Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns.

Today's spangram answer on Saturday, May 17, 2025, is BASKETBALL. Angelina Jolie, the godmother of the Trophée Chopard Award at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, made a stunning debut on the red carpet. See photos.

Warning: Spoilers lie ahead for Strands #440. The official theme for NYT Strands #440 is... "She's got game". And here's an unofficial hint from me: "Sports teams". If you're still in the dark, here are some useful words to give you those valuable clue tokens: