It often seems like the top players in the WNBA are just competing for the MVP runner-up spot. A’ja Wilson has secured this title in three of the last five seasons, and based on her performance so far this season, it appears she might clinch it again.
However, it’s still relatively early, and there are several other players presenting strong arguments for the MVP title.
Here’s how my MVP rankings look after the All-Star break.
1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas Aces
Performance: 26.1 points, 9.5 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, 1.6 steals
Efficiency: FG 53.3%, 3P 44.6%, FT 84.1%
Team record: 18 wins, 8 losses
Currently, A’ja Wilson stands out as the league’s best player. She leads the WNBA in scoring—by a fair margin—and ranks third in rebounds while being one of the top defenders around. This sentiment about her excellence isn’t new, but it’s hard to see anyone else surpassing her for MVP.
2. Paige Bueckers, Dallas Wings
Performance: 20.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 0.7 blocks, 1.4 steals
Efficiency: FG 51.3%, 3P 39.7%, FT 85.7%
Team record: 18 wins, 9 losses
Paige Bueckers is having a standout sophomore season. She’s more assertive and decisive in crunch time, which has been crucial for the Wings. Not only does she shoot well from long range, but she also ranks sixth in scoring and is among the top players in assists.
3. Olivia Miles, Minnesota Lynx
Performance: 19.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 6 assists, 1.3 blocks, 0.8 steals
Efficiency: 49.4% FG, 35.8% 3P, 87.3% FT
Team record: 22 wins, 6 losses
Olivia Miles is having an extraordinary rookie season. She ranks among the top scorers and playmakers, contributing significantly to the Lynx’s success as one of the best teams. Her standing as a top contender for MVP stems from her being the key player on the top team, though her defensive shortcomings might hinder her candidacy. Still, it’s undeniable that her impact on wins is unparalleled among her peers.
4. Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever
Performance: 21 points, 3.8 rebounds, 7.9 assists, 0.9 blocks, 0.6 steals
Efficiency: 42.5% FG, 34.5% 3P, 86.4% FT
Team record: 17 wins, 10 losses
Caitlin Clark stands fourth in scoring and second in assists. While she also has defensive room for improvement, she’s a vital component for the Fever’s success. This year has seen her compile the most efficient numbers of her career. To enhance her MVP chances, the Fever will need to rise in the standings, but maintaining her shooting consistency should help her cause. She is already listed among the MVP contenders.
5. Brianna Stewart, New York Liberty
Performance: 21.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1.2 blocks, 1.4 steals
Efficiency: 46.7% FG, 26.8% 3P, 85.7% FT
Team record: 15 wins, 12 losses
Brianna Stewart has contributed immensely for the Liberty, but her team’s struggles have made it tough for her to firmly place in the MVP discussion. Currently, the Liberty is seventh in the league and has seen a downturn, losing six of their last ten games. Nonetheless, Stewart remains a bright spot, ranking third in scoring, eighth in rebounding, and fifth in blocks. She’s a two-time MVP, but to be truly in the running again, New York needs to improve its season’s trajectory.
