A thrilling night of WNBA action is set for Thursday, as several of the league’s top teams collide. The heavily favored New York Liberty, boasting a strong 10-1 record, will take on the 9-4 Phoenix Mercury at 7 p.m. ET, while the Indiana Fever, currently at 6-5, will travel to face the Golden State Valkyries at 10 p.m. ET. Both matchups will be available for viewing on Prime Video.
As the Liberty take the floor against the Mercury, questions linger about their ability to maintain their momentum against stronger opponents. Despite their impressive start, the Liberty have faced numerous teams with losing records, and their wins against those with winning records have been tight. For instance, they pulled off a narrow two-point victory against the Fever, alongside a 14-point loss and a five-point win over the Dream—showing that their performance has not been consistently dominant.
The Mercury are coming off an 8-point win against a struggling Connecticut Sun, but they are managing a back-to-back situation. The re-addition of star player Kahleah Copper has revitalized their bench, contributing significantly in recent games. Copper’s presence, combined with the explosive capabilities of players like Satou Sabally, who is averaging nearly 20 points per game in her rookie season, makes Phoenix a formidable competitor, even on the road.
Meanwhile, a keen eye will also be on the matchup between the Fever and Valkyries, particularly in the rebounding department. The Valkyries, traditionally strong in rebounding, will face challenges without key players like Temi Fagbenie and Janelle Salaun due to EuroBasket commitments. Their recent game exhibits the potential for struggles on the boards, having been out-rebounded by the Wings just days ago.
For player prop betting enthusiasts, Natasha Howard’s line for rebounds stands out, as her current odds could imply value given the circumstances of the matchup. With her recent performance and the Valkyries’ depleted lineup, she may have a chance to outshine expectations.
Overall, fans can expect an exciting evening of basketball, with critical implications for team standings and individual performances. Both games promise to be engaging, showcasing the dynamic talent within the WNBA. As the league continues to raise its profile, these matchups can significantly influence playoff outlooks and individual accolades as the season progresses.