If you’re visiting this page, it’s likely that you’re seeking some assistance on how to approach Strands — the New York Times’ innovative take on the timeless word search puzzle.

Strands invites players to uncover words concealed within a grid of letters. Unlike conventional word searches, the words in Strands can twist in any direction — up, down, sideways, or diagonally — and can even alter their course mid-word. Every letter in the grid contributes to a solution, and all the words are linked by a unifying theme. A unique word or phrase, known as the “spangram,” binds the theme together and spans the grid either horizontally or vertically.

RELATED: Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more — enjoy free games on Mashable

What sets Strands apart in terms of challenge is its lack of a word list for players to seek. Instead, you receive a vague hint related to the theme, elevating it to a brain teaser status compared to other NYT games such as Wordle or Connections.

If you’re pressed for time or simply at a standstill, fret not — we have all the hints and answers you require to tackle today’s Strands puzzle at your leisure.

RELATED: Wordle today — hints and answer for May 17

RELATED: NYT Connections clues and answers for May 17

Today’s NYT Strands Theme Hint: “She’s got game”

Hint Explanation: All the words pertain to women’s sports teams.

Spangram Direction: Vertical

Spangram Answer: Basketball

Strands Word List for May 17:

– Storm
– Fever
– Wings
– Dream
– Basketball
– Mercury
– Liberty
– Lynx

Looking for more daily puzzles and games? Explore Mashable’s Games page for even more hints and solutions. You can also check out our games hub to engage in Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more — all free of charge.

Missed a day? No worries — here’s the solution to yesterday’s Strands puzzle.