Previewing the 2025 WNBA Season: Top Contenders Beyond the Champions NY Liberty

By Staff Writer | Editorial credit: zimmytws / shutterstock.com 

As the 2025 WNBA season tips off, the reigning champions, the New York Liberty, stand poised to defend their title. However, several formidable teams are eager to dethrone them. Let’s delve into the top five contenders aiming to challenge the Liberty’s supremacy.

New York Liberty: The Team to Beat

Fresh off their inaugural championship, the Liberty have retained their core trio: Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Sabrina Ionescu. The addition of veteran guard Natasha Cloud bolsters their perimeter defense and playmaking capabilities. Despite the loss of Betnijah Laney-Hamilton to injury, the Liberty’s depth and experience make them the favorites to repeat.

1. Minnesota Lynx: Redemption in Sight

After a narrow loss in the 2024 Finals, the Lynx return with renewed vigor. MVP frontrunner Napheesa Collier leads a cohesive unit that includes Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams. With their entire starting lineup returning, the Lynx are determined to capture their fifth championship.

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2. Las Vegas Aces: Reloaded and Ready

The Aces, champions in 2022 and 2023, have retooled their roster by acquiring Jewell Loyd, a dynamic scorer and two-time WNBA champion. While they bid farewell to Kelsey Plum, the presence of A’ja Wilson, the reigning MVP, ensures that the Aces remain a formidable force.

3. Indiana Fever: The Caitlin Clark Era

The Fever’s resurgence is spearheaded by Caitlin Clark, who led the league in assists as a rookie. Under new head coach Stephanie White, and with veteran additions like DeWanna Bonner, the Fever are poised for a deep playoff run.

4. Seattle Storm: A New Chapter

The Storm have embraced a new era, trading away Jewell Loyd and keeping veterans Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins. With the addition of No. 2 overall pick Dominique Malonga, the Storm blend experience with youth, aiming to reestablish themselves as title contenders.

5. Phoenix Mercury: Rising from the Ashes

The Mercury have undergone significant changes, acquiring Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally to join forces with Kahleah Copper. While chemistry and depth remain concerns, the talent on this roster cannot be overlooked.

Outlook for the 2025 Season

The Liberty’s path to a repeat championship is fraught with challenges. The Lynx seek redemption, the Aces have reloaded, the Fever are on the rise, and the Storm and Mercury have revamped their rosters. As the season unfolds, fans can anticipate a thrilling battle for supremacy in the WNBA.