Kiki Iriafen knew the Washington Mystics could be a playoff team from the very beginning.  The ro...

<p>Kiki Iriafen knew the Washington Mystics could be a playoff team from the very beginning.</p><p>The rookie forward had a sense of their potential based on the collective mentality they brought into the campaign.</p><p>"We've always believed in ourselves, regardless of what (preseason) rankings said, what other people said," Iriafen told reporters, including theScore, during media day at WNBA All-Star Weekend.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We had such a belief in our core. Everybody was super selfless and bought into the mission that our coach had for us. So I don't think we're surprised at all with the way that we're playing, and we'll only get better in the second half of the season."</p><p>Washington has nearly exceeded its win total from a year ago. The team sits one game back<strong> </strong>of the WNBA's eighth and final playoff spot entering Friday's showdown against the league-leading Minnesota Lynx.</p><p>The Mystics selected Sonia Citron and Iriafen with the third and fourth overall picks, respectively, in this year's WNBA draft. Both players have served as major catalysts for the franchise's quick turnaround.</p><p>Citron has established herself as an effective 3-and-D guard, knocking down 36.9% of her attempts from deep and routinely taking on the opposition's top perimeter threats. She plays with a cool, calm demeanor and never seems to be frazzled by the moment. Whether it's making a timely pass or backdoor cut, Citron consistently does a great job of reading and reacting to the defense.</p><p>Meanwhile, Iriafen's relentless motor has made her a handful on the glass. The 6-foot-3 forward ranks fourth in total boards (238) and broke the Mystics' rookie record for double-doubles in a season. Iriafen's rim-running, face-up jumper, and driving ability give Washington's offense more options.</p><p>Citron and Iriafen were rewarded for their strong first half, becoming just the second pair of rookie teammates in league history to be selected as All-Stars.</p><p>"It's been amazing going through this with Soni," Iriafen said. "She's like a built-in sister. Built-in best friend. And we truly care about each other. Whenever she's successful, I feel like I'm successful.</p><p>"So just doing this whole thing together, I'm not nervous because I'm like, 'If anything goes wrong, I have Soni right next to me.' So I'm excited to be on this journey with her."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/cropped_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796400/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221386536.jpg?ts=1754073975 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NBA Photos / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Citron and Iriafen have grown close since joining the Mystics organization last April. They sit next to each other on team flights, go out for food on road trips, and make TikTok videos together.</p><p>Washington's guard-post tandem have even bonded through their shared love for Afrobeats. Citron has West African roots through her mother, while Iriafen is of Nigerian descent.</p><p>Iriafen believes all of the time they've spent together outside of basketball has improved their connection on the court.</p><p>"Soni's just super smart," Iriafen said. "Sometimes she sees things that I don't even see. She's (pointing with her eyes) and I'm like, 'What?' And she's like, 'Go backdoor!' But she's just very selfless, and I think our chemistry has gotten better just hanging out off the court."</p><p>Georgia Amoore, the No. 6 overall pick in this year's WNBA draft, is also part of the tight-knit group of Mystics rookies. However, the 5-foot-6 point guard has yet to suit up after sustaining a season-ending ACL injury less than a week into training camp.</p><p>It was a difficult way to start her career, but Amoore takes solace in the support she's received from Citron and Iriafen.</p><p>"They've been the best for me in my rehab process," Amoore said. "They give me a lot of energy. We got drafted (together) and immediately clicked. From there, it's just been wonderful.</p><p>"I'm very grateful because a situation like that is very rare to come by. To have such a young core that actually gets along and enjoys each other like that."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/cropped_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796576/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211989567.jpg?ts=1754319084 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Stephen Gosling / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Citron and Iriafen say Amoore has been equally helpful as they navigate their own challenges during their first WNBA campaign.</p><p>Iriafen described Amoore as the team's "Energizer Bunny," providing constant encouragement throughout games. Meanwhile, Citron appreciates being able to tap into Amoore's perspective from the bench.</p><p>"She's still very present with our team," Citron said. "Always there at practice. Always there at games. ... I'll always ask her what she sees during a game and what I can be doing better. But she's definitely still very much part of the team. We don't feel like she's missing a beat."</p><p>Amoore recently served as a coach at the third annual Basketball Without Borders Global women's camp hosted by the NBA, WNBA, and FIBA as part of WNBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis.</p><p>You could see the kind of contributions her teammates credited whenever Amoore pulled a player aside for a quick word, gave directions from the sidelines, or simply cheered her players on.</p><p>She said coaching 40 of the top high school-age prospects from outside the United States was a "good opportunity" to step back and see the game through a different lens. The Aussie floor general has approached her first year as a pro in the same manner, observing Iriafen and Citron's playing styles and envisioning how she'll fit alongside the dynamic duo.</p><p>"I've been watching a lot of Kiki. It's always good when you have a post-guard connection like that," Amoore said. "I've played against Sonia for three years (in college), so I know what she likes. I know she's a great cutter. I know that she just goes with the flow and attacks when needed.</p><p>"I'm super excited to be able to eventually play with them. ... It's just a point guard's job to figure it out and be an addition rather than just being out there with them. To elevate each other."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/cropped_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796584/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216876183.jpg?ts=1754328283 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ethan Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>All three rookies credit first-year head coach Sydney Johnson for making their transition to the WNBA as smooth as possible.</p><p>Johnson's attention to detail and passion for the game reminds Amoore of her college coach, Kenny Brooks. The Kentucky product finds it easy to communicate with Johnson and appreciates the way he keeps her engaged as she continues to rehab.</p><p>Iriafen admires the way Johnson prioritizes their mental health. He's gotten to know each of his players on a personal basis and regularly checks in to make sure they're OK.</p><p>Johnson has taught Citron that each win and loss isn't the be-all and end-all that it might've been in college.</p><p>The young Mystics have adopted that mindset, and it's helped them stay grounded in their pursuit of a postseason berth and success beyond this year.</p><p>"He's a coach that truly never gets too high or too low. I really love that about him just because you don't really know what's going on as a rookie. ... He's really the one that we follow when we have a bad loss or great win," Citron said. "I think it really helps just seeing him be so level-headed and calm."</p>

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Iriafen, Citron fast-tracking Mystics' playoff push

The Boston Celtics signed head coach Joe Mazzulla to a multi-year contract extension, the team an...

<p>The Boston Celtics signed head coach Joe Mazzulla to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Friday.</p><p>"We are very excited that Joe has agreed to extend with the Celtics," Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens said in a statement. "He understands the job and has a passion for the Celtics that is only rivaled by our most die-hard fans."</p><p>Mazzulla took over for Ime Udoka in September 2022 on an interim basis after the latter was suspended for the entire campaign for engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a Celtics female employee.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Mazzulla was named the team's permanent head coach in February 2023 after guiding the Celtics to an NBA-leading 42-17 mark at the All-Star break.</p><p>The 37-year-old led the Celtics to their record-breaking 18th NBA title during the 2023-24 campaign. He holds a 182-64 record over three seasons at the helm and has posted back-to-back 60-win campaigns.</p><p>"This is truly a blessing," Mazzulla said in a statement. "I would not be here without my faith, my wife, and my children. We are thankful for the partnership with our ownership groups, Brad (Stevens') mentorship, and the support of our staff.</p><p>"Most importantly, I am grateful for the players I have been able to coach the past three seasons. I look forward to competing for the Celtics and the city of Boston."</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 12: Head coach Joe Mazzulla of the Boston Celtics against the New York Knicks during the first half in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 12, 2025 in New York City.

