Two California Teams with Opposite Directions in the WNBA
The two California franchises in the WNBA, the Los Angeles Sparks and the Golden State Valkyries, seem to be on opposite paths. While the Sparks are exhibiting a winning streak, the Valkyries are facing difficulties.
The Sparks, with an 11-14 record, lead the league with an active five-game winning streak, which has allowed them to move up three positions in the weekly ranking. On the other hand, the Valkyries (11-13) have suffered six losses in their last eight games.
A positive piece of news for the Sparks is the return of Cameron Brink, the second pick of the 2024 draft, who is back in action after an injury. Her return adds to the team’s good moment, with players like Kelsey Plum, Dearica Hamby, Azura Stevens, and Rickea Jackson showing high offensive performance.
In contrast, the Valkyries have lost their top scorer and rebounder, Kayla Thornton, due to an injury that will keep her out for the rest of the season. Despite this, the team welcomes Iliana Rupert, who joins after fulfilling international commitments.
In short, the Sparks seem poised to be a playoff team, while the Valkyries are looking to regain their course.
WNBA Ranking
Here’s the WNBA ranking, highlighting the teams and their upcoming commitments:
The Lynx defeated Chicago and Las Vegas last week, but suffered a loss to Atlanta. Their next game is against New York on July 30.
- 2. New York Liberty (17-8)
The Liberty won their first two games after Jonquel Jones’ return, but have struggled without Breanna Stewart. Their next game is against Minnesota on July 30.
Atlanta has climbed the ranks thanks to its victories in Phoenix and Minnesota. They await the return of Rhyne Howard. Their next game is against Golden State on July 29.
- 4. Phoenix Mercury (16-9)
Phoenix lost two of three games last week, despite the return of Satou Sabally and Kahleah Copper. Their next game is against Indiana on July 30.
The Fever defeated Las Vegas and Chicago. Kelsey Mitchell has led the team in scoring in the last eight games. Their next game is against Phoenix on July 30.
The Storm had a 2-2 record last week. Skylar Diggins had another triple-double. Their biggest problem is inconsistency. Their next game is against Los Angeles on August 1st.
- 7. Los Angeles Sparks (11-14)
The Sparks are on a five-game winning streak. Their next game is against Las Vegas on July 29.
- 8. Las Vegas Aces (13-13)
Las Vegas had a .500 week. Their next game is against Los Angeles on July 29.
- 9. Washington Mystics (12-13)
The Mystics have lost three of their last four games. Their next game is against Chicago on July 29.
- 10. Golden State Valkyries (11-13)
The Valkyries won a game after announcing Kayla Thornton’s departure. They will need to find their identity without her. Their next game is against Atlanta on July 29.
The Wings defeated Seattle and New York. Arike Ogunbowale had her best shooting streak. Their next game is against Atlanta on July 30.
Chicago lost their last five games. Angel Reese is out with an injury, and Ariel Atkins and Hailey Van Lith are also missing. Their next game is against Washington on July 29.
- 13. Connecticut Sun (4-21)
The Sun got Marina Mabrey back and defeated Golden State. Their next game is against New York on August 1st.
