The FIBA Women's World Cup final, featuring the USA and France, attracted 1.2 million viewers, showcasing the growing interest in women's basketball. San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama will not compete for the French national team until next summer, as France aims to qualify for the 2027 FIBA World Cup.
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In WNBA news, the Golden State Valkyries edged out the Los Angeles Sparks 76-75 on Thursday night, marking the end of Nneka Ogwumike's illustrious 15-year career. Kaitlyn Chen scored 14 of her 18 points in the final quarter to help secure the No. 2 seed for the Valkyries, who will face the seventh-seeded Dallas in the first round of the playoffs. Ogwumike finished her last game with 17 points, 15 rebounds, and five assists.
Victor Wembanyama recently commented on his return to play for France this summer, transitioning from his NBA team to represent his country. His impact was evident in a recent blowout victory over Slovenia in a FIBA qualifying match, where he led Team France in scoring.
The New York Liberty will be without star forward Breanna Stewart, who is sidelined due to knee soreness, ahead of their season finale against the Atlanta Dream. Stewart played a significant role in leading her team to a 26-17 record this season.
As the playoffs approach, the excitement mounts for matchups involving the Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx, who are set to rekindle their rivalry in the first round of the playoffs. With strong performances and significant player updates, the WNBA playoffs promise to be competitive.