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Celtics sign Mazzulla to multi-year extension

The Washington Mystics traded forward Aaliyah Edwards to the Connecticut Sun for guard Jacy Sheld...

<p>The Washington Mystics traded forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121623" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121623">Aaliyah Edwards</a> to the Connecticut Sun for guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121636" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121636">Jacy Sheldon</a> and a 2026 first-round swap right, the teams announced Thursday.</p><p>Washington now has the option to swap the Minnesota Lynx's 2026 first-rounder for the New York Liberty's first-round pick in the same draft.</p><p>"We are excited to welcome Jacy to the Mystics and think her skill set, energy, and team-first approach will be a great fit for us," Mystics general manager Jamila Wideman said in a statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"She is a competitor and leads through the example of her work ethic. She has built on her solid rookie campaign and demonstrated an ability to shoot the ball and read the game on both ends of the court."</p><p>Washington drafted Edwards sixth overall a year ago. The UConn product showed promise during her rookie campaign, averaging 7.6 points and 5.6 boards across 34 appearances.</p><p>However, Edwards was sidelined earlier this season with a back injury and fell behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/102670" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/102670">Shakira Austin</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/171756" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/171756">Kiki Iriafen</a> in the Mystics' crowded post rotation.</p><p>"Bringing Aaliyah to the Connecticut Sun is more than just a roster move; it's a statement about where we're headed as a franchise," Sun general manager Morgan Tuck said in a statement. "Aaliyah is a transformational talent with the mindset and drive that aligns with our vision of building a championship culture."</p><p>Sheldon gives the Mystics another ball-handler after they traded away All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27663" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27663">Brittney Sykes</a> on Tuesday. Sheldon, an Ohio State product, averaged 7.5 points over 28 appearances this season and ranks 10th in the WNBA with a 41.2% clip from deep.</p><p>Washington's outside shooting has been a glaring weakness; the team is last in the league with 5.3 threes per contest.</p>

COLLEGE PARK, GEORGIA - AUGUST 03: Aaliyah Edwards #24 of the Washington Mystics look on against Atlanta Dream during fourth quarter at Gateway Center Arena on August 3, 2025 in College Park, Georgia.

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Mystics trade Edwards to Sun for Sheldon, swap draft rights

Norman Powell is looking forward to a fresh start with the Miami Heat.  "They've talked about how...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/12144" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/12144">Norman Powell</a> is looking forward to a fresh start with the Miami Heat.</p><p>"They've talked about how much they've wanted me and liked my game throughout the years and they've tried to get me," Powell told <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article311573872.html">Anthony Chiang of The Miami Herald</a>. "So to come to a place that values you and wants you here and understands what you bring to the table and wants you to be you, you can't be upset or mad about that at all."</p><p>Miami acquired Powell from the Los Angeles Clippers in July as part of a three-team trade that also involved the Utah Jazz.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The UCLA product said the news was shocking since he was coming off a career year and had been in talks with the Clippers' front office about a potential contract extension.</p><p>However, Powell believes the Heat are a perfect fit for him.</p><p>"They've welcomed me with open arms," Powell said. "I'm very excited about the opportunity. I'm very excited about the group that we have, I'm very excited about what they're building.</p><p>"I think the Heat culture and what this organization is about is me to a tee. It's exactly how I am. I'm built on competitiveness. I'm built on working. I'm built on the grind. That's my motto, understand the grind. That's my daily approach and I think I'm built for the Heat culture."</p><p>Powell spent parts of the last four campaigns with the Clippers. The 32-year-old finished fourth in Sixth Man of the Year voting twice during his tenure in L.A.</p><p>Powell averaged a career-high 21.8 points on 48.4% shooting last season in his first full year as a Clippers starter. His 41.8% clip from deep was the 17th-best mark in the Association.</p><p>Powell's set to become a free agent next summer.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CA - MAY 3: Norman Powell #24 of the LA Clippers dribbles the ball during Round One, Game Seven of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Denver Nuggets on May 3, 2025 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Powell: Heat understand what I bring to the table

A group led by Boston Celtics minority governor Steve Pagliuca has agreed to a deal with Connecti...

<p>A group led by Boston Celtics minority governor Steve Pagliuca has agreed to a deal with Connecticut Sun ownership to relocate the WNBA team to TD Garden as soon as 2027, sources told <a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/08/02/sports/connecticut-sun-move-boston-pagliuca/?s_campaign=bostonglobesports%3Asocialflow%3Atwitter">Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe</a>.</p><p>Pagliuca will reportedly pay a record $325 million for the franchise and contribute $100 million for a new practice facility in Boston.</p><p>The purchase would be the highest-ever sale price for a professional women's sports franchise.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Mohegan Tribe, which has owned the Sun since 2003, has been looking to sell the club, and the offer from Pagliuca's group sped up the process, adds Washburn.</p><p>All sales for a WNBA franchise must be approved by the league and its board of governors. The WNBA apparently prefers to have Boston serve as a possible expansion city in 2033, Washburn reports.</p><p>"As part of our most recent expansion process, in which three new franchises were awarded to Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia on June 30, 2025, nine additional cities also applied for WNBA teams and remain under active consideration," a WNBA statement <a href="https://x.com/GwashburnGlobe/status/1951708295791595570">said</a>, according to Washburn.</p><p>"No groups from Boston applied for a team at that time, and those other cities remain under consideration based on the extensive work they did as part of the expansion process and currently have priority over Boston."</p><p>If the league forces the Tribe to keep the team in-state, it'll abide by the WNBA's wishes, a source told Washburn. However, the Tribe has chosen to sell the Sun to Pagliuca's Boston-based group and has been determined to find the most lucrative offer, Washburn notes.</p><p>Connecticut has played a pair of sellout contests at TD Garden in the past two years.</p><p>The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire will join the WNBA next season. The league is also adding teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia in the coming years to bring the total number of teams to 18 in 2030.</p>

UNCASVILLE, CT - MAY 18: A general view of the Connecticut Sun logo before a WNBA game between the Washington Mystics and the Connecticut Sun on May 18, 2025, at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.

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Report: Sun relocating to Boston as soon as 2027 in record-breaking sale

The Sacramento Kings offered Jonathan Kuminga a three-year, $63-million contract as part of a pot...

