Jay Wood

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The U.S. Women&#8217;s National Team departs for Brazil on Tuesday night with hopes of returning with its sixth straight gold following this year&#8217;s Olympics.
But first, the team held one final practice stateside in Houston after attending the men&#8217;s final exhibition on Monday night.
Take a look at the sights and sounds as coach Geno Auriemma &amp; Co. hit the court:
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MORE: <a href="http://www.wnba.com/usa-2016-schedule/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">USABWNT Schedule</a> | <a href="http://www.wnba.com/news/wnba-players-olympic-rosters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WNBA Players in Rio</a> | <a href="http://www.wnba.com/video/usa-basketball-exhibition-highlights/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Exhibition Highlights </a>
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The final preparation before leaving for Rio! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a> ??⛹?? <a href="https://t.co/aDbClKz3Lq">pic.twitter.com/aDbClKz3Lq</a>
&mdash; USA Basketball (@usabasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/usabasketball/status/760524594973245440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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Coach &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/brittneygriner?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@brittneygriner</a> work in the post before today&#39;s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a> practice in Houston. ??⛹?? <a href="https://t.co/Tl9Nvty8vo">https://t.co/Tl9Nvty8vo</a>
&mdash; USA Basketball (@usabasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/usabasketball/status/760501290367590400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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&quot;Go win the ?!&quot; &#8211; Coach Van Chancellor <a href="https://t.co/xQidXbxayc">pic.twitter.com/xQidXbxayc</a>
&mdash; WNBA (@WNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WNBA/status/760514121750056960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a> <a href="https://t.co/BqZ2HVZW0V">pic.twitter.com/BqZ2HVZW0V</a>
&mdash; WNBA (@WNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WNBA/status/760517302345342976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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Buckets! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a> ??⛹?? <a href="https://t.co/ntIoxHlH87">https://t.co/ntIoxHlH87</a>
&mdash; USA Basketball (@usabasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/usabasketball/status/760516331951226880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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Running hard at the final <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a> practice in Houston! <a href="https://t.co/BBa6LxzdGE">https://t.co/BBa6LxzdGE</a>
&mdash; USA Basketball (@usabasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/usabasketball/status/760518673501151232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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Perfect practices makes perfect! ??⛹?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a> <a href="https://t.co/3vjLSh1WUx">https://t.co/3vjLSh1WUx</a>
&mdash; USA Basketball (@usabasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/usabasketball/status/760521236954963968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo addresses the U.S. Olympic Women&#39;s Basketball Team after practice. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a> <a href="https://t.co/Nr5mdQqdCu">pic.twitter.com/Nr5mdQqdCu</a>
&mdash; USA Basketball (@usabasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/usabasketball/status/760537875142238208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a> <a href="https://t.co/m4BIJ7cems">pic.twitter.com/m4BIJ7cems</a>
&mdash; WNBA (@WNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WNBA/status/760542762923982848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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Visit <a href="https://t.co/Qqov6XgeCc">https://t.co/Qqov6XgeCc</a> for new photos of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USABWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USABWNT</a>! <a href="https://t.co/mOcxXDvSki">pic.twitter.com/mOcxXDvSki</a>
&mdash; WNBA (@WNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WNBA/status/760538420384899072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2016</a></blockquote>
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The WNBA is finally back on our screens. We were treated to some excellent matchups between potential contenders, rookies, and potential frontrunners for the Most Valuable Player award, separating themselves from the pack.  
Let’s dive into the five takeaways from the eight games that kicked off the league’s 29th season.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Napheesa Collier, A’ja Wilson, and Caitlin Clark kick off MVP campaigns </h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-198635" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Takeaway_1.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Takeaway_1.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Takeaway_1-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Takeaway_1-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Las Vegas Aces forward A’ja Wilson unanimously won her third MVP in 2024 after an unbelievable season, averaging 26.9 points per game with 2.6 blocks, 2.3 assists, 1.8 steals, and 11.9 rebounds on over 50 percent shooting from the field. This was done with just a hair over one three-pointer per game taken by Wilson. 
Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier finished second in voting in 2024, and she seems motivated to begin 2025 with a vengeance and with the goal of winning that award in mind. She wrapped up opening weekend, averaging 28.3 points, five rebounds, and 2.5 assists on 56 percent shooting from the field and a 67 percent shooting from three.
Wilson had 31 points, 16 rebounds, three assists, two steals, a block, and shot 50 percent from the field in the Aces’ opening against the New York Liberty this past weekend. Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark picked up a triple-double (20 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists) to help lead the Fever to a win in their season opener. Despite her excellence this past weekend, Collier is still in a heated race for the MVP trophy. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. The Washington Mystics rookies show they’re WNBA-ready. </h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-198634" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Takeaway_3.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Takeaway_3.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Takeaway_3-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Takeaway_3-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
After injuries to rookie guard Georgia Amoore and second-year forward Aaliyah Edwards, rookies Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen stepped up in a big way for Washington. The duo shined for the Mystics in their respective debuts, helping lead the team to a 2-0 record after the opening weekend.
Citron wrapped up the weekend averaging 17 points and 2.5 assists on solid 65 percent shooting from the field and 40 percent from three-point range. Iriafen, a key post player for Washington with Edwards out, averaged 15.5 points and nine rebounds for Washington on over 50 percent shooting from the field. They’ve both completely flipped the Rookie of the Year race on its head in just two games, and it’s fun to see Citron and Iriafen take full advantage of the opportunities due to these unfortunate injuries. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. The new-look Phoenix Mercury embrace their new engine. </h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-198633" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Article_Images-Recovered.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Article_Images-Recovered.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Article_Images-Recovered-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/Article_Images-Recovered-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
The Engine, also known as Alyssa Thomas, has brought her winning ways to Phoenix. Once she opened the Mercury’s game against the Storm with a spin move to the basket for an easy bucket, you knew she was about to have a big performance. Thomas’ efficient 20 points on 8-13 shooting, six assists, two steals, and seven rebounds that led to a win over the Storm should excite Phoenix fans about this team’s ceiling. 
Thomas is the catalyst for any offense she’s running. Her selflessness as a passer and efficiency as a scorer make her the perfect point-forward for Phoenix, who are looking to lean into positionless basketball this year. Whip passes to Satou Sabally and strength to battle in the post are what’ll make this Mercury offense hum. And, while it’s a small sample size, the proof is in the on-off numbers for Thomas. When on the court, Phoenix had an offensive rating of 110.2. Off the court, that rating sank to just 88.9. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. Natasha Cloud finds perfect fit with the New York Liberty</h2>
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When the New York Liberty traded for Natasha Cloud from the Connecticut Sun, it seemed like a match made in heaven. The team would get the opportunity to see how much better their offense could be when removing the ball from Sabrina Ionescu’s hands and bringing in a new playmaker in Cloud.
During the Liberty’s season opener against the Las Vegas Aces, Cloud endeared herself to the New York crowd with a 22-point, nine-assist, three-steal, and two-block performance. She willed the Liberty through a tough stretch in the 3rd quarter where they couldn’t dream of stopping Wilson or Jackie Young on offense, piecing together back-to-back and-1 scoring opportunities early in the 4th quarter that helped to separate New York from Las Vegas. Ring night remained unspoiled thanks to Cloud’s efforts. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. The Kelsey Plum experience arrives in Los Angeles</h2>
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In her first game, Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum made a huge splash to open the Sparks’ regular season. Against the inaugural Golden State Valkyries squad, she had 37 points, six assists, five steals, and two boards on 67 percent shooting from three-point range and 58 percent shooting from the field overall. 
Plum struggled in her second game with the Sparks, being held to 18 points on 33 percent shooting from deep and 36 percent shooting overall by the incomparable defense of Lynx guard Courtney Williams. But, she was the clear leader on the floor in both games, constantly feeding Dearica Hamby, Azurá Stevens, and rookie Sarah Ashlee Barker. 
Once the chemistry is formed between Plum and the Sparks’ elite post scorers in Hamby, Stevens, and Rickea Jackson, Los Angeles’ offense will be in a great spot with her at the head of the snake. 
WNBA reporter Candace Pedraza writes columns on <a href="http://wnba.com/">WNBA.com</a> throughout the season. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the WNBA or its teams.

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5 Takeaways from the WNBA’s 2025 Tip-off Weekend

A dilemma comes with the opening week’s power rankings: How much do you hold onto your preseason expectations for teams vs. how much do you take into account the one (maybe two) games each team has played so far?
