This year, WNBA players are making a statement that’s impossible to ignore. Brittney Griner continuing her professional journey inspires fans and athletes alike. Up to this point, the league has witnessed an unprecedented 10 instances where players accomplished a remarkable 40-point game. This achievement is the highest number in the WNBA’s 27-year history. Additionally, Sabrina Ionescu broke all NBA and WNBA records for three-point contests in the 2023 all-star games. She even topped Stephen Curry with her feat.
These remarkable instances are propelling the WNBA to the forefront. The viewership of the WNBA has reportedly seen a 67% surge from last year. This significant improvement is a direct result of the awe-inspiring plays and performances this season. Luckily, the WNBA is amidst its biggest season ever. With nearly 20% of the regular season ahead, fans can eagerly anticipate an influx of fresh and captivating highlights.
Ionescu nails Stephen Curry like daggers
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In the mid-July All-Star contest, fans were treated to an astounding 3-point shooting prowess from Sabrina. She astounded everyone by making an unbelievable 37 out of 40 shots. It’s fitting to label the sharpshooter as the Curry of the WNBA. Recently, Sabrina showcased her extraordinary abilities in the Commissioner’s Cup game against the Las Vegas Aces.
Playing at LVA’s home arena, the odds favored the defending champions. However, New York Liberty ended the third quarter with a commendable 15-5 run. It is when Sabrina showcased her ability to get hot from beyond the arc. She nailed a contested three and a deep handoff to give NY a 66-52 lead.
The threes served propelled the Liberty’s offense, as the defending champions never came close to them. New York Liberty triumphed over the Las Vegas Aces, commanding an 82-63 score. The Aces had clinched the Commissioner’s Cup and the WNBA title in the previous season.
Each player on the Liberty team is set to earn approximately $30,000 through the victory. Conversely, their counterparts on the Aces will each take home around $10,000.
NBA will host the first-ever in-season tournament this season
The NBA’s inaugural In-Season Tournament is set to debut in Indianapolis. Each team will play four group-stage games. Six group winners and two wild cards will advance to single-elimination quarterfinals. Unlike European soccer tournaments, the NBA Cup is part of the regular season. Teams will have to adjust as new games will be added.
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The league usually issues an 82-game schedule in mid-August. This year, due to the tournament, teams get an 80-game plan. Teams unable to make the knockout rounds will get their schedules for the final two games. For the winners, there will be cash prizes as rewards. The payouts will be $500,000 each for winners and $200,000 for runner-ups. Additionally, semifinal losers will get $100,000, while quarterfinal losers can get $50,000.
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NBA Commissioner Adam Silver introduced the tournament aiming at better revenue and attracting global attention. The games will take place from early November to December.
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