The WNBA continues its exciting season on Friday, May 23, with eight teams battling it out across four key matchups. Here are the top betting picks using DraftKings Sportsbook odds.
Here is the full WNBA schedule for Friday, May 23 (all times Eastern):
- Sun at Lynx, 7:30 p.m.
- Mystics at Aces, 10 p.m.
- Valkyries at Sparks, 10 p.m.
- Mercury at Storm, 10 p.m.
Mystics +15 (-112)
The Washington Mystics, despite some early-season struggles, have shown promise, especially with the strong performances from their rising stars. Heading into a matchup against the Las Vegas Aces, Washington will look to build on their solid start, even though Las Vegas has been a force to reckon with so far this season.
Washington is coming off a 76-74 loss to Golden State, where they had solid individual performances, including a 30-point game from Brittney Sykes. However, their overall performance was marred by 18 turnovers and poor shooting. Sykes, Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron are stepping up as scoring leaders, and with first-year coach Sydney Johnson’s guidance, they are finding more fluidity as a team.
Las Vegas, led by A’ja Wilson, is undoubtedly a championship contender, but their offense has lacked its usual efficiency in recent games. Along with the absence of several key contributors from last season, it might make them vulnerable. While Las Vegas should still win, Washington’s ability to keep games competitive could mean they cover the spread.
Mercury +6 (-110)
Phoenix’s hot start to the season has been impressive, particularly in their dominant 81-59 win over Seattle in their season opener. Satou Sabally has been exceptional, averaging 26 points per game, and the Mercury look poised for another solid performance against Seattle in this repeat matchup. The addition of Alyssa Thomas to their roster adds depth, and the team has shown they can thrive without Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner.
Seattle, on the other hand, has bounced back from their opening loss to Phoenix with a solid win against Dallas, where Nneka Ogwumike posted a 23-point, 18-rebound performance. However, the Storm’s success will hinge on consistency in their shooting and the effectiveness of their ball movement. While Seattle will push for the win, Phoenix’s well-balanced offense and the presence of Sabally and Thomas should help them keep this game close.
Nneka Ogwumike Over 17.5 Points (-120)
Nneka Ogwumike has been a dominant force for the Storm, especially in her recent performance against the Dallas Wings. Ogwumike should have high usage again in key moments and she is more than capable of surpassing this point total.
In Seattle’ last game against Phoenix, Ogwumike only scored 12 points in limited minutes during a blowout loss, but when she plays her full minutes, she consistently posts significant numbers. With Phoenix expected to be a competitive opponent, Ogwumike will likely play extended minutes and have ample opportunities to score.
