WNBA 2025 Season Preview: Predictions and Player Updates

Source: ESPN

Exciting Matchups and Debuts Await

The 2025 WNBA season is just around the corner, and fans are buzzing with anticipation. With the New York Liberty coming off their first championship in 2024, can they repeat their success? All eyes will also be on No. 1 draft pick Paige Bueckers, as she makes her debut with the Dallas Wings against heavyweights like the Minnesota Lynx.

On opening weekend, the Liberty are set to face the Las Vegas Aces, a rematch that promises to captivate audiences, while Indiana Fever’s rookie stars, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, will take on the Chicago Sky.

Key Predictions for the Season

According to a panel of ESPN experts including Kendra Andrews, Michael Voepel, and Alexa Philippou, several teams and players are set to make an impact this season:

• New York Liberty: Strong contenders to defend their title despite challenges, including the absence of Betnijah Laney-Hamilton due to knee surgery.
• Minnesota Lynx: Many believe they are poised for a comeback after getting painfully close to the championship last season.
• Las Vegas Aces: Aces are always a threat, having two titles under their belt recently, but they hope to overcome last season’s disappointing performance against the Liberty.
• Indiana Fever: With a blend of rookies and new talent, they are generating excitement and could surprise many this year.

Top MVP Contenders

This year’s MVP race is heating up with several standout players:

• A’ja Wilson: The reigning MVP is a frontrunner as she seeks to secure a historic fourth title.
• Napheesa Collier: Having been named a favorite in preseason surveys, she carries momentum from her championship run.
• Paige Bueckers: Anticipation swirls around her debut performance and the impact she could have on her new team.

Player Transactions and Updates

As the WNBA team rosters finalize, here are some notable transactions and injury updates:

• The Connecticut Sun have waived former All-Star guard Diamond DeShields, a surprising move in a competitive roster.
• Dearica Hamby‘s lawsuit against the WNBA has been permitted to move forward, generating significant media interest.
• The Liberty will be without Betnijah Laney-Hamilton for the season, a loss that could be felt on the court.

The Buzz Around New Players

With several player movements this offseason, a few key changes have caught attention:

• Brittney Griner is set to take on a new role with the Atlanta Dream, a shift many fans are eager to see.
• New signings like Kelsey Plum joining the Los Angeles Sparks have increased excitement around her competitive spirit and prior championship experience.
• The Phoenix Mercury have transformed significantly, looking forward to the synergy between their new trio, including Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper.

What to Look Forward to This Season

The stakes are high as the WNBA approaches its 29th season. With thrilling matchups and emerging talents, combined with skilled veterans, fans are in for a treat. They will witness spectacular games featuring star players like Breanna Stewart, Caitlin Clark, and others who are determined to make their mark.

For those planning to catch the games live, the Liberty are favored to claim back-to-back titles, although the competition from the Lynx and Aces remains formidable. As the season begins, expect intense battles on the court and a spotlight on player performances amid a backdrop of renewed rivalries and aspiring new legends.

Tags: WNBA, New York Liberty, Paige Bueckers, A’ja Wilson, Minnesota Lynx, Las Vegas Aces, Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Women’s Sports