Las Vegas Aces, 2025 WNBA Champions: A Look at the 2026 Season
The Las Vegas Aces were crowned WNBA champions in 2025, after sweeping the Phoenix Mercury in the Finals. This victory represents the franchise’s third title in the last four years, marking the beginning of an offseason that promises to be the most eventful in league history. The league is preparing for a period of significant changes, including the negotiation of a new collective bargaining agreement, expansion drafts for two new franchises, and the draft lottery. Added to this is a massive free agency involving almost all players who are not under rookie contracts. The uncertainty regarding team rosters is greater than ever, but that doesn’t stop Alofoke Deportes from offering an early projection of what the 2026 season could be. Given the situation of the expansion teams, Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, which still do not have coaches or players, they will not be included in this analysis. Below, we present the overview of the other 13 teams.1. Las Vegas Aces
2025: 30-14, WNBA Champions The Aces demonstrated their dominance, going from a 50% record at the beginning of August to being the second seed in the playoffs, and finally, dominating the Finals. A’ja Wilson, who earned her fourth MVP award, continues to show a great level at 29 years old. With Wilson, Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, and coach Becky Hammon, the Aces are shaping up as title contenders next season.2. Phoenix Mercury
2025: 27-17, WNBA Runners-up It was a great season for the Mercury, who were renewed after the retirement of Diana Taurasi and the departure of Brittney Griner. Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally found a new home in Phoenix and seem willing to stay and build on what was achieved this year, under the direction of coach Nate Tibbetts. Despite not winning the championship, reaching the Finals, after defeating New York and Minnesota, was a success for the organization.3. Atlanta Dream
2025: 30-14, Eliminated in first round The Dream had a successful regular season, but their performance in the playoffs did not meet expectations. Despite the loss, there were positive aspects in 2025: a franchise record of 30 wins, outstanding seasons for Allisha Gray and Naz Hillmon, and a successful transition to coach Karl Smesko. The main unknown is whether the Dream will be able to keep their core of players together.4. Minnesota Lynx
2025: 34-10, Eliminated in semifinals Minnesota was the favorite for the championship for much of the season, but the playoffs didn’t go as they hoped. DiJonai Carrington and Napheesa Collier’s injuries affected the team. If the Lynx manage to keep their core and add a high draft pick, they could be contenders again for the title.5. Indiana Fever
2025: 24-20, Eliminated in the semifinals The Fever’s season was characterized by its resilience in the face of injuries. Despite the absence of Caitlin Clark, the team reached the semifinals. The Fever hopes to have Kelsey Mitchell, who has spent her entire career in Indiana, to continue advancing.
6. New York Liberty
2025: 27-17, Eliminated in the first round
The Liberty, after winning their first playoff game, lost at home and saw how the series and coach Sandy Brondello’s tenure in New York ended with a loss in Phoenix. The franchise will seek a new direction with a new coach.7. Golden State Valkyries
2025: 23-21, Eliminated in the first round Despite being swept by Minnesota, making the playoffs was a great achievement for this first-year franchise. The team was well-received by its fans, and Natalie Nakase was named WNBA Coach of the Year.8. Los Angeles Sparks
2025: 21-23, Did not qualify for playoffs
Kelsey Plum’s incorporation was positive for the Sparks, who improved their performance. The team’s core is expected to remain together under the direction of coach Lynne Roberts.
