WNBA 2025 Season Overview

We're one month into the 2025 WNBA season, and the landscape is already taking shape. The New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx have emerged as the top contenders, while a couple of teams are struggling to find their footing. Here’s a breakdown of the season so far, with grades and key insights for each team.

New York Liberty (9-0): A

The Liberty have been nothing short of dominant, boasting an unblemished record and outscoring opponents by a staggering 171 points. They lead the league in both offensive and defensive ratings, with a net rating of 23.4. Key players like Natasha Cloud and Kennedy Burke have stepped up, while the team’s stars continue to shine. Even without Nyara Sabally and Jonquel Jones at full strength, the Liberty’s depth is proving to be a significant asset.

Minnesota Lynx (9-1): A

The Lynx have also started strong, with their only loss coming against the Seattle Storm. Napheesa Collier is the early favorite for MVP, averaging 25.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. The return of Jessica Shepard has bolstered the bench, making the Lynx a formidable force once again.

Phoenix Mercury (7-4): A-

Despite injuries to key players like Kahleah Copper, the Mercury have managed to stay competitive. Rookies Lexi Held and Monique Akoa Makani have been impressive, helping Phoenix to its best start since 2018. The team’s defensive identity has been a pleasant surprise, ranking fourth in defensive rating.

Atlanta Dream (6-3): B+

The Dream have shown promise under new coach Karl Smesko, with Allisha Gray emerging as a strong candidate for Most Improved Player. Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones are still developing their chemistry, but the team looks poised to compete for home-court advantage in the playoffs.

Seattle Storm (6-4): B+

The Storm ended Minnesota’s undefeated streak with a 94-84 victory, showcasing their potential. Veteran guard Erica Wheeler has been a key addition, providing much-needed 3-point shooting and playmaking. The development of rookie Dominique Malonga is also a positive sign for the future.

Golden State Valkyries (4-5): B

In their inaugural season, the Valkyries have exceeded expectations. A 27-point win over the Las Vegas Aces was a highlight, demonstrating their potential. Kayla Thornton and Veronica Burton have been standout players, while rookie Janelle Salaun has been a welcome surprise.

Washington Mystics (4-6): B

Despite starting two rookies, the Mystics have been competitive. Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron have been impressive, with Iriafen averaging a double-double. Veteran Brittney Sykes has also stepped up, showcasing newfound playmaking abilities.

Indiana Fever (4-5): C+

The Fever have struggled without Caitlin Clark, who has been sidelined with a quad injury. Aliyah Boston and Lexie Hull have shown improvement, but the team needs Clark back to reach its full potential.

Los Angeles Sparks (3-7): C-

The Sparks have been inconsistent, with Kelsey Plum and Rickea Jackson providing bright spots. However, the team has struggled against opponents with winning records, and their playoff hopes are fading.

Las Vegas Aces (4-4): D+

The Aces have been a disappointment, with A’ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray carrying the load. Jewell Loyd has struggled, and the team’s effort has been called into question by coach Becky Hammon.

Connecticut Sun (2-7): D

The Sun have been outscored by 157 points, the worst point differential in WNBA history. Despite some bright spots, the team is struggling to find consistency.

Chicago Sky (2-6): F

The Sky have been one of the league’s worst teams, with high turnover rates and poor shooting. The loss of Courtney Vandersloot to a season-ending injury has been a significant blow.

Dallas Wings (1-10): F

The Wings have been the league’s worst team, with a -7.0 point differential. Paige Bueckers’ return provides some hope, but the team has a long way to go.

Key Questions

• Which team has the most potential to prevent a Minnesota-New York WNBA Finals rematch?

  • The Indiana Fever, with Caitlin Clark’s return, could be a dark horse.

• Is this a sign of parity in the WNBA?

  • The crowded middle tier suggests a lack of parity, with the Liberty and Lynx dominating.

• Who is the most impactful player in the league right now?

  • Napheesa Collier is the MVP favorite, but Caitlin Clark’s return could change the landscape.

• What storyline has the most potential to change between now and the start of the playoffs?

  • Health will be a significant factor, with key players like Clark and Kahleah Copper expected to return.

As the season progresses, the Liberty and Lynx remain the teams to beat, but the race for the playoffs is heating up. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis.