WNBA Update Post All-Star Weekend
WNBA All-Star Weekend has wrapped up, and games will kick back into gear on Tuesday night. During the event, Azhi Fudd made history as the inaugural Three Point Champion, Jonquel Jones took home the MVP award, and viewers were treated to live off-court action through the StudBuzz 72-hour stream.
As we find ourselves in the second half of the season, it’s worth examining the current landscape and noting five of the toughest teams so far.
The Lynx lead the pack with an impressive record of 22 wins and 6 losses, outpacing their opponents by an average of 8.7 points per game—the highest margin in the league. They even managed to secure seven consecutive wins during the break.
What’s even more intriguing is that Nafeesa Collier has only played in one game this season. Having made her return on July 22 after two ankle surgeries, she posted 24 points and 10 rebounds in her comeback. She will be joining a strong lineup featuring All-Stars Olivia Miles and Natasha Howard, along with reserve Courtney Williams. Kayla McBride, who’s notably not a fan of All-Star fame, adds to this mix. Collier’s return is set to enhance their defense, while Miles has been on fire, transitioning from Rookie of the Year to MVP contender.
In short, it seems like the Lynx are the team to beat right now.
The Aces sit third in the standings, boasting an 18-8 record, bolstered by their recent championship wins over the last four seasons. Though they dropped two of their last three games before the break (including a shocking 34-point loss to the Indiana Fever), their past success might overshadow these recent blips.
A’ja Wilson continues her MVP-worthy performance, averaging 26.1 points, 9.5 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, and 1.6 steals. Jackie Young has stepped up impressively too, contributing 16.7 points and 6.8 assists per game. On the other hand, Chelsea Gray’s numbers sit at 12.6 points and 7.4 assists, but Chennedy Carter is no longer with the team after being waived earlier this month.
Despite some inconsistencies, the Aces have a remarkable postseason history, making the regular season feel somewhat like a formality as they gear up for the playoffs.
3. Golden State Valkyries
The Valkyries enjoyed a winning streak of nine games before their last setback and have appeared formidable throughout the season. With a 19-8 record, they possess the second-best standing in the league, facing a relatively easier schedule ahead.
Gabby Williams led the charge as an All-Star starter this season, averaging 14.8 points and 1.7 steals per game. Key contributions also came from Janelle Saraun with 12.8 points and 4 rebounds, while Veronica Barton added 11.9 points and 5.5 assists. Kaitlyn Chen had a breakout performance off the bench, chipping in 7.7 points per game.
Though Golden State may lack big-name stars, they possess a roster full of skilled two-way players, including Kayla Thornton and Tiffany Hayes, and their coaching staff, led by Natalie Nakase, has created a strong defensive identity.
Moving to the Wings, they are navigating the second-easiest remaining schedule at 18-9. Paige Bueckers is having a breakout season, averaging 20.9 points and 6.2 assists, while Jessica Shepard transitioned from a bench role in Minnesota to an All-Star starter in Dallas.
Although Arike Ogunbowale has faced efficiency issues, Aji Fudd is producing 13.2 points per game with solid shooting percentages this season. While the Wings might still need a couple of years to reach true championship status, their potential to compete with the best is definitely there.
The Fever have secured the fifth-best record in the league at 17-10 and boast a goal differential of +5.9. Their remaining schedule is among the toughest, barring the Aces’. However, the talent on this roster is impressive.
Caitlin Clark is having a standout year, averaging 21 points and 7.9 assists. Kelsey Mitchell is improving as well, leading the team with 23.3 points per game while shooting 42.5% from three. Aliyah Boston also holds her own, averaging 17.3 points and 8.5 rebounds. Supporting players like Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull contribute as well.
The big question remains: Can the Fever hold up defensively to clinch the title?
This is something that will certainly be in the spotlight come playoff time.
Honorable Mentions: Atlanta Dream (16-10) and New York Liberty (15-12)
The Dream were showing great form, but a five-game losing streak hit their rankings hard. They currently sit sixth in records and tied for fifth in differential, with a favorable schedule ahead. Rhyne Howard, Angel Reese, and Alesha Gray all deserved their All-Star spots, and Breonna Jones is back from injury.
Conversely, the Liberty struggled early due to various injuries among key players. They might be poised for a midseason turnaround similar to the Aces from last year, but thus far, inconsistency has been a real hurdle.
