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WNBA Playoffs: Mystics & Wings Face Uphill Battle
30 Sep
Summary
- Six of eight WNBA playoff teams return from last season.
- Washington Mystics and Dallas Wings seek to improve Game 1 losses.
- Key players like Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale face pressure.
Six of the eight teams competing in the 2026 WNBA Playoffs were also present in last year's postseason. The Washington Mystics and Dallas Wings mark the new entrants, both making their return to playoff action for the first time since 2023.
Following disappointing Game 1 performances, both the Mystics and Wings face an immediate need for adjustments to avoid early elimination. The Mystics, the No. 5 seed, aim to improve ball security against the Atlanta Dream. The No. 7 seed Wings were overwhelmed by the Golden State Valkyries, with Paige Bueckers' stellar 21-point performance being a lone highlight.
Washington's path forward involves reducing turnovers, potentially by utilizing their size and physical play, with players like Lauren Betts and Cotie McMahon. For Dallas, a significant uptick in production is needed, possibly from veteran Arike Ogunbowale or an improved effort from Jessica Shepard.
The Mystics host Game 2 against the Dream at 7 p.m. ET, followed by the Wings' matchup against the Valkyries at 9 p.m. ET, both airing on ESPN.
