As a lifelong basketball fan who’s covered the WNBA for over a decade, I’ve watched this league evolve from niche appeal to a global phenomenon. The 2025 season has been nothing short of thrilling so far—record-breaking attendance, viral moments from rookies, and intense battles for playoff spots.
With the season now past its midpoint as of late July, we’re seeing contenders emerge and underdogs surprise. If you’re searching for a complete guide to the 2025 WNBA season, including schedule highlights, team breakdowns, standout players, and viewing options, you’ve come to the right place.
I’ll share my insights based on years of following the action, plus the latest updates to keep you in the loop.
The Basics: Why the 2025 WNBA Season Is a Game-Changer
The 2025 WNBA season officially tipped off on May 16, marking the league’s 29th year and introducing some major shifts. For starters, we’ve got 13 teams in play, thanks to the exciting addition of the Golden State Valkyries as the newest expansion franchise.
This West Coast squad has brought fresh talent and fan energy, expanding the league’s footprint and creating new rivalries right out of the gate.
Each team is grinding through a demanding 44-game regular season schedule the longest yet which runs until September 11. This extended format has amplified the drama, with more opportunities for comebacks and upsets. From my perspective, this season’s buzz stems from the perfect storm of veteran superstars chasing rings, a blockbuster rookie class making instant impacts, and off-court developments like the ongoing CBA negotiations that could reshape player salaries and travel (WNBA.com).
Attendance is up 48% from last year, and viewership has shattered records, proving the WNBA’s rising status in sports culture. If you’ve ever doubted women’s basketball, this season will change your mind it’s competitive, athletic, and full of heart-stopping moments.
Key Dates and Schedule Highlights You Can’t Miss
The 2025 schedule is jam-packed, and as someone who’s marked my calendar for every big game, I recommend doing the same. The regular season kicked off with marquee matchups like the Minnesota Lynx vs. Dallas Wings and Washington Mystics vs. Atlanta Dream on May 16. Fast-forward to now, and we’re deep into July, with teams jockeying for position before the All-Star break.
Here’s a breakdown of the must-know dates:
- Commissioner’s Cup Tournament (June 1 – July 1): This in-season showdown featured intra-conference games, with the New York Liberty emerging as champions after a nail-biter final. It’s like the NBA’s In-Season Tournament but with a $500,000 prize pool that amps up early-season intensity (CBS Sports).
- All-Star Weekend (July 17-21): Held in Indianapolis, the All-Star Game on July 19 showcased the league’s best, including fan favorites like Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson. The skills challenge and three-point contest were highlights, and from what I saw, the rookies stole the show (ESPN).
- Regular Season End (September 11): Playoff berths will be finalized here, leading into the postseason starting September 14.
- Playoffs and Finals (September 14 – October): The playoffs follow a best-of-three first round, best-of-five semis and finals. Expect the Finals to wrap up in mid-October, potentially crowning a new dynasty.
With games nearly every night, check the official schedule for specifics—rivalries like Liberty vs. Aces or Fever vs. Sky are always electric (WNBA.com).
Current Standings and Team Breakdowns
As of July 26, 2025, the standings are heating up, with the Eastern Conference led by the powerhouse New York Liberty at 17-6. The Atlanta Dream sit at 14-10, while the Indiana Fever, fueled by Caitlin Clark’s playmaking, are hanging tough at 13-12. In the West, the Minnesota Lynx are dominating with a strong defense, and the Las Vegas Aces are rebounding from early injuries to stay in contention. The expansion Golden State Valkyries are holding their own at around .500, surprising many with their grit.
