The WNBA annual Commissioner's Cup is set to kick off this week with a revamped format for the in-season tournament. This year, teams will engage in a series of five games against conference opponents over a two-week period, a departure from the previous home-and-home set up against each team in their conference.
The championship game is scheduled for June 25 and will be hosted by the team with the best overall record in the tournament. Last season, New York emerged victorious over Las Vegas in the in-season tourney title match.
Teams face varying challenges in the tournament schedule, with some having to play five games in as few as eight days. Players on the winning team stand to earn around $30,000 each, with the championship game MVP receiving an additional $5,000. Runner-up team members will each earn $10,000.
Additionally, there is a charitable component to the tournament, with teams earning money for designated charities based on game outcomes. Teams secure $3,000 for their chosen charities for each win and $1,000 for each loss. The league will also make donations to the champion and runner-up's charities.
In the latest AP WNBA poll, Connecticut claimed the top spot, followed by Las Vegas and New York. The Sun are the sole undefeated team in the league, with the Aces slipping to second place. Minnesota, Chicago, and Phoenix also feature prominently in the rankings.
Rookie standout Caitlin Clark secured her first WNBA victory as Indiana triumphed over Los Angeles. Despite a challenging shooting night, Clark's late 3-pointers sealed the win. The Fever, after a road-heavy start, are gearing up for a home stretch, including a highly anticipated matchup against Chicago.
Rookie Cameron Brink shone for the Los Angeles Sparks, leading in points, rebounds, and blocks. Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky had a strong week, marred by a hard foul incident. Reese's resilience and performance have been noteworthy.
Player of the Week honors went to Napheesa Collier of Minnesota, who delivered impressive stats to propel the Lynx to a 2-1 week. Notable performances also came from DeWanna Bonner, Kahleah Copper, and Kayla McBride.
The upcoming Game of the Week features Las Vegas facing off against Minnesota, with the Aces seeking to maintain their championship form against the Lynx's strong start to the season.