<p>The Sacramento Kings offered <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> a three-year, $63-million contract as part of a potential sign-and-trade deal that would send <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53736" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53736">Malik Monk</a> and a lottery-protected 2030 first-rounder to the Golden State Warriors, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6529661/2025/08/01/jonathan-kuminga-warriors-nba-free-agency-qualifying-offer/">The Athletic's Sam Amick</a>.</p><p>The Warriors would get the least favorable 2031 first-round pick of the Kings or San Antonio Spurs if the draft selection didn't convey in 2030, Amick added.</p><p>Golden State reportedly wants the first-round pick to be unprotected, however, which has resulted in a stalemate.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Phoenix <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3317832" href="https://thescore.com/news/3317832">apparently</a> proposed a four-year deal worth close to $90 million to Kuminga. However, there's been no progress in talks between the Suns and Warriors as the latter has no interest in Phoenix's trade assets, Amick reports.</p><p>Kuminga, a restricted free agent, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3317832" href="https://thescore.com/news/3317832">reportedly</a> turned down a two-year, $45-million offer from the Warriors that featured a team option for the second season. The forward has until Oct. 1 to sign Golden State's one-year, $7.9-million qualifying offer.</p><p>Monk has been one of the NBA's top reserve players since joining the Kings, averaging 15.3 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.1 boards across 214 appearances over the last three seasons.</p><p>The Kentucky product was second to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69736" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69736">Naz Reid</a> in Sixth Man of the Year voting in 2023-24. The guard also had a fifth-place finish during the 2022-23 campaign.</p><p>Monk averaged a career-high 17.2 points on 43.9% shooting last season.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - APRIL 28: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings during Round 1 Game 6 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs on April 28, 2023 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE

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Report: Kings offering Monk in potential sign-and-trade for Kuminga

Restricted free-agent forward Jonathan Kuminga rejected a two-year, $45-million contract offer fr...

<p>Restricted free-agent forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96094" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96094">Jonathan Kuminga</a> rejected a two-year, $45-million contract offer from the Golden State Warriors, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/45859355/sources-jonathan-kuminga-declining-warriors-offer-terms">ESPN's Shams Charania and Anthony Slater</a>.</p><p>Kuminga reportedly passed on the new deal largely because the Warriors insisted on a team option for the second season and weren't willing to let him keep the no-trade clause that he'd be entitled to.</p><p>The former No. 7 overall pick and his agent have reportedly explored sign-and-trade scenarios, including significant negotiations with the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns for close to $90 million over four years. Phoenix made the most lucrative offer, Charania and Slater report.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, the Warriors aren't impressed by what the Kings and Suns are offering and have begun indicating they plan to cut off sign-and-trade talks entirely, sources told Charania and Slater.</p><p>The forward is reportedly enticed by playing elsewhere as Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has made it clear that he won't be playing big minutes consistently.</p><p>Kuminga has until Oct. 1 to sign Golden State's one-year, $7.9-million qualifying offer.</p><p>The 22-year-old is a product of the inaugural G League Ignite team. He's shown flashes of potential, but his playing time has fluctuated throughout his four-year tenure in the Bay Area.</p><p>He averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 boards, and 2.2 assists across 47 appearances last season.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 14: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors handles the ball during the first quarter of Game Five of the Western Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on May 14, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Report: Kuminga rejects 2-year, $45M offer from Warriors

Chris Paul had his heart set on the Los Angeles Clippers from the beginning of free agency.  "It ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/314" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/314">Chris Paul</a> had his heart set on the Los Angeles Clippers from the beginning of free agency.</p><p>"It was a no-brainer," Paul <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1949967784567324893">told</a> reporters Monday at his introductory press conference.</p><p>Paul added, "The easiest decision in this ... is my family. Getting a chance to be around them. Be around a lot more. And get a chance to compete and play for a championship."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Paul first thought about a return to L.A. when he helped the Phoenix Suns clinch a Finals berth on the Clippers' home floor three years ago.</p><p>The 40-year-old says he remembers looking up at the arena box suites and seeing all the Clippers personnel that had become "extended family" over his six seasons with the franchise.</p><p>"I wanted to get back and play here by any means necessary," Paul <a href="https://x.com/NBA/status/1949973716093260098">said</a>. "I didn't even care what the team looked like. I just wanted to be home. Be here with the Clippers.</p><p>"I'm just so excited about the moves that the team has made this offseason. ... I'm even more excited about what I think we have a chance to do."</p><p>Paul spent the prime of his career with the Clippers, earning six NBA All-Defensive first-team nods, five All-Star selections, and making the All-NBA first team on three occasions. He remains the organization's all-time leader in assists and ranks second in steals.</p><p>Paul joins a formidable core featuring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/351" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/351">James Harden</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52287" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52287">Ivica Zubac</a>.</p><p>The Clippers also added three-time All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11887" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11887">Bradley Beal</a>, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45122" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45122">John Collins</a>, and veteran big man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/300" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/300">Brook Lopez</a>.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 12: Chris Paul #3 of the Los Angeles Clippers stands on the court during a game against the Washington Wizards at the Verizon Center on December 12, 2014 in Washington, DC.

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CP3: 'It was a no-brainer' to return to Clippers

Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink plans to make her season debut Tuesday against the Las V...

<p>Los Angeles Sparks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/121610" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/121610">Cameron Brink</a> plans to make her season debut Tuesday against the Las Vegas Aces, she told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://x.com/johnwdavis/status/1949922371420483787">John W. Davis of the LB Press-Telegram</a>.</p><p>Brink hasn't played since June 2024, when she sustained a torn ACL in the opening minutes of a loss to the Connecticut Sun.</p><p>"I'm just very excited. Very humbled by this experience. It's no easy thing to come back from," Brink said.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Los Angeles drafted Brink with the No. 2 overall pick in 2024. The Stanford product showed promise as a rookie, averaging 7.5 points, 5.3 boards, 1.7 assists, and 1.1 steals across 15 appearances last season.</p><p>Brink's 2.3 blocks per contest ranked second in the WNBA. The 6-foot-4 forward's return should help the Sparks' struggling interior defense.</p><p>Los Angeles has won five games in a row - including an upset of the New York Liberty - to put itself back in the playoff hunt.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 09: Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink (22) laughs after a play during the WNBA basketball game between the Las Vegas Aces and the Los Angeles Sparks on June 09, 2024, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA.

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Sparks' Brink to return from torn ACL vs. Aces

New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart exited Saturday's 101-99 defeat against the Los Angeles Spa...