Full standings snapshot (as of July 26):
| Conference | Team | Record | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern | New York Liberty | 17-6 | Top seed, defending champs on a roll |
| Eastern | Atlanta Dream | 14-10 | Balanced scoring keeping them competitive |
| Eastern | Indiana Fever | 13-12 | Clark’s assists leading the charge |
| Eastern | Washington Mystics | 11-12 | Rookies shining but consistency needed |
| Eastern | Chicago Sky | 10-13 | Angel Reese dominating rebounds |
| Western | Minnesota Lynx | 16-7 | Napheesa Collier MVP-level play |
| Western | Las Vegas Aces | 15-8 | A’ja Wilson’s scoring keeping them elite |
| Western | Seattle Storm | 14-9 | Veteran core pushing for playoffs |
| Western | Phoenix Mercury | 12-11 | Diana Taurasi’s farewell tour? |
| Western | Golden State Valkyries | 11-12 | Expansion team exceeding expectations |
| Western | Los Angeles Sparks | 10-14 | Rebuilding with young talent |
| Western | Dallas Wings | 9-15 | Paige Bueckers injecting hope |
These standings reflect the league’s parity—no team is unbeatable, and injuries have flipped scripts mid-season (Basketball-Reference.com). My take: The Liberty look poised to repeat, but don’t sleep on the Lynx’s depth.
Star Players to Watch: Veterans and Rising Talents
This season’s talent pool is stacked, blending Hall of Fame-caliber vets with dynamic young guns. As someone who’s analyzed countless games, here’s who I’m keeping an eye on:
- A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces): The three-time MVP is averaging over 25 points and 10 rebounds—pure dominance. She’s my pick for another MVP if the Aces surge (ESPN).
- Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty): “Stewie” is the heart of the Liberty’s success, with her versatility on both ends. Her leadership has them atop the standings.
- Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever): The sophomore sensation leads the league in assists (around 8.9 per game) and has elevated the Fever into playoff contenders. Her long-range shooting is must-see TV.
- Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx): Leading the league in scoring at 23.0 PPG, she’s carrying the Lynx and could snag MVP honors (WNBA.com).
- Angel Reese (Chicago Sky): The rebound queen (12.5 RPG) is a double-double machine, making the Sky tough in the paint.
Other notables: Sabrina Ionescu’s shooting, Alyssa Thomas’s all-around game, and Diana Taurasi’s veteran savvy in what might be her final run (CBS Sports).
Top Rookies Making Waves in 2025
The 2025 draft class is one for the ages, and these newcomers are already shifting team fortunes. Paige Bueckers went No. 1 to the Dallas Wings and is averaging 17+ points, positioning her as Rookie of the Year favorite. Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen (Washington Mystics) are transition threats, with Citron’s shooting and Iriafen’s athleticism standing out. Janelle Salaün (Golden State Valkyries) is hitting 38% from three and contributing 12 PPG.
In my experience, rookies like these remind me of the 2018 class—they’re ready to contribute Day 1. Watch for Bueckers vs. Clark matchups; they’re the future of the league (Yahoo Sports).
Predictions, Storylines, and What to Expect Next
Midway through, my bold predictions: The Liberty repeat as champs, but the Fever make a deep playoff run behind Clark. MVP race? It’s between Wilson and Collier. Rookie of the Year: Bueckers edges out Citron.
Key storylines:
- Expansion Impact: The Valkyries’ debut has boosted West Coast interest, with more teams (Cleveland, Detroit, Philadelphia) coming by 2030 (ESPN).
- Rookie Revolution: This class is breaking records, from Reese’s rebounds to Bueckers’ scoring.
- CBA and Growth: Players pushing for better pay and charter flights amid soaring popularity.
- Injuries and Comebacks: Teams like the Aces have battled absences but are peaking at the right time.
The second half promises fireworks—playoff races will tighten, and rivalries will intensify (Olympics.com).
How to Watch the 2025 WNBA Season: TV, Streaming, and More
Catching games has never been easier, with national broadcasts expanding. Key networks include ESPN, ABC, CBS, ION, and Prime Video for Thursday nights and the Commissioner’s Cup final. For out-of-market action, WNBA League Pass streams over 200 games—perfect for superfans like me.
Local games vary by team, but apps like ESPN+ and Amazon Prime Video cover most. Upcoming highlights: Check the schedule for Lynx vs. Aces or Fever vs. Liberty. Pro tip: League Pass is worth it for replays and analysis (Sports Media Watch).
Whether you’re a casual viewer or obsessed like I am, the 2025 WNBA season is delivering epic basketball. Stay tuned—the best is yet to come!
