Full Breakdown
WNBA Power Rankings Shape Commissioner's Cup Showdown
7/1/2026, 3:16:17 PM
Commissioner's Cup Final: New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces
The Commissioner's Cup championship will be played Tuesday in New York, featuring the Las Vegas Aces against the New York Liberty. The Aces are without league-scoring leader A'ja Wilson, who rolled her ankle on Sunday and will miss the final. Wilson had been averaging 25.7 points and 2.0 blocks per game. The Liberty, No. 6 in the latest ESPN Power Rankings, will need a collective effort after a 1-2 stretch that included a win over the Aces (87-76) and losses at Seattle and Golden State.
Recent Power Rankings and Team Momentum
The Minnesota Lynx lead the Power Rankings (No. 1). Golden State Valkyries are No. 3, their best placement since May 12. Dallas Wings hold No. 4 despite a 0-2 stretch. Washington Mystics and Atlanta Dream each sit at No. 5 after 0-3 runs. Chicago Sky earned two wins over Portland before falling to Las Vegas.
Key Players and Statistical Leaders
Natalia Howard (Minnesota) averages 17.7 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists and shoots 61.1 %. A'ja Wilson leads the league with 25.7 points and 2.0 blocks per game but will miss the Cup final. Marina Mabrey tied a league record with nine three-pointers in a 53-point game for Toronto. Sabrina Ionescu posted a double-double in the Liberty’s win over Las Vegas. Gabby Williams (Golden State) added 39 points in two victories over Washington, and Jonquel Jones (New York) posted 47 points and 15 rebounds in two recent contests.
Official Milestones and League Statements
Cheryl Reeve (Minnesota) was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville and earned her 379th win, tying Mike Thibault for the most victories in league history. She could claim the outright record in Friday’s game at New York. The league’s schedule confirms the Cup final will be held in New York, and the Power Rankings are updated weekly.
Criticism & Concerns: Injuries and Depth
The Aces’ Cup chances are uncertain without Wilson’s scoring and rim protection. The Liberty’s recent three-game slide underscores a need for contributions beyond Ionescu’s double-double. Phoenix’s Sparks are struggling after losing Kelsey Plum (23.9 ppg, 6.4 apg) to a lower-leg injury and Cameron Brink to an ankle issue, while rookie guard Jovana Nogic is out for the season, raising depth concerns.
Data & Statistics Snapshot
What’s Next: Road-Heavy Schedule
Several top teams face a demanding road stretch. The Lynx will not play again until Friday, while nine of the next eleven games for many clubs—including the Sky, Storm and Fire—are scheduled on the road. This travel load could influence positioning ahead of the postseason.
