The much-awaited 2025 WNBA season kicks off today, with Page Bueckers set to make her professional debut as the Golden State Valkyries prepare for their first regular season matchup.
Running from May 16 to September 14, the season promises to be filled with intriguing storylines. Will the Minnesota Lynx find redemption after last year’s devastating finals loss? Is the revamped Indiana Fever poised to shine in Kate Linklark’s second season? Can New York’s freedom continue unbroken? How will A’ja Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces respond after last year’s exclusion? And what adjustments will Kelsey Plum face in her new L.A. surroundings? The questions are endless.
Preseason predictions have surfaced regarding the MVP, Rookie of the Year, Coach of the Year, and, ultimately, the WNBA Champion.
MVP Prediction: Napheesa Collier
Napheesa Collier shone as one of the league’s top players last season, averaging 20.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in anticipation of her first finals appearance. Although the Lynx fell just short in Game 5 last year, Collier stood out as the most impressive player against the Liberty. Her previous season was notable, with averages of 25.7 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. While other candidates boast star power, the Lynx maintain a core almost unchanged, giving Collier a strong chance to become the league’s MVP if she can replicate her past performance.
Other potential MVP picks include A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces) and Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever).
Rookie of the Year Prediction: Paige Bueckers
Paige Bueckers seems to be the obvious choice for Rookie of the Year, though surprises are always possible. The former UConn standout, drafted first overall, joins the Dallas Wings after a tough season, teaming up with players like Arike Ogunbowale and Dijonai Carrington.
Bueckers has shown remarkable efficiency in college basketball, suggesting she’ll transition well to the WNBA. With her talent and supportive teammates, she seems prepared to leave a significant mark.
Other potential Rookie of the Year candidates include Dominique Malonga (Seattle Storm) and Sonia Citron (Washington Mystics).
Coach of the Year Prediction: Stephanie White
It’s tricky to forecast the Coach of the Year, but Stephanie White appears to be a solid choice given her situation with an enhanced roster. The team is well-equipped to exceed a .500 record. Having been named Coach of the Year in 2023, White is regarded as one of the top coaches in the league.
Other candidates for Coach of the Year might include Tyler Marsh (Chicago Sky) and Carls Mesco (Atlanta Dream).
Championship Prediction: Indiana Fever
The New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx look strong contenders for the 2025 WNBA Championship. Both teams from the 2024 finals have retained much of their talent. The Liberty has added Marine Johannes and Natasha Cloud but lost Courtney VanderSloot (to free agency) and Vitniya Rainey Hamilton (due to injury). The Lynx, meanwhile, lost Cecilia Zandalasini but mostly kept their core intact.
The Las Vegas Aces also remain a formidable candidate, having won two of the last three championships. Chelsea Gray is healthy after an outstanding season, and with MVP A’ja Wilson in the mix, they’re not to be underestimated.
On paper, though, the Indiana Fever seem to have the most balanced team. They boast a top-tier guard in Kate Linklark. Kelsey Mitchell is coming off a career-best season, while Aliya Boston is a two-time All-Star. Besides, with the offseason addition of Dewanna Bonner, Sophie Cunningham, and Natasha Howard, they’ve bolstered their lineup considerably.
It will be interesting to see how everything comes together under White’s leadership, as the Fever appear ready to compete now.
Other championship picks to watch include the New York Liberty, Minnesota Lynx, and Las Vegas Ace.