<p>New York Liberty star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wnba/players/27502" href="https://thescore.com/wnba/players/27502">Breanna Stewart</a> exited Saturday's 101-99 defeat against the Los Angeles Sparks due to a lower leg injury, the team announced.</p><p>Stewart pulled up lame midway through the first quarter as she was running back on defense.</p><p>The two-time WNBA MVP subsequently signaled to the bench and was subbed out of the contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Breanna Stewart has been ruled out for the remainder of today’s game with a lower leg injury<br><br>(via <a href="https://twitter.com/LucasKaplan_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LucasKaplan_</a>) <a href="https://t.co/elXxJVpzj0">pic.twitter.com/elXxJVpzj0</a></p>— New York Liberty Videos (@SNYLiberty) <a href="https://twitter.com/SNYLiberty/status/1949254959058588087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello had no update on Stewart's injury after the contest, according to <a href="https://x.com/CraneAndrew/status/1949278600781341035">Andrew Crane of The New York Post</a>.</p><p>"Hopefully she'll be okay," the coach said postgame, per Crane.</p><p>Stewart finished three points and one rebound in three minutes of action.</p><p>The UConn product entered Saturday's game averaging 19 points, 6.8 boards, four assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks across 23 appearances this season.</p><p>Stewart earned her seventh career All-Star nod earlier this month.</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - JULY 22: Breanna Stewart #30 of the New York Liberty looks on during the game against the Indiana Fever during a WNBA game on July 22, 2025 at Barclays Center Arena in Brooklyn, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Stewie exits loss to Sparks with lower leg injury

Kansas head coach Bill Self was hospitalized Thursday after experiencing "some concerning symptom...

<p>Kansas head coach Bill Self was hospitalized Thursday after experiencing "some concerning symptoms," the school announced in a statement obtained by <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/1948530316181676494">CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein</a>.</p><p>Self underwent a heart procedure to insert two stents and is expected to make a full recovery.</p><p>The 62-year-old was released from the hospital Saturday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I want to thank all the amazing doctors and nurses at LMH Health for the excellent care I received during my stay there," Self said in a statement, per <a href="https://x.com/JonRothstein/status/1949197999097413752">Rothstein</a>. "I feel strong and am excited to be home. Our team has had a productive summer and look forward to our batteries being recharged and prepping for this upcoming season."</p><p>Self missed the 2023 Big 12 and NCAA Tournament due to a heart condition.</p><p>The Hall of Famer has spent the last 22 years with the Jayhawks, posting a 624-156 record and guiding the program to a pair of national championships.</p><p>Kansas inked Self to a lifetime contract extension in 2021.</p>

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND - MARCH 20: Head coach Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks looks on during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Amica Mutual Pavillion on March 20, 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island.

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Liam Draxl is beginning to put it all together ahead of his first main-draw appearance in singles...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///atp/players/9769" href="https://thescore.com/atp/players/9769">Liam Draxl</a> is beginning to put it all together ahead of his first main-draw appearance in singles play at an ATP tour-level tournament. </p><p>The Newmarket, Ontario, native enters the National Bank Open in Toronto ranked a career-high 115th in the world.</p><p>Draxl recently captured the Winnipeg National Bank Challenger to clinch a main-draw wild card into the Masters 1000 event as the "Road to the NBO" champion. He earned the coveted spot for accumulating the most ranking points among his compatriots at the Canadian-based competitions that preceded the nation's premier tennis tournament.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's unreal," Draxl told theScore of competing at the event he frequently attended as a kid. "It's great to play in Toronto. A true home crowd. I'm just super pumped.</p><p>"I've been slugging it out on the Challenger Tour a lot this year, so it's gonna be nice just to get a crack to play up a (level)."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/cropped_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w220xh124_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w320xh180_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w640xh360_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w768xh432_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795480/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1399763620.jpg?ts=1753409057 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Schwaberow / NCAA Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Draxl turned pro in June 2023 following a standout career at the University of Kentucky, where he became the NCAA's No. 1 men's singles player as a sophomore and a three-time Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) All-American.</p><p>The 23-year-old has spent most of his pro career on the second-tier Challenger circuit and third-tier ITF World Tennis Tour. Draxl finished his senior year with the Wildcats as the nation's 11th-ranked singles player, which allowed him to receive a maximum of eight qualifying spots for select Challenger events over the next 12 months as part of the ATP/ITA Accelerator Programme.</p><p>The collaborative program was established two years ago and has served as a launching pad for top collegiate players transitioning to the pros, including American star Ben Shelton. It's allowed Draxl entry into Challenger tournaments that he would've otherwise been unable to compete in.</p><p>"It's a huge help," he told theScore. "It's a good opportunity to just get points and hopefully accelerate your ranking a little bit ... It's such a grind starting out in the (ITF) Futures (tournaments). Not a lot of (prize) money. You're paying for your hotel. There's not a lot of (ranking) points on the line.</p><p>"But in Challengers, at least you're getting your hotel covered and you're playing for good points, especially when you're starting from scratch off college."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/cropped_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w220xh124_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w320xh180_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w640xh360_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w768xh432_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795488/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2196705817.jpg?ts=1753417337 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Draxl climbed up the ATP rankings over the next two years, relying on his speed and counter-punching style of play. The 6-foot-1 righty wears his heart on his sleeve and doesn't mind engaging in extended rallies from the baseline. That style helped him take home a pair of ITF titles and his first Challenger crown during his rookie year.</p><p>While Draxl dropped his lone Challenger final in 2024, he added three more ITF championships to his trophy cabinet during the latter stages of the campaign. He parlayed that positive momentum into a breakout 2025 season, posting a 39-13 mark and an ATP single-year record seven Challenger final appearances.</p><p>The grind through the lower-level ITF and Challenger Tour hasn't always been easy, but Draxl says it's helped build mental fortitude.</p><p>"Tennis is a tough sport," Draxl told theScore. "There's just so much losing. ... You just gotta keep trusting the process and keep fighting. Not giving up. Not getting too down on yourself when the results aren't going your way, and keep trying to get better every day.</p><p>"I try to compete as hard as I can every point. The results will eventually come. So I think it's just kind of trying to learn your lessons from the losses, and trying to apply what you did wrong in the last tournament into the new week."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DMFu3pTgJ0T/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DMFu3pTgJ0T/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Draxl lost his first five Challenger finals this season before finally breaking through in Winnipeg a few weeks ago, avenging a championship defeat in January to former World junior No. 1 Alexander Blockx.</p><p>The Canadian admits that his inability to get over the hump planted some seeds of doubt, but he entered his rematch against Blockx with a clearer mind.</p><p>"I've lost five (finals) already. So why be nervous? ... In a way, I tricked my brain as if I had nothing to lose," Draxl told theScore. "The worst possible outcome is what I've had. So I was like, 'Whatever, man. Just go for it.'</p><p>He's taking the same energy into his opening-round match against Spanish veteran Pablo Carreno Busta. He's looking to enjoy the moment on home soil and isn't putting much pressure on himself.</p><p>A maiden Masters 1000 main-draw victory would be a significant step toward his goal of cracking the ATP's top 100 by season's end and put him in position to secure a spot in the main draw of next year's Australian Open. But to get that desired result, Draxl knows he can't lose sight of the process that's got him to this point.</p><p>"I'm really not too much of an outcome-type of goal person," Draxl told theScore. "You just gotta focus on the tennis and let all the external factors just happen. Obviously, I want to be top 100. I'm close to that.</p><p>"But I gotta focus on my game and what I need to improve for that to happen."</p>

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Canada's Draxl in peak form ahead of National Bank Open debut

USC guard Alijah Arenas is expected to miss at least six-to-eight months after being diagnosed wi...

