The New York Liberty is set to face the Minnesota Lynx in the eagerly awaited WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Championship on Tuesday night. This match marks the pinnacle of the WNBA’s innovative in-season competition, which began its fourth edition this year. The competition designates specific regular-season games as “Commissioner’s Cup games,” adding an extra layer of excitement and stakes for the teams and fans alike.
The Commissioner’s Cup format was revamped last December, allowing each team to play five games against in-conference rivals. These games, held from June 1-13, also contribute to the regular season’s win-loss record. With an impeccable 5-0 record in Commissioner’s Cup play, the Liberty earned the right to host the Lynx, who finished with a strong 4-1 record.
The Liberty, led by standout players Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, are expected to put up a fierce fight. Stewart and Ionescu have been phenomenal this season, averaging 19.7 and 19.3 points per game, respectively. Adding to the team’s strength is Jonquel Jones, who leads with 8.8 rebounds per game, providing a solid defense.
On the other side, the Lynx boasts a formidable presence with Napheesa Collier, who has been stellar, averaging 20.9 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Her performance will be crucial if the Lynx aims to outmaneuver the Liberty on their home turf.
The stakes for this game are particularly high with a $500,000 cash prize pool presented by Coinbase. Additionally, Coinbase has committed an extra $120,000 in cryptocurrency, raising the stakes even higher. Each player participating in the championship game is guaranteed $5,000, ensuring that the athletes are well-compensated for their efforts.
When and Where is the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Taking Place?
The in-season tournament between the Liberty and the Lynx will be played on Tuesday, June 25. The game will take place at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York. Originally, the Liberty was supposed to host the championship game at their home court, but due to the NBA Draft being held there the following day, the venue was moved to facilitate both events. UBS Arena, the home of the NHL’s New York Islanders, will now host this high-stakes game.
What is the Start Time of the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup?
The game is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 pm ET, which is 5:00 pm PT. Fans from all over will be tuning in to witness what promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the WNBA’s top teams.
This championship game not only highlights the competitive spirit of the WNBA but also showcases the league’s continuous efforts to innovate and engage fans through unique in-season competitions. Be sure to tune in for what promises to be an unforgettable night of basketball.
