The 2025 WNBA season tips off tonight—and it’s already shaping up to be one of the most unforgettable in league history. Last year saw varied performances and significant changes among teams and players, setting the stage for this season. Projections for the upcoming season are continually updated based on last year’s performances, helping fans make informed picks on DFS platforms like PrizePicks. From high-profile trades and retirements to superstar debuts, the court is set for a season filled with intensity, talent, and transformation.
Introduction to the WNBA Season
The 2025 WNBA season is set to be an exhilarating ride, with the league expanding to include the Golden State Valkyries. This addition brings the total to 13 teams, each vying for supremacy. The defending champions, the New York Liberty, are on a mission to repeat their success from last season. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Aces, led by the indomitable A’ja Wilson, are poised for a deep playoff run. The Dallas Wings, bolstered by the arrival of rookie sensation Paige Bueckers, are looking to improve on their previous performance. As the WNBA season tips off on opening night, fans can expect thrilling matchups, including a showdown between the Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx. Buckle up for a season filled with high stakes and unforgettable moments.
WNBA 2025 Power Rankings: Who’s Got Next?
1. New York Liberty – Still the favorites despite thinner wing depth. The team has consistently ranked highly in various performance metrics, showcasing their strong standing in the league.
The New York Liberty’s chances to win the championship this season are bolstered by their high rankings and past performance metrics.
2. Minnesota Lynx – Continuity, chemistry, and a chip on their shoulder.
3. Las Vegas Aces – Star power reloaded, but depth is a concern.
4. Indiana Fever – Bonner, Howard, and Clark headline a dynamic new starting five.
5. Phoenix Mercury – High-end talent with high variability.
6. Seattle Storm – Defense-heavy, anchored by rookie phenom Malonga.
7. Chicago Sky – Organized and developing around Reese and Cardoso.
8. Atlanta Dream – Fit questions, but raw talent is undeniable.
9. Dallas Wings – New leadership and Paige Bueckers at the helm.
10. Los Angeles Sparks – Plum starts a new era in L.A.
11. Washington Mystics – Youth movement and offensive experimentation.
12. Golden State Valkyries – Expansion year growing pains expected.
Key Offseason Trades and Roster Changes
New York Liberty
- Added: Natasha Cloud
- Lost: Laney-Hamilton (injury), Vandersloot (to CHI), Thornton (expansion)
- Impact: Still a top-tier team, but thinner bench could matter. The New York Liberty have won multiple playoff series in recent years, showcasing their strong performance and potential for future success.
Minnesota Lynx
- Added: Returning core
- Lost: Grace Berger
- Impact: Built for vengeance after Finals loss; smart, consistent squad aiming to secure a spot in the playoffs.
Connecticut Sun
- Added: Tina Charles, Sheldon, Coach Meziane, top rookies
- Lost: Alyssa Thomas, Bonner, Cloud, Carrington, more
- Impact: Complete rebuild. Eight-year playoff streak likely ends after several strong seasons.
Las Vegas Aces
- Added: Jewell Loyd, bench depth
- Lost: Kelsey Plum, Clark, Hayes, Colson
- Impact: Still dangerous, but no longer invincible.
Indiana Fever
- Added: Bonner, Natasha Howard, Colson, Coach White
- Lost: Berger, Samuelson
- Impact: Clark debuts with a veteran-loaded roster, including the strategic acquisition of defensive player Natasha Howard. Real title buzz.
Phoenix Mercury
Added: Alyssa Thomas, Sabally, Whitcomb
Lost: Taurasi (retired), Griner (to ATL), Bonner, Cloud
Impact: A top-heavy lineup that could experience a bit of variability in performance.
Seattle Storm
- Added: Clark, Malonga, Li Yueru
- Lost: Jewell Loyd, 3 players to ACL injuries
- Impact: Defensive intensity + new franchise face = intrigue.
Dallas Wings
- Added: Paige Bueckers, Carrington, NaLyssa Smith
- Lost: Sabally, Howard, Brown
- Impact: Bueckers is the future, but the frontcourt remains a concern. Since the team moved to Texas in 2016, the Dallas Wings have faced consistent struggles and losses, making these roster changes crucial for their strategy to improve performance.
Chicago Sky
- Added: Vandersloot, Van Lith, Allen, new coach Marsh
- Lost: Carter, DeShields
- Impact: Stability and leadership are the new foundation, with much talk about the team’s new leadership and how it will shape their future.