<p>USC guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaab/players/171932" href="https://thescore.com/ncaab/players/171932">Alijah Arenas</a> is expected to miss at least six-to-eight months after being diagnosed with a knee injury that will require surgery, the school announced Wednesday.</p><p>The five-star Trojans commit sustained a torn meniscus and could miss the entire 2025-26 campaign, sources told NBA insider <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1948167980875125058">Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>Arenas, the son of three-time NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, was the third-ranked shooting guard and No. 13 overall prospect on the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/rankings/scnext300boys/_/class/2025/order/true">ESPN 100</a> for 2025. The California native committed to USC over Kentucky, Louisville, and Arizona.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Arenas was expected to play a key role in helping the Trojans bounce back from a 17-18 campaign.</p><p>The knee injury is the latest setback for the McDonald's All-American. Arenas was involved in a car crash last April and placed into a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation. The 18-year-old suffered no major injuries in the accident, but spent six days in the hospital before being released.</p><p>Arenas participated in his first practice with USC earlier this month, according to <a href="https://x.com/jeffborzello/status/1948180779101499470">ESPN's Jeff Borzello</a>.</p>

BROOKLYN, NY - APRIL 01: McDonalds High School All American Alijah Arenas (16) shoots a free throw against Darius Adams (20) during the McDonalds Boys High School All American Game on April 1, 2025, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

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5-star USC commit Arenas to miss at least 6-8 months with knee injury

Belgian forward Emma Meesseman is joining the New York Liberty, sources told ESPN's Alexa Philipp...

<p>Belgian forward Emma Meesseman is joining the New York Liberty, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/45788364/sources-emma-meesseman-join-liberty-wnba-return">ESPN's Alexa Philippou</a>.</p><p>The 32-year-old reportedly also considered the Minnesota Lynx and Phoenix Mercury before committing to the defending champs.</p><p>The timing of Meesseman's arrival in the Big Apple depends on the processing of her visa application, Philippou added.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The two-time All-Star last played in the WNBA during the 2022 campaign with the Chicago Sky, averaging 12.4 points, 5.6 boards, 3.8 assists, and 1.4 steals across 36 appearances.</p><p>Meesseman spent her previous seven WNBA seasons with the Washington Mystics, capturing Finals MVP honors in 2019 after leading the franchise to its first championship.</p><p>Meesseman has been playing for Turkish club Fenerbahce since leaving the WNBA, winning three straight EuroLeague MVP awards during that span. She suited up for Belgium earlier this summer in EuroBasket.</p><p>Her decorated career also features six EuroLeague titles, five All-EuroLeague first-team selections, and a Turkish Cup Final MVP nod.</p>

Belgium's Emma Meesseman celebrates after winning a basketball match between Belgian national team 'the Belgian Cats' and Italy, in the semi-finals of the FIBA Women's EuroBasket tournament, Friday 27 June 2025 in Piraeus, Greece. BELGA PHOTO VIRGINIE LEFOUR

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Denver Nuggets center Jonas Valanciunas put any doubts about his NBA future to bed amid reported ...

<p>Denver Nuggets center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11051">Jonas Valanciunas</a> put any doubts about his NBA future to bed amid reported interest from Greek EuroLeague club Panathinaikos.</p><p>"I want to clear the air about my playing situation next season now that Denver has made their decision to keep me," Valanciunas told <a href="https://basketnews.com/news-228195-jonas-valanciunas-clears-the-air-on-his-future.html">Donatas Urbonas of BasketNews</a>. "The idea of playing for Panathinaikos - closer to home - was very exciting to me. But that will have to wait.</p><p>"I am fully committed to honoring my contract with the Nuggets this season and will give it my all to compete for a championship."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Denver acquired the 33-year-old big man from the Sacramento Kings earlier this summer in exchange for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37598" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37598">Dario Saric</a>.</p><p>However, there was some uncertainty about whether Valanciunas would play for the Nuggets after he reportedly traveled to Athens to meet with Panathinaikos.</p><p>Valanciunas has two seasons left on his NBA contract, but his $10-million salary for the 2026-27 campaign is non-guaranteed. The Lithuanian's contract with the Nuggets is binding, and the NBA franchise would have had to buy him out in order for him to join Panathinaikos this upcoming season.</p><p>He averaged 10.4 points, 7.7 boards, and two assists across 81 appearances with the Kings and Washington Wizards last season. He's expected to play a significant role in Denver as the backup to three-time MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a>.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 27: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Sacramento Kings reacts after a basket in the first quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Golden 1 Center on March 27, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

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Rickea Jackson has always been into fashion.  It was something the Los Angeles Sparks forward nat...

<p>Rickea Jackson has always been into fashion.</p><p>It was something the Los Angeles Sparks forward naturally gravitated to as the only girl in the family and growing up with three brothers.</p><p>Jackson embraced being different. The second-year player says she went through every fashion phase imaginable, even a gothic moment as a kid.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>With tunnel walks evolving into a popular pregame staple, Jackson is enjoying the chance to show another side of herself to fans.</p><p>"Coming into the league - or even in college - we tried the tunnel walk. It wasn't as popping as it is now," Jackson told theScore. "It has been pretty cool to experience, and I feel like it's just an expression of yourself through clothing."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793962/cropped_Rickea_7.jpg?ts=1752274471" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793962/w220xh124_Rickea_7.jpg?ts=1752274471 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793962/w320xh180_Rickea_7.jpg?ts=1752274471 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793962/w640xh360_Rickea_7.jpg?ts=1752274471 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793962/w768xh432_Rickea_7.jpg?ts=1752274471 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793962/w1080xh607_Rickea_7.jpg?ts=1752274471 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cheez-It</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jackson's latest foray into fashion is a collaboration with Cheez-It and renowned stylist and fashion designer Brittany Hampton.</p><p>Hampton, who has previously worked with Russell Westbrook and Paige Bueckers, teamed up with the food brand to create "Cheez-Fitz," a gender-neutral clothing collection that pays homage to her signature streetwear design style and the well-known snack.</p><p>Jackson will be wearing the custom collection, which consists of a windbreaker and pants.</p><p>"Partnering with Cheez-It and Brittany Hampton, whose styling I'm obsessed with, I'm just grateful for that opportunity," Jackson said. "Cheez-It is huge. Brittany is huge. Being able to collab with two amazing powerhouses is amazing.</p><p>"It's gender-neutral. So anyone can wear it. I just can't wait to let the fans see what everything is."</p><p>With this year's WNBA season nearing its midway point, theScore spoke with Jackson about Candace Parker's influence, leading a new era of Sparks basketball, and much more.</p><p><em>Note: This interview - in partnership with <a href="https://www.cheezit.com/en-us/home.html">Cheez-It</a> - has been edited for length and clarity.</em></p><p><strong>theScore: Your mother played basketball at Kansas. How influential was she in your basketball development?</strong></p><p><strong>Jackson:</strong> It is who I am. Having that basketball IQ has helped me a lot as a player. ... (My mom) didn't necessarily want to indulge in my career. There have been so many opportunities where she could've been my coach and trained me. But she wanted to be a mom. With basketball and parenting, sometimes that doesn't always go well. I could tell she never wanted that. She just wanted to put me in front of the right people so that I could grow on my own journey and figure things out on my own.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793128/cropped_GettyImages-2200658438.jpg?ts=1751739118" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793128/w220xh124_GettyImages-2200658438.jpg?ts=1751739118 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793128/w320xh180_GettyImages-2200658438.jpg?ts=1751739118 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793128/w640xh360_GettyImages-2200658438.jpg?ts=1751739118 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793128/w768xh432_GettyImages-2200658438.jpg?ts=1751739118 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793128/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2200658438.jpg?ts=1751739118 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>theScore: You took part in the inaugural Unrivaled campaign during the WNBA offseason and had some pretty talented teammates on Mist BC, including Breanna Stewart and Jewell Loyd. Did you strike a bond with any of your teammates, and what were your takeaways from that experience?</strong></p><p><strong>Jackson:</strong> I feel like our team was pretty close. We all just have really good personalities. I got to know each and every one of them on different levels. When we play each other, we show love. We still text every now and then in our Misties group chat. Playing with the greats. Just seeing their habits. What they do to get ready for the game. I feel like that was pretty cool to experience. The people that you look up to - just being able to say I played with them is nothing I take for granted.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793123/cropped_GettyImages-2218321807.jpg?ts=1751737832" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793123/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218321807.jpg?ts=1751737832 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793123/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218321807.jpg?ts=1751737832 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793123/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218321807.jpg?ts=1751737832 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793123/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218321807.jpg?ts=1751737832 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793123/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218321807.jpg?ts=1751737832 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Gonzales / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>theScore: How has playing alongside Kelsey Plum this season helped your development as a 3-point shooter?</strong></p><p><strong>Jackson:</strong> When Kelsey Plum is driving down the lane, the (opposing) team is going to collapse on her. So, just making sure I'm trying to be in her window so she can see me. Of course, she can make that shot as well, but I feel like KP has been doing a really great job of finding us and getting to her spots as well. Being able to play with someone with such a strong basketball mind and a very high IQ has been amazing. I feel like she's not (only) doing wonders for my game physically, but also mentally. Just gives me little nuggets, talking to me, giving me confidence, and things of that nature.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793119/cropped_GettyImages-2222082784.jpg?ts=1751736539" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793119/w220xh124_GettyImages-2222082784.jpg?ts=1751736539 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793119/w320xh180_GettyImages-2222082784.jpg?ts=1751736539 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793119/w640xh360_GettyImages-2222082784.jpg?ts=1751736539 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793119/w768xh432_GettyImages-2222082784.jpg?ts=1751736539 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793119/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2222082784.jpg?ts=1751736539 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Juan Ocampo / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>theScore: Candace Parker is the only Sparks player who scored more points than you during their rookie campaign. What's it like to be mentioned alongside someone you looked up to, as well as a fellow Tennessee Lady Volunteers alumna?</strong></p><p><strong>Jackson:</strong> To even be in the same conversation - as the great that she is - is nothing I will ever take lightly. She's an amazing player. But not only that, she's an amazing person. What she's done for the women's game. I feel like she made it cool for taller players to be able to handle the ball, shoot the ball, and play guard-like. She just had an all-around game. ... To kind of have a similar journey with her has been something that I truly cherish.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793114/cropped_GettyImages-2153610100.jpg?ts=1751733812" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793114/w220xh124_GettyImages-2153610100.jpg?ts=1751733812 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793114/w320xh180_GettyImages-2153610100.jpg?ts=1751733812 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793114/w640xh360_GettyImages-2153610100.jpg?ts=1751733812 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793114/w768xh432_GettyImages-2153610100.jpg?ts=1751733812 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793114/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2153610100.jpg?ts=1751733812 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>theScore: Cameron Brink was establishing herself among the WNBA's top rim-protectors before an ACL injury ended her rookie season early. How excited are you to have her back on the floor?</strong></p><p><strong>Jackson:</strong> I cannot wait to have Cam back. Just being able to play with someone with the defensive ability that she has - teams are afraid of her. Teams can't just make a regular layup on her. You probably have to do a step-through or pray that something else happens. Cam is very intimidating in that paint. You're not just going to get any shot over her. I feel like that's something that this team really needs. We've been doing a good job at filling those shoes, but I feel like Cam just brings another edge. What she has cannot be taught.</p><p><strong>theScore: You entered the league with Brink last season. Do you ever talk with her about how special it'd be to lead the Sparks back into the playoffs and competing for titles once again?</strong></p><p><strong>Jackson:</strong> We literally had that conversation draft night: What can we (potentially) do (together)? When we got here, our first week of training camp, we were talking about it again. ... That's something that we both have in mind. We want to bring them back to what they used to be.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 17: Rickea Jackson #2 of the Los Angeles Sparks reacts to a call in the second half against the Seattle Storm at Crypto.com Arena on June 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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INDIANAPOLIS - Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers will always be intertwined.  The future WNBA All-...

