The two first-round matchups on our WNBA wishlist

The GIST: With the FIBA Women’s World Cup in the rearview mirror, the WNBA is so back, returning with tomorrow’s five-game slate. The eight playoff contenders are locked in, but each team’s remaining four regular-season games will decide seeding. Here are two potential first-round matchups topping our hoops hope list.

1️⃣ Las Vegas Aces vs. NY Liberty: This era of women’s basketball has been defined by two players: Aces icon A’ja Wilson and seafoam superstar Breanna Stewart. Perennial MVP candidates (this year included), these two highlight an always thrilling rivalry between their teams. And after splitting two series over the last three postseasons, this would be the ultimate rubber match.

• 🔮 Likelihood: Cautiously optimistic. The Aces should land the No. 3 spot (assuming the league-leading Minnesota Lynx and Golden State Valkyries take care of business ahead of them), especially with all four of their remaining games against eliminated teams.

• That means NY would need to slot in at No. 6 — and that’s where it gets tricky. The Liberty, Washington Mystics, and Dallas Wings sport matching 24-16 records, but NY has the most difficult road ahead with three tilts vs. playoff-bound squads.

2️⃣ Golden State Valkyries vs. Washington Mystics: Both teams are defensive juggernauts, but it’s their opposite offensive styles that have us intrigued. The Valks shine on the perimeter thanks to playmakers like Gabby Williams and Veronica Burton, while the ’Stics thrive in the paint with Shakira Austin and Kiki Iriafen.

• 🔮 Likelihood: Realistic. The Valkyries are in the mix for the No. 1 seed, but the Lynx need just two wins to lock in the top spot. That sets the stage for the Mystics, whose schedule is easier than NY’s but harder than Dallas’, to fall perfectly into the No. 7 spot. Excellent.