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Interest in the WNBA is soaring, even among those who typically shy away from sports. This growing fascination can be attributed to standout athletes like Napheesa Collier, Sabrina Ionescu, Caitlin Clark, and Angel Reese, alongside emerging college talent such as Flau’jae Johnson and Paige Bueckers. Their remarkable performances, record-breaking achievements, and captivating pre-game presentations have injected a new level of excitement into the game.
As the 2025 season is set to begin on May 16, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding the league. In 2024, attendance numbers rose by 14% compared to 2023, with franchises like the New York Liberty and Indiana Fever frequently drawing crowds of over 17,000 fans per game. Early-season matchups on ESPN saw an average viewership of 1.43 million, marking an impressive 181% increase from the previous year, and this trend is expected to continue into the new season.
For those new to women’s basketball or fans looking to deepen their understanding, this guide serves as an essential resource. Here, passionate supporters and analysts share crucial insights on what to watch for in the 2025 WNBA season, including player predictions and newly drafted talent.
Paige Bueckers: A Rising Star
Even casual observers of the WNBA are aware of the newest crop of rookie talent, especially Paige Bueckers. Drafted first overall by the Dallas Wings after leading UConn to a National Championship, she is widely regarded as a player to watch.
“Her basketball IQ is exceptional, and she has the ability to score from anywhere on the court. Many are stating that Paige is the most NBA-ready guard since Diana Taurasi, who recently retired. There’s an exciting buzz surrounding her potential,” remarked Linda Martindale, a performance coach.
Exciting Matchup: Bueckers vs. Clark
On June 27, Bueckers will face off against Caitlin Clark, last year’s record-setting rookie now with the Indiana Fever, in what promises to be an exciting game on Bueckers’ home turf. The event has already prompted a venue change to accommodate the anticipated large crowd.
“Their previous encounter in the Final Four saw Caitlin as the victor. It will be intriguing to see if Paige can avenge that loss. I love the competitive spirit between them and I’m eager to see if Paige can replicate Caitlin’s impressive rookie success,” said Vanessa, a WNBA enthusiast on TikTok @vanessaflo.
Tickets Selling Quickly
Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars and grab tickets swiftly, especially for the anticipated matchups between Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky and Clark. Their first encounter will take place on May 17 in Chicago, with additional matchups scheduled in June.
“They will meet five times during the season, and the WNBA anticipates sell-out crowds for each game,” stated L.M..
Roster Changes and Team Dynamics
This offseason saw a flurry of activity as teams shuffled players, with notable moves such as Tasha Cloud transitioning from the Connecticut Sun to the New York Liberty. The emergence of new leagues like Unrivaled, which features 3-on-3 games, adds to the shifting landscape.
“I’m particularly curious to see how this year’s draft class compares to last year’s. The previous class energized the WNBA and cultivated a strong culture and fandom. Some discrepancies in eligibility have led to a unique situation with this year’s draft,” noted Ellen Hyslop, co-founder of The Gist, a sports newsletter and podcast host.
Growing Brand Collaborations
Beyond the court, players are increasingly securing lucrative brand partnerships, essentially positioning themselves as brand ambassadors. Clark’s notable deal with Nike, alongside Reese’s collaborations with Hershey’s and Reebok, illustrates this trend. Furthermore, Bueckers has secured endorsement contracts with major brands such as Nike, Bose, Gatorade, and Ally Financial.
“Brands previously adopted a generic approach towards women’s sports, but there’s a shift towards tailoring partnerships to meet the preferences of female sports fans,” remarked Aliyah Funschelle, a women’s sports journalist.
A New Chapter for the Valkyries
The introduction of the Golden State Valkyries marks a significant addition to the WNBA, bringing the total to 13 teams—the first new franchise in 15 years. The team drafted Lithuanian guard Justė Jocytė, who brings extensive experience from Europe, along with seasoned players like Tiffany Hayes.
“I’m eager to see how the Valkyries perform. They have assembled a promising roster featuring both experienced players and newcomers. The community’s enthusiasm for basketball, fueled by the success of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, will be a great asset as they begin their journey,” shared L.M..
The Liberty’s Championship Aspirations
After achieving back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023, the Las Vegas Aces faced elimination in the 2024 WNBA semifinals against the New York Liberty.
“The Aces are seeking redemption and will come out strong. The Liberty, armed with talents like Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones, are favorites to contend for the title once more. Additionally, keep an eye on Leonie Fiebich, a promising forward. The Liberty is blessed with a mix of talent and chemistry that could lead them back to the championship,” commented L.M..
Cameron Brink’s Return
Star forward Cameron Brink faced a setback with an ACL injury that ended her rookie season with the Los Angeles Sparks prematurely.
“Her impressive college career at Stanford and being the second pick in the 2024 Draft set high expectations. With dedicated rehabilitation support from Susan and Curtis Borchardt at The Athlete Blueprint, she’s expected to return to peak condition in June, and fans are eager to see her back on the court,” remarked L.M..
Building Relationships Beyond the Court
In contrast to previous eras, the current generation of professional athletes has cultivated a more intimate relationship with their fanbase through social media and personal platforms.
“Recent draft classes are not only showcasing talent on the court but are also developing as influencers and brands off the court. Fans now feel more connected to players like Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson, who share their lives through podcasts and digital content. This personal connection enhances the excitement of attending their games, making the experience all the more engaging,” said E.H..
These interviews have been edited and condensed for clarity.
Source
www.bustle.com