What happened: Alexa Philippou reports the league sent 2026 playoff holds to teams on Dec. 4, 2025. Her understanding is that teams had the dates of playoff games at that point but not the tip times.

Why it matters: The timeline bears on the dispute over Game 6 of the Finals, which is set for 12:30 p.m. ET Thursday because of a Hawks home date at State Farm Arena. Atlanta Dream ownership has said arena concerns went unheeded before the midday start.

What to watch: Game 6 tips Thursday at 12:30 p.m. ET, with the Valkyries ahead 3-2 and able to clinch the title.