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WNBA·ANALYSIS·July 31, 2026 06:21 AM ET

WNBA playoff race tightens ahead of Aug. 2 trade deadline

Eight teams qualify; ninth place sits 4½ games back

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 311 min read
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What happened: Second-half forecasts assess the playoff field, draft-lottery odds and possible deadline movement. Automatic-suspension risks also factor into the stretch run.

Why it matters: The 15-team league leaves nearly half the field outside the postseason. Contenders have until 3 p.m. ET Sunday to adjust their rosters before the final push.

By the numbers: First place stands at 24-6, while eighth place is 16-13. Ninth place is 11-17, creating a 4½-game gap at the playoff cutoff.

What to watch: Watch for roster movement before Sunday’s deadline and whether the teams below eighth can close the postseason gap.

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