2026 WNBA Playoffs, 3 top storylines entering Game 2 of Semifinals

The WNBA Playoffs have been incredible so far. We have been treated to upsets, epic performances, and a little drama. The Atlanta Dream defended home court with a 92-82 victory over the New York Liberty but lost a star player due to injury. The Golden State Valkyries secured a big-time 71-60 win over the Las Vegas Aces. All four of these teams are filled with superstar talent and players who can take over a game in a heartbeat. Playoffs are all about adjustments, so it’s always fun to see how these coaches change their game plan. These are the three biggest storylines to watch before these critical Game 2s.

Jul 17, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Atlanta Dream guard Allisha Gray (15) and Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) head up court against the Toronto Tempo during the first half at Coca-Cola Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Injuries can shift a series, and that’s what might happen in this Dream-Liberty series. Atlanta will be without Allisha Gray for Game 2 because of a finger injury. Gray is their leading scorer with 19.0 PPG and is an emotional leader for this squad.

The Dream will rely on their bench to help replace Gray’s scoring. DeWanna Bonner was elite off the bench in the opening game. She lit it up for 29 points and 9 rebounds. The Liberty need to steal this game if they want a chance. Going back to Barclays Center 0-2 is not ideal for New York and their fans.

Jun 21, 2026; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby Williams (1) drives the ball against Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) during the third quarter of a WNBA basketball game at Michelob Ultra Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images

Gabby Williams was UNREAL in the Valkyries’ Game 1 win against the Aces. She dropped 25 points on 9/18 shooting and grabbed 11 rebounds. The former UCONN Huskie was a force all game, raining in four threes on the Aces. She even earned the attention of the Valkyries’ owner, Joe Lacob, who said, “Print this: Gabby Williams is the best player in the world.”

The Aces will for sure have a target on Williams for Game 2 and try to make her life as miserable as possible. No one has been able to stop the 2-time All-Star during this postseason. She’s averaging 25.0 PPG through the first four games of the playoffs. I’m guessing A’Ja Wilson or Jackie Young will want to be up for the challenge.

Aug 27, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart (30) during the second half against the Golden State Valkyries at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)

Turnovers can be a coach’s nightmare. Liberty head coach Chris DeMarco had 21 nightmares in their Game 1 loss. Those 21 turnovers resulted in 32 points for the Dream. That is not a recipe for success if you want to reach the WNBA Finals.

New York is a veteran-laden squad led by Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu. The Liberty averaged 13.7 turnovers a game during the regular season, and I’m anticipating a bounce-back game. The Dream do have Defensive Player of the Year Angel Reese, so she’ll be looking to cause some havoc.