Atlanta Dream
- Added: Griner, Brionna Jones, Coach Smesko
- Lost: Haley Jones
- Impact: Interior power meets 3-point system. Will it click? Allisha Gray, one of the leading scorers for the Atlanta Dream, could significantly impact the team’s performance alongside Rhyne Howard.
Los Angeles Sparks
- Added: Kelsey Plum, Coach Roberts
- Lost: No. 2 pick, McDonald waived
- Impact: Plum is the engine of a hopeful turnaround. The team aims to create new strategies around her dynamic playmaking abilities, focusing on optimizing player selections and projections to enhance their performance.
Golden State Valkyries
- Added: Hayes, Thornton, Leite (rookie)
- Lost: Expansion-level losses
- Impact: As an expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries face significant challenges in their inaugural season, marking year one of a long-term project.
Eastern Conference Outlook
The Eastern Conference is shaping up to be a battleground, with teams like the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, and Washington Mystics all in the hunt for playoff spots. The Dream, under the guidance of head coach Karl Smesko, aim to build on last season’s success with the formidable additions of Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones. The Chicago Sky, now led by head coach Tyler Marsh, are looking to elevate their game with the help of rookie Angel Reese. Over in Washington, the Mystics, with new head coach Sydney Johnson at the helm, are in a rebuilding phase after a disappointing last season. The Indiana Fever, spearheaded by the electrifying Caitlin Clark, are another team to watch closely in the Eastern Conference. Expect fierce competition and plenty of drama as these teams battle it out.
Western Conference Outlook
The Western Conference promises to be equally competitive, with powerhouses like the Las Vegas Aces, Los Angeles Sparks, and Seattle Storm all eyeing playoff berths. The Aces, led by A’ja Wilson, are determined to make a deep playoff run, leveraging their strong roster. The Sparks, under new head coach Curt Miller, are in a rebuilding phase after a tough last season, but with high hopes for a turnaround. The Seattle Storm, guided by head coach Stephanie White, are looking to build on their success from last season with a solid roster. The Phoenix Mercury, with the addition of Alyssa Thomas, are another team to keep an eye on in the Western Conference. The stage is set for a thrilling season as these teams vie for dominance.
Rising Stars and Must-Watch Players
- Caitlin Clark (Fever): One of the most anticipated debuts in WNBA history, her career is set to be closely watched as she transitions from college to the professional league.
- Paige Bueckers (Wings): A game-ready rookie poised to change Dallas’ fate.
- A’ja Wilson (Aces): Still dominant, still MVP-level.
- Dominique Malonga (Storm): A potential franchise player with Wembanyama comparisons.
Fantasy Basketball and Player Props
Fantasy basketball and player props are set to be a major highlight of the WNBA season, with fans eagerly placing bets on games and player performances through the WNBA League Pass. A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces is a top pick for fantasy basketball enthusiasts, as is the Dallas Wings’ rookie sensation Paige Bueckers. The Atlanta Dream’s Brionna Jones and the Washington Mystics’ Natasha Howard are also popular choices for fantasy picks. Fans can make their WNBA picks and place bets on games through various platforms, including the WNBA App. This season, the excitement extends beyond the court, with fans actively engaging in fantasy leagues and player prop bets.
Opening Night Highlights
- Clark’s debut headlines a stacked Indiana lineup
- Kelsey Plum’s first game leading the Sparks
- Can the Liberty stay elite without their full supporting cast?
- Will the Lynx exact revenge in their Finals journey?
WNBA App and Streaming
The WNBA App is the ultimate destination for fans to watch games and follow their favorite teams. Offering live and on-demand streaming of games, the app also features exclusive content and behind-the-scenes footage. Fans can watch games, place bets on games and player performances, and stay updated with the latest news through the app. The WNBA League Pass, available through the app, allows fans to watch games and follow their favorite teams all season long. Available for download on both iOS and Android devices, the app provides a seamless and immersive experience with multiple streaming options, including WNBA League Pass and single-game tickets. Don’t miss a moment of the action with the WNBA App.
Final Thoughts
This season delivers everything fans crave: new faces, old rivalries, and title dreams reshaped by seismic offseason moves. Over the past seasons, teams have undergone significant changes in rosters, coaching staff, and overall dynamics, setting the stage for an exciting journey. From the debut of future stars to veteran comebacks and bold rebuilds, the 2025 WNBA season is primed to be unforgettable.