WNBA general managers shared their bold opinions ahead of the upcoming season.

WNBA General Manager Survey Insights

Each year, the WNBA conducts a survey where General Managers answer a mix of light-hearted and serious questions about the upcoming season. The process is straightforward: they anonymously respond to 40 questions without being able to vote for their own players or teams. Let’s explore some highlights from this year’s survey.

One standout finding was the strong expectation that the Minnesota Lynx would clinch the WNBA Finals, capturing 60% of the overall votes. The New York team followed in second place with 20%, while both Indiana and Las Vegas received 10% each. Additionally, Minnesota was recognized as the best defensive team, achieving a remarkable 73% of the votes.

As for the league’s MVP, the consensus favored Napheesa Collier, who garnered 67% of the votes. A’ja Wilson, last year’s MVP, received 25%, with Caitlin Clark trailing at 8%. Collier also took the title for the league’s best overall defender with 37% of the votes, and if GMs were to form a new team, Kate Linklark would be their top pick at 50%.

Interestingly, Kate Linklark and Chelsea Gray ended up in a 50/50 tie for the best guard. Wilson and Collier shared the top spot for the best forward category, each taking 33%. Wilson was also recognized as the best center, although that’s a topic with differing opinions.

The Indiana Fever were noted for their offseason activities, taking 64% of the votes for the best offseason moves. The most unexpected signing was Dewanna Bonner, and Indiana is expected to show significant improvement in the coming season.

Paige Bueckers is anticipated to be a standout rookie in 2025, leading her category with 73% of the votes. Dominique Malonga received 18% but was noted as the rookie most likely to become a star in five years, winning 60% of that particular vote over Bueckers’ 40%. Aaliyah Nai from Las Vegas and Mikailla Thompson from Indiana both received equal recognition as potential draft steals.

Jonquel Jones was recognized as the league’s best international player, with France being acknowledged for producing the finest talent outside the U.S., capturing 92% of the votes. Interestingly, Canada was noted with a hint of sarcasm as a potential candidate.

For individual accolades, Dehony Carrington was named the best boundary defender, while Wilson earned the title for the best interior defender.

In coaching, Cheryl Reeve stood out as the best coach, securing 83% of the votes. She was also deemed the best motivator and for in-game adjustments and offensive strategy. Steph White received recognition as the coach likely to have the biggest impact on a new team. Furthermore, Chelsea Gray was mentioned as a player who could become an excellent coach in the future.

Indiana was the choice for the team expected to be the most enjoyable in 2025 and also for having a promising young core. A’ja Wilson and Napheesa Collier tied as the league’s best leaders, while Collier was recognized as the most versatile player. Gray was highlighted for having exceptional basketball intelligence and for her decision-making in critical moments.