<p>INDIANAPOLIS - Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers will always be intertwined.</p><p>The future WNBA All-Star guards battled on the AAU circuit and came through the USA Basketball pipeline together, leading the Stars and Stripes to gold medals at the 2017 FIBA U16 AmeriCup and 2019 FIBA U19 World Cup.</p><p>After headlining a stacked 2020 recruiting class, Clark and Bueckers went on to enjoy decorated collegiate careers at Iowa and UConn, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Now, both are leading their clubs into new eras after being selected first overall in the WNBA draft.</p><p>Clark helped the Indiana Fever snap their seven-year playoff drought during her rookie campaign. Meanwhile, Bueckers' strong play is fueling the Dallas Wings' playoff push following a 1-11 start to her debut season.</p><p>Bueckers' early success comes as no surprise to Clark, who sees the same player she competed against and played alongside growing up.</p><p>"She takes what the game gives her," Clark told theScore before her first pro matchup against Bueckers. "Her (mid-range jumper) has always been as nice as it's been this year. She just plays way older than she is. She's confident. She's smooth. She does everything at a high level. Can score from all three levels. And that's how she's always played.</p><p>"That's obviously translated really well, and everybody knew that it would. ... She's never going to force anything. I think it's always been that, and she's just continued to stay true to that."</p><p>Bueckers was also complimentary of Clark, expressing respect for how the former Iowa star has handled the constant spotlight and expectations put upon her with grace.</p><p>But once the ball is tipped, the only thing on Bueckers' mind is doing whatever's necessary to win.</p><p>"We're competitors, but we're also friends," Bueckers told theScore pregame. "We root for each other. We want the best for each other. But when we step in between the lines, we're competing and we're trying to beat each other. ... It's a friendship between competition."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794165/cropped_GettyImages-2224322463.jpg?ts=1752439420" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794165/w220xh124_GettyImages-2224322463.jpg?ts=1752439420 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794165/w320xh180_GettyImages-2224322463.jpg?ts=1752439420 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794165/w640xh360_GettyImages-2224322463.jpg?ts=1752439420 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794165/w768xh432_GettyImages-2224322463.jpg?ts=1752439420 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794165/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2224322463.jpg?ts=1752439420 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Clark and Bueckers didn't waste any time leaving their imprint on Sunday's nationally-televised matchup, which saw the Fever prevail 102-83 over the Wings.</p><p>Clark knocked down a triple within the game's first minute before Bueckers answered with a 13-foot jumper a few possessions later.</p><p>Both players tallied seven points and two assists each in a tightly-contested opening frame.</p><p>However, Indiana broke things open with a dominant second-quarter performance, outscoring Dallas 36-15 and setting a new franchise record for points in a half (64).</p><p>Clark propelled Indiana on both ends of the floor. The reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year had five dimes in the second frame, delivering hit-ahead passes in stride to her teammates in transition. She used her gravity on drives to set up Natasha Howard and Aliyah Boston on a pair of dump-offs.</p><p>Clark also added a massive block on Wings rookie JJ Quinerly and had two of her career-high-tying five steals in the second quarter.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">BLOCK &amp; FULLCOURT DIME 🤯<br><br>this Caitlin Clark sequence is our Rush Bowls Play of the Game 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/nJBDLtTh9v">pic.twitter.com/nJBDLtTh9v</a></p>— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianaFever/status/1944451216429457801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Clark continued to make a defensive impact in the second half, picking off Bueckers on a pair of occasions in an uncharacteristic four-turnover afternoon for the former UConn standout.</p><p>"I still feel like I could've taken care of the ball better," Bueckers told theScore postgame. "Making the right read out of the trap, out of them sending a double (team), and then playing to that advantage. ... (Clark's) just a very smart basketball player, so she'll get out and deny passing lanes."</p><p>Bueckers still managed to lead all players with 21 points, demonstrating the same efficiency that made her a household name in college.</p><p>The Minnesota native showed off her entire offensive repertoire. She made a turnaround jumper in the post, created separation from defenders in the mid-range, flashed her 3-point range with a pair of makes from deep, and finished through contact at the basket.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">LET HER COOK! <a href="https://t.co/iMlqGqx5eU">https://t.co/iMlqGqx5eU</a> <a href="https://t.co/Mc9tBeHyFA">pic.twitter.com/Mc9tBeHyFA</a></p>— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) <a href="https://twitter.com/DallasWings/status/1944464686818156810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Bueckers kept her teammates involved, too, finding center Yi Leuru in the pick-and-pop and Quinerly on a backdoor cut. Even with the Wings down 21 points late in the third quarter, Bueckers continued to lead by example, closing out on Fever reserve Sophie Cunningham and subsequently taking a charge.</p><p>"I've always been a fan of hers and always been supportive," Clark said of Bueckers. "I watch as much as I can just because I love basketball. I love people who can compete and make their team better, and that's what she's always been able to do.</p><p>"I just admire the way she plays. I admire the confidence she has in herself. Every single night, she steps up to the challenge. She doesn't shy away from anything. As a competitor, that's what you really love. I think that's honestly what I appreciate the most." </p><p>The future of the WNBA is in great hands with Clark and Bueckers at the forefront.</p><p>A sold-out crowd of 17,274 was on hand at Gainsbridge Fieldhouse, with many young girls holding up signs and jerseys by the players' tunnel pregame in hopes of securing an autograph.</p><p>Over 20,000 fans are expected when the Fever and Wings square off Aug. 1 at American Airlines Center - the home venue of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks.</p><p>Clark and Bueckers pushed each other long ago as teenagers, and now they're hoping to elevate women's basketball to new heights together.</p><p>"To be able to live out our dreams in the WNBA and then continue to keep competing against each other. Continue to keep bringing the best out of each other. It's a dream come true," Bueckers said. "Anytime we can compete against each other, it's the highest form of respect."</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JULY 13: Indiana Fever Caitlin Clark (22) before the game hugs Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) on July 13, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Game recognizes game: Clark, Bueckers full of respect in 1st WNBA showdown

The Phoenix Suns signed Devin Booker to a two-year, $145-million max contract extension through t...

<p>The Phoenix Suns signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37815" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37815">Devin Booker</a> to a two-year, $145-million max contract extension through the 2029-30 campaign.</p><p>The deal carries the highest annual salary for an extension in NBA history.</p><p>Booker had three seasons remaining on his existing deal, but was eligible for an extension July 6.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"This moment means so much to me and my family," Booker said in a statement. "Ten years ago, my NBA dreams became reality when I was drafted here and Phoenix is my home. I love this city and am proud of what we have accomplished throughout my decade here. I am grateful to Mat Ishbia and the entire Phoenix Suns organization for the partnership. Thank you fans for your loyalty and support. More to come!!"</p><p>Phoenix selected Booker with the No. 13 pick in 2015. The Kentucky product has spent his entire career with the franchise, developing into a four-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection.</p><p>Booker led the Suns to their third Finals appearance in franchise history four years ago. The 28-year-old is the club's all-time leader in points and 3-pointers.</p><p>"Devin Booker is the embodiment of the Phoenix Suns, representing the best of our organization, our community and our future,” Suns owner Mat Ishbia said. "As the team's all-time leading scorer, his on-court achievements are unparalleled and the result of his relentless preparation and unwavering pursuit of excellence. </p><p>"His character, leadership and 'I'll do it' mentality define the standards and culture we uphold. Moreover, his connection with our fans is unique - his impact resonates across the Valley, and his tireless efforts in supporting Arizona's youth and families reflect the deep community bond we cherish."</p><p>He averaged 25.6 points and a career-high 7.1 assists across 75 appearances last season.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 7: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns celebrates during the game against the Utah Jazz on February 7, 2025 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Suns sign Booker to historic 2-year, $145M extension

The groups for the 2025-26 NBA Cup were announced Wednesday.  Each conference was divided into th...

<p>The groups for the 2025-26 NBA Cup were announced Wednesday.</p><p>Each conference was divided into three groups of five teams based on last season's records. West Group B notably features both <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>'s Los Angeles Lakers and the team that traded him away, the Dallas Mavericks.</p><p>The in-season tourney will begin Oct. 31 and conclude Dec. 13 and 16 in Las Vegas with the semifinal and championship game, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here are the results of the group draw.</p><h3>East</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Group A</th>
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</thead>
<tbody>
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<td>Atlanta Hawks</td>
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<td>Cleveland Cavaliers</td>
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<td>Indiana Pacers</td>
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<td>Toronto Raptors</td>
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<td>Washington Wizards</td>
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</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
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<th>Group B</th>
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</thead>
<tbody>
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<td>Boston Celtics</td>
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<td>Brooklyn Nets</td>
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<td>Detroit Pistons</td>
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<td>Orlando Magic</td>
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<td>Philadelphia 76ers</td>
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</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
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<th>Group C</th>
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</thead>
<tbody>
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<td>Charlotte Hornets</td>
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<td>Chicago Bulls</td>
</tr>
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<td>Miami Heat</td>
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<td>Milwaukee Bucks</td>
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<td>New York Knicks</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>West</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Group A</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
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<td>Minnesota Timberwolves</td>
</tr>
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<td>Oklahoma City Thunder</td>
</tr>
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<td>Phoenix Suns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sacramento Kings</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Utah Jazz</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
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<th>Group B</th>
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</thead>
<tbody>
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<td>Dallas Mavericks</td>
</tr>
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<td>Los Angeles Clippers</td>
</tr>
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<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
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<td>Memphis Grizzlies</td>
</tr>
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<td>New Orleans Pelicans</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
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<th>Group C</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Denver Nuggets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Golden State Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston Rockets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Portland Trail Blazers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>San Antonio Spurs</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>After the group-play stage, the top teams from each group and one wild-card club from each conference will advance to the knockout rounds, which consist of single-elimination games.</p><p>The Bucks defeated the Thunder 97-81 in last season's NBA Cup final.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 17: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks celebrates after the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the Emirates NBA Cup Championship game on December 17, 2024 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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WNBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.  This week, we're c...

