The WNBA is on its FIBA World Cup break—but Minnesota still has work to do. Can the Lynx handle a challenging closeout and secure the No. 1 seed, or are Golden State and Las Vegas ready to apply pressure? We also discuss A’ja Wilson’s MVP case and what her absence means for Team USA. With A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum out for health reasons—and Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen joining the roster—does this FIBA team have enough toughness, physicality, and leadership to remain on top of the world? Then we turn to football! College football is underway, the NFL season is almost here, and Aaron Donald has officially come out of retirement to rejoin the Los Angeles Rams. Finally, the 2026 US Open is underway in New York. Who are the players to watch, and can Coco Gauff make another championship run? Topics: • Minnesota Lynx and the WNBA playoff race • A’ja Wilson’s MVP case • Team USA’s toughness without A’ja • Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen joining Team USA • NFL and college football excitement • Aaron Donald’s return to the Rams • 2026 US Open tennis Who is your WNBA MVP, and is Minnesota still your championship favorite? Let us know in the comments. Subscribe to 2 Gems and a Mic for WNBA, NFL, college football, tennis, and honest sports conversation. Please be kind, be blessed—it’s free. Peace.