- What: WNBA Commissioner’s Cup
- When: Tuesday, June 25
- Who: Minnesota Lynx vs. New York Liberty
- Tip-Off: 8:00 p.m. ET
- Where: UBS. Arena (Elmont, NY)
The fourth annual WNBA Commissioner’s Cup tips off Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET with the New York Liberty (15-3) facing the Minnesota Lynx (13-3) at UBS Arena in Elmont, N.Y.
The winning team will share a $500,000 prize pool, with each player receiving an additional $5,000 in cryptocurrency. This midseason title game has often been a predictor of postseason success.
Minnesota Lynx
In a clash between two of the WNBA’s top teams, choosing a winner is tough, making the points appealing.
The Liberty, having won 11 of their last 12 games, and the Lynx, on a six-game win streak, enter this matchup in great form.
The last time these two teams met, the Lynx won 84-67. Jonquel Jones, who scored just four points in that game, has since shown improvement, adding an interesting dynamic to their upcoming rematch.
let’s get it. pic.twitter.com/QQBn2DHd5I
— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) June 25, 2024
However, Liberty may miss key players such as Courtney Vandersloot and Betnijah Laney-Hamilton.
The Liberty’s stars have logged heavy minutes, while the Lynx are well-rested and eager for their first Cup win.
New York Liberty
The Liberty are favored by 5.5 points, and the total is 164.5, up from an opening 160.5. Despite the rising total, I’m leaning towards the under for several reasons.
First, both teams have top-tier defenses, ranking second and third in the WNBA.
The Lynx, especially, have been formidable, allowing only 60 and 55 points in their last two games, and no team has exceeded 80 points since the Aces two weeks ago.
SHE’S IN HER ZONE ????@sabrina_i20 is our Eastern Conference Player of the Week ???? pic.twitter.com/QT0ddy8YfX
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) June 25, 2024
The Liberty are in top form. Their back-to-back wins over the Atlanta Dream this past weekend highlighted their exceptional performance on both ends of the floor.
Their strong teamwork and consistency were evident, showcasing their dominance. While Minnesota is a solid team, New York has been superior, and they’ll be eager to avenge their recent loss to the Lynx.
Lynx-Liberty Best Bet
Additionally, the game is at UBS Arena in Long Island, not the Liberty’s usual home at Barclays Center, requiring players to adjust to a new court. The playoff atmosphere typically results in a slower pace and tighter shooting.
Both teams have a strong tendency to limit their opponents’ free throws, a key factor that could contribute to a low-scoring game.
In fact, their previous matchup this season was played at a slower pace, further supporting the under bet. While the over might be gaining traction, I’m firmly backing the under in this one.
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