The WNBA MVP award has entered its seventh year during the era of A’ja Wilson. Since 2020, Wilson has collected four MVP trophies and two Finals MVP awards. Voting trends show there are notable contenders emerging behind her. Napheesa Collier has secured second place for the past two years, while Alyssa Thomas consistently ranks within the top five. Additionally, Liberty teammates Brianna Stewart (2023) and Jonquel Jones (2021, previously with The Sun) have claimed the MVP accolade in odd-numbered years.
Looking ahead, 2025 might usher in a season of change. Could it be Caitlin Clark’s first MVP season? The Indiana Fever is anticipated to become one of the top teams in the league. Following an injury-riddled second year, Clark remains highly motivated. With the league’s increasing popularity and new collective bargaining agreements, fans are beginning to rally behind rising stars like Clark, who could lead the charge for a new era.
FanDuel’s odds for the 2026 WNBA MVP indicate early favorites and those potentially set for a standout season.
1. A’ja Wilson, C, Las Vegas Aces (+200)
Aside from being named Defensive Player of the Year, Wilson had impressive shooting stats: 50 percent from the field, 40 percent from beyond the arc, and 80 percent from the free-throw line last year.
2. Caitlin Clark, G, Indiana Fever (+250)
Now fully healthy, Clark is prepared to lead a revamped Indiana Fever team. In the one season she was injury-free, she received accolades as an All-WNBA First Team member and Rookie of the Year.
3. Napheesa Collier, C, Minnesota Lynx (+1000)
Collier will be absent for at least the first month due to ankle surgery but set personal bests last season in points, blocks, and shooting percentage.
4. Breanna Stewart, F, New York Liberty (+1000)
Fresh off a EuroLeague championship, Stewart looks fit to replicate her MVP-caliber performance from last season.
5. Sabrina Ionescu, G, New York Liberty (+1500)
Ionescu’s role in the Liberty’s offense will be pivotal under the guidance of new head coach Chris DeMarco, likely allowing her to post notable scoring and assist figures with one of the league’s top squads.
6. Paige Bueckers, G, Dallas Wings (+2000)
Bueckers was awarded Rookie of the Year and secured a place on the All-WNBA second team last year. She has shown capability as a scorer, playmaker, and defender.
7. Alyssa Thomas, F, Phoenix Mercury (+2000)
Thomas nearly averaged a triple-double last season, achieving 15.4 PPG, 9.2 APG, and 8.8 RPG while finishing third in MVP voting. This year, her responsibilities may increase following Sato Sabally’s move to New York.
8. Kelsey Plumb, G, Los Angeles Sparks (+2500)
Plumb has a championship pedigree, having won twice with Las Vegas. After moving to Los Angeles, she increased her assist and rebound statistics, and the Sparks are planning an offseason geared toward her strengths.
9. Rhyne Howard, F, Atlanta Dream (+2500)
Howard made significant contributions defensively with 1.5 steals and 27 blocks last season, securing the top spot on her team for three-pointers per game. If he improves efficiency, the 2022 No. 1 draft pick could emerge as an MVP contender.
10. Alisha Gray, G, Atlanta Dream (+2500)
Gray played a crucial role in leading the Dream to 30 wins last season, marking career highs in several stats and finishing fourth in MVP voting.
Nneka Ogwumike (+4000) returns to the Sparks looking for another title. Having maintained impressive field goal percentages over his 14-season career, he remains a consistent threat.
Sato Sabally (+4000) saw his scoring increase to 19 points per game during last year’s playoffs but faced setbacks due to a concussion and suspension with the Mercury. However, his move to New York might be beneficial alongside sharp-shooting teammates.
Aaliyah Boston (+5000) elevated her game during last season’s playoffs, becoming a standout rebounder and providing a variety of offensive options for a Fever squad attracting media attention.
Jackie Young (+7500) in her prime, she has made a significant impact on both ends of the floor, increasing her scoring on the way to her third WNBA championship with the Aces.
Marina Mabrey (+7500) will be at the helm of Toronto’s fast-paced offense, showcasing advanced shot-making and play-making abilities on transition plays.
Carla Copper (+7500) is expected to be the primary scorer and a top wing defender for a Mercury team focused on staying competitive at the top of the league.
