Tue Oct 01 00:25:50 UTC 2024: ## NWSL Teams Snap Skids While WNBA Honors Defensive Excellence

**Houston, TX & Portland, OR** – This week saw a glimmer of hope for the struggling Houston Dash and Portland Thorns as both teams snapped losing streaks. The Dash earned their first victory since May with a 1-0 win over Seattle, ending a nine-game winless run. The hero of the match was veteran forward Yuki Nagasato, whose 50th-minute volley left the Seattle keeper stunned. Meanwhile, the Thorns earned their first point since July with a 2-2 draw against Angel City, ending a four-game losing streak.

**Minnesota Lynx Dominate WNBA Awards**

The WNBA saw a wave of recognition for Minnesota Lynx players and coach. Napheesa Collier earned the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year award, her first, while Head Coach Cheryl Reeve made history by winning both Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year awards, marking the second time a coach has achieved this feat.

**Womens’ Soccer Takes Center Stage in EA Sports FC 25**

In a significant move, EA Sports FC 25 has introduced a Women’s Manager and Player Career Mode, offering players a chance to manage and play in some of the world’s top women’s leagues, including the NWSL, WSL, and UEFA Women’s Champions League. This is the latest in a series of steps from EA Sports to elevate women’s soccer within the game.

**Playoffs Looming for Both NWSL and WNBA**

The NWSL playoff race is heating up with the Thorns fighting to secure a spot despite their recent struggles. In the WNBA, the New York Liberty and Connecticut Sun both emerged victorious in the first round of the semifinals, while the Aces and Lynx face a tough battle to stay in contention.

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