WNBA enters FIBA break as playoff teams prepare for final season stretch

The WNBA has entered a two-plus week break for the 2026 FIBA Women's World Cup in Berlin. All eight playoff spots were secured following a Dallas Wings victory over the Portland Fire on Tuesday, though final seeding remains unresolved. The Minnesota Lynx currently hold a two-game lead for the No. 1 seed, but recent losses to the Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream have tightened the standings. The Valkyries carry a four-game winning streak into the break, while the Las Vegas Aces face a roster challenge following a season-ending injury to NaLyssa Smith. Play is scheduled to resume September 17, with only one week of regular-season competition remaining. Teams will also compete for final draft lottery positioning as the league returns to conclude its schedule.

• 1:28 PMESPN — Lynx dethroned as schedule breaks for World Cup
• 3:19 PMCBS Sports — WNBA Power Rankings: Valkyries enter FIBA break on a hot streak as Lynx get a 'wake-up call'