What happened: Minnesota sits atop the WNBA standings with a 17-6 record, while Las Vegas holds a 17-7 mark. Golden State matches the Aces at 17-7 following a 79-64 victory over Connecticut that extended its franchise-best winning streak. The Dallas Wings occupy the fourth position following a 96-91 win over Chicago.

Why it matters: Minnesota holds just a half-game lead over both Las Vegas and Golden State in the race for the top playoff seed and home-court advantage through the postseason. The Lynx enter Monday's scheduled matchup against Phoenix listed as, presenting an immediate opportunity to widen that margin. Golden State's surge has reshaped the upper tier of the championship race, turning what began as an expansion season into a direct contention run.

What to watch: Minnesota puts its number one ranking on the line against Phoenix on Monday at Target Center as it attempts to extend its two-game winning streak. Golden State seeks to build on its seven-game run as the regular-season schedule approaches the mid-July All-Star break.