{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/6818a0d4eb737caf8ca3e31e/69f4060f8466468ab00f289b?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Not Quite Contenders: Big Questions for the WNBA’s Middle Tier","description":"<p>Sabreena and Annie take a closer look at the league’s middle tier—teams with something to prove. They evaluate the future outlook of the Minnesota Lynx, explore whether the Golden State Valkyries can find success again in year two, and consider what lies ahead for the Los Angeles Sparks. We also dive into the pressure facing the Chicago Sky amid roster changes, and the challenges confronting Alyssa Thomas and the Phoenix Mercury.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Finally, we’ll tell you where to set your screens!</p><p><br></p><p><strong>REFERENCES:&nbsp;</strong></p><p><br></p><p><a href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7239181/2026/04/29/angel-reese-chicago-sky-atlanta-dream-preseason/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">As Angel Reese returns to Chicago with Dream, Sky work to re-imagine their future</a> by Annie Costabile</p><p><br></p><p><a href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7242329/2026/04/29/angel-reese-atlanta-dream-chicago-sky/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Angel Reese fits right in with Dream, beats Sky in first game since trade: Takeaways</a> by Annie Costabile</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>","author_name":"The Athletic"}