Surprises and Disappointments in the 2025 WNBA Season
The 2025 WNBA season continues to surprise everyone. From expansion teams exceeding expectations to dynasties struggling to stay afloat, this campaign has defied pre-established narratives, making it one of the most intriguing to date. We analyze the biggest surprises and disappointments of the season, and we envision what the future might hold for each case.Biggest Surprises
The Golden State Valkyries’ Success: Few anticipated the immediate impact of the Golden State Valkyries, the expansion team. After the WNBA didn’t add new teams since 2008, the Valkyries have exceeded expectations. With a promising initial record, the team has demonstrated remarkable performance, driven by the performance of key players. Despite Kayla Thornton’s injury, the team, led by players like Veronica Burton, Temi Fagbenle, and Monique Billings, continues to fight for a playoff spot. Projections suggest that Golden State could far exceed its preseason win total.Rookie Guards Standout: Contrary to popular belief about the adaptation time of rookie guards, this year’s class has shown an immediate impact. Paige Bueckers and Sonia Citron are competing for the Rookie of the Year award, defying expectations and demonstrating exceptional talent. If Bueckers wins the award, it would be the first time guards have won the recognition in consecutive seasons since 2007, marking a change in the perception of rookie performance.Dream Season for the Dream: After years of difficulties, the Atlanta Dream has resurfaced. With the arrival of Karl Smesko as coach and the addition of key players like Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner, the team has shown significant improvement. The Dream ranks third in net and offensive efficiency, exceeding expectations and demonstrating the impact of new additions and the performance of players like Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard. Despite Howard’s injury, the Dream seeks to secure a playoff spot.Players Who Have Made a Leap in Quality: Azura Stevens and Gabby Williams have transformed their game, demonstrating notable growth in their performance. Both players, who were selected in the top six of the 2018 draft, have significantly improved their statistics, becoming key pieces for their teams. This increase in performance has positioned Stevens and Williams among the league’s most valuable players, marking a before and after in their careers.The Biggest Disappointments
The Clark-Reese Rivalry, Absent: The rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese was expected to dominate the season, but it hasn’t. Despite the initial interest, the rivalry hasn’t taken off as expected, with both players facing difficulties in their performance.
Clark has had problems with injuries and poor shooting performance, while Reese has struggled with efficiency. The lack of direct matchups and the poor performance of both players have detracted from the expected excitement of the rivalry.The Aces No Longer Seem Like a Dynasty: After winning the championship in 2023, the Aces have shown a performance below expectations. Despite the good performance of A’ja Wilson, the team has regressed on both sides of the court. The decrease in offensive and defensive efficiency has affected their overall performance. With the team’s depth diminished, the Aces could struggle to maintain their dominance.CBA Negotiations in Progress: The focus has shifted to the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations. Tensions between the WNBPA and the league have increased, which could affect the development of the season. Discussions about league revenue and player compensation remain a crucial topic. The coming months will be decisive for the future of the WNBA.