<p><em>WNBA Power Rankings are selected by a panel of theScore's basketball editors.</em></p><p>This week, we're casting aside cynicism and taking a positive approach by identifying one reason for optimism for each of the league's 13 teams.</p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#CHI">CHI</a> | <a href="#CON">CON</a> | <a href="#DAL">DAL</a> | <a href="#GSV">GSV</a> | <a href="#IND">IND</a> | <a href="#LV">LV</a> | <a href="#LA">LA</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NY">NY</a> | <a href="#PHX">PHX</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#WSH">WSH</a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>1. <a id="MIN" name="MIN">Minnesota Lynx (17-2)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>1</p><p><strong>Historic dominance:</strong> There are plenty of reasons for optimism in Minnesota. Among them is a plus-11.1 point differential on the season that puts the Lynx in a rarified class: Only six other teams in WNBA history have posted a double-digit point differential, and all six of them went on to win the title that year.</p><h3>2. <a id="PHX" name="PHX">Phoenix Mercury (13-6)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>2</p><p><strong>The Big Three's limited court time:</strong> Injuries have kept Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, and Kahleah Copper from playing simultaneously. Still, the Mercury have established themselves as title contenders, and the chemistry between their star trio is only going to grow as the season progresses.</p><h3>3. <a id="SEA" name="SEA">Seattle Storm (12-7)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>5</p><p><strong>Superstar trio:</strong> The Storm are threatening the WNBA's elite this season, and All-Stars Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins, and Gabby Williams have been a three-headed monster on offense. They're the league's highest-scoring trio (48.9<strong> </strong>points per game) with 10 or more games played together.</p><h3>4. <a id="NY" name="NY">New York Liberty (13-6)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>3</p><p><strong>Jonquel Jones' return:</strong> New York has cooled after rattling off nine straight wins to begin the season. The Liberty's interior defense has struggled without the reigning Finals MVP patrolling the paint. Jones' eventual return to the lineup should point the club back in the right direction.</p><h3>5. <a id="ATL" name="ATL">Atlanta Dream (12-7)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>4</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/cropped_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w220xh124_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w320xh180_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w640xh360_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w768xh432_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/793270/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2223535926.jpg?ts=1751857882 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andrew J. Clark/ISI Photos / ISI Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Karl Smesko's offense:</strong> The first-year head coach has transformed Atlanta into one of the league's most explosive offenses. Smesko's emphasis on 3-pointers has been at the core of the team's turnaround and helped Allisha Gray earn her first All-Star starting nod. The Dream have managed to light up the scoreboard despite being inefficient from beyond the arc.</p><h3>6. <a id="GSV" name="GSV">Golden State Valkyries (9-9)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>6</p><p><strong>Uncharted waters:</strong> The Valkyries now have nine victories on the campaign, which ties or surpasses all other expansion teams this century, and their .500 win percentage could challenge the 1998 Dallas Wings (.567) for the best expansion season in league history. Few could have foreseen this.</p><h3>7. <a id="IND" name="IND">Indiana Fever (9-9)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>7</p><p><strong>Fever's resilience:</strong> Caitlin Clark has been sidelined for extended portions of the season, while DeWanna Bonner's exit was an unwanted distraction. The Fever persevered through the adversity to upset the Lynx in the Commissioner's Cup final and dismantle the Aces. Multiple players stepped up in Clark's absence, and that'll help the team in the long run.</p><h3>8. <a id="LV" name="LV">Las Vegas Aces (9-9)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>8</p><p><strong>A'ja Wilson exists:</strong> The Aces have underwhelmed, prompting coach Becky Hammon to characterize a recent loss to the Fever as "trash," but on the bright side, Wilson is playing at an elite level. The three-time MVP is second in the league in scoring (20.7) and rebounds (8.7) and leads all players with 2.4<strong> </strong>blocks per game. Now, we await the results of the MRI on a wrist injury suffered in Tuesday's loss to the Liberty.</p><h3>9. <a id="WSH" name="WSH">Washington Mystics (9-10)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>9</p><p><strong>Youth movement:</strong> Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen have started since opening night and are taking significant roles in the Mystics' hunt for a surprising playoff berth. Citron has been a dependable 3-and-D option, while Iriafen is already among the league's top offensive rebounders. They're just the second pair of rookie teammates to be selected as All-Stars.</p><h3>10. <a id="DAL" name="DAL">Dallas Wings (6-14)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>11</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/cropped_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791374/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221222546.jpg?ts=1750474596 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Buglewicz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Paige Bueckers:</strong> Whether or not Dallas sneaks into the postseason, the franchise can rest easy knowing that Bueckers is part of the big picture. The UConn product has been everything the Wings could ask for, earning an All-Star starting nod in her debut campaign. Bueckers is a mid-range assassin, elite playmaker, and intelligent defender. She's got a great feel for the game and shows poise beyond her years.</p><h3>11. <a id="LA" name="LA">Los Angeles Sparks (6-13)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>12</p><p><strong>Cameron Brink's return:</strong> The Sparks have been one of the league's biggest letdowns, and Brink's long-term absence due to a torn ACL and meniscus hasn't helped. But there could be good news on the horizon - head coach Lynne Roberts recently said Brink will be back "sooner rather than later."</p><h3>12. <a id="CHI" name="CHI">Chicago Sky (5-13)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>10</p><p><strong>Angel Reese is a walking double-double:</strong> This has largely been a lost season for the Sky, but Reese is averaging 17.8 points and 17 boards across her last six outings and leads the league with 12.9 rebounds, 4.2 more than the closest player. She now has 37 double-doubles in 51 career games.</p><h3>13. <a id="CON" name="CON">Connecticut Sun (2-16)</a>
</h3><p><em>Previous: </em>13</p><p><strong>Rookie contributions:</strong> There's no escaping the fact that the Sun are dreadful. A current 10-game losing streak and comical record confirms as much, but in Marina Mabrey's injury absence, the team has gotten improved contributions from 2025 top-10 picks Aneesah Morrow and Saniya Rivers. Small victories.</p>