Fire vs. Sun: Rebuilds Collide in WNBA Showdown

The Portland Fire and Connecticut Sun are set to face off on May 18, 2026, in a game featuring two teams that are not projected for the playoffs. The Fire, in their inaugural season, have shown promise with a decent start, holding a 1-2 record.

In contrast, the Connecticut Sun are in the midst of a significant rebuild, a process that has seen them fail to secure a victory so far in the 2026 season. Their struggles are evident in their league-worst net rating and offensive rating, compounded by the loss of Marina Mabrey during the offseason.

Portland's strength lies in its shooting efficiency, ranking fifth in effective field goal percentage, led by Bridget Carleton. This offensive capability is poised to test the Sun's defense, which ranks poorly in defensive rating and opponent three-point percentage.

Oddsmakers anticipate a close contest, but the Fire are favored to win and cover the spread. Portland's effective field goal percentage and strong three-point volume are expected to exploit Connecticut's defensive vulnerabilities, making it a key factor in the game's prediction.