost, averaging a team-high 23.2 factors per recreation.
The Mercury at present sit in sixth place within the standings, however a lot can change between now and the top of the season. Each groups need this win to higher their playoff odds and get off on the proper foot post-Olympic break.
Lynx dynasty
The Minnesota Lynx (17-8) internet hosting the Washington Mystics (6-19) ought to end in a simple win for the house staff. They’re too good and stacked for Washington to compete with, participant for participant or collectively as a staff.
The excellent news for the Mystics is that they’re comparatively wholesome, with simply Didi Richards formally dominated out. Maybe, now wholesome and given the prolonged break, they will shock Napheesa Collier and the Lynx and pull off the upset.
Coastal elites
NY vs. LA, a battle as outdated as time itself. Sadly for the Los Angeles Sparks (6-18), they arrive into this contest with simply six wins on the season, whereas Sabrina Ionescu and the New York Liberty (21-4) have a league-high 21 victories.
Just like the Mystics, the Sparks must play above and past their anticipated output to guard their residence courtroom and win. Something can occur in only one recreation, however I believe the Liberty will make an announcement and remind everybody why they’re the highest seed within the league.
Sport info
Chicago Sky (10-14) vs. Phoenix Mercury (13-12)
When: Thursday, August 15 at 8 p.m. ET
The place: Wintrust Enviornment in Chicago, IL
The best way to watch: Prime Video, Mercury Dwell
Sky damage report: Elizabeth Williams (out; knee)
Mercury damage report: Rebecca Allen (out; proper hamstring), Charisma Osborne (out; left decrease leg)
Minnesota Lynx (17-8) vs. Washington Mystics (6-19)
When: Thursday, August 15 at 8 p.m. ET
The place: Goal Middle in Minneapolis, MN
The best way to watch: ESPN 3, Bally Sports activities North Additional
Lynx damage report: none
Mystics damage report: Didi Richards (out; proper Achilles)
Los Angeles Sparks (6-18) vs. New York Liberty (21-4)
When: Thursday, August 15 at 9 p.m. ET
The place: Crypto.com Enviornment in Los Angeles, CA
The best way to watch: ESPN
Sparks damage report: Cameron Brink (out; left knee), Lexie Brown (out; Crohn’s illness), Aari McDonald (out; proper foot), Stephanie Talbot (out; proper foot)
Liberty damage report: Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (out; proper knee)