With only eight games played across the league, the sample size is too small to make drastic changes. However, a few teams made quite the first impression and climbed a few spots on the rankings ladder below.
<h2>↔️ 1. New York Liberty (1-0)</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-198583 size-full" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/NYL0.png" alt="Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu and Natasha Cloud" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/NYL0.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/NYL0-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/NYL0-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Last Week: 1
This Week: at CHI, at IND
The Liberty opened the week atop the power rankings, then raised their first banner, collected their rings, and defeated the Aces in a clash of the past two WNBA champs in the season opener. That’s a formula to stay atop the rankings this week.
Natasha Cloud stuffed the stat sheet (22 pts, six reb, nine ast, three stl, two blk) in her Liberty debut. She’s one of only four players to ever hit those marks in a game, and the only one to do so in a non-overtime contest.
<h2>↔️ 2. Minnesota Lynx (2-0)</h2>
Last Week: 2
This Week: vs. DAL, vs. CON
In this year’s WNBA GM Survey, the Lynx were tabbed as the title favorites, with Napheesa Collier as the favorite to win her first MVP. The season’s opening weekend only bolstered those thoughts as the Lynx posted double-digit wins over the Wings (+15) and the Sparks (+14), with Collier scoring 34 and 23 points, respectively, to lead the way.
<h2>↔️ 3. Las Vegas Aces (0-1)</h2>
Last Week: 3
This Week: at CON, vs. WAS, at SEA
Here’s my first example of not overreacting to a single game. Yes, the Aces dropped their season opener to the Liberty, the same team that ended their 2024 season in the semifinals, but one loss does not shake my faith in A’ja Wilson (31 pts, 16 reb) and the Aces. Jewell Loyd (5 pts, 2-10 FG) had a tough debut as she, Chelsa Gray, and Jackie Young combined to shoot just 26.2% in the opener. I anticipate that trio bouncing back quickly.
<h2>⬆️ 4. Indiana Fever (1-0)</h2>
Last Week: 5
This Week: vs. ATL at ATL, vs. NYL
Caitlin Clark opened her second WNBA season by dropping her third career triple-double (20 pts, 10 reb, 10 ast, career-high four blk) as she and Aliyah Boston (19 pts, 13 reb, five blk) led the Fever past the Sky. Simultaneously, DeWanna Bonner climbed to 3rd on the WNBA all-time scoring list (7,489) in her Fever debut.
<h2>⬆️ 5. Phoenix Mercury (1-0)</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-198586" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/PHX5-1.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/PHX5-1.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/PHX5-1-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/PHX5-1-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Last Week: 6
This Week: vs. LAS, at SEA, vs. WAS
The new-look Mercury, with eight players making their Phoenix debut on Saturday, never trailed as they defeated the Storm behind a combined 47 points from marquee offseason additions Satou Sabally (27 pts, six reb, three 3pm, two blk) and Alyssa Thomas (20 pts, seven reb, six ast, two stl).
The question is whether the Mercury can keep this going without last year’s leading scorer, Kahleah Copper (21.1 ppg, 3rd in WNBA), who is expected to miss 4-6 weeks following knee surgery.
<h2>⬇️ 6. Seattle Storm (0-1)</h2>
Last Week: 4
This Week: at DAL, vs. PHX, vs. LVA
Like the Aces, a season-opening loss doesn’t completely shake my belief in Seattle. With a veteran core of Skylar Diggins, Nneka Ogwumike, Alysha Clark, and Erica Wheeler, this team is built to win now while keeping an eye on the future after adding 19-year-old French center Dominique Malonga with the No. 2 pick in the draft.
However, the Storm struggled to score in their season opener, putting up just 59 points. Gabby Williams and Ezi Magbegor each shot 1-of-9 overall, and the team shot just 3-of-17 from 3-point range. Those marks must improve moving forward.
<h2>⬆️ 7. Los Angeles Sparks (1-1)</h2>
Last Week: 10
This Week: at PHX, vs. GSV, vs. CHI
The Sparks opened the season by spoiling the franchise debut of the Golden State Valkyries in historic fashion, with Kelsey Plum setting the WNBA record for points in a season opener with 37 in her Sparks debut. Plum followed that performance with 18 points and five dimes in Sunday’s loss to the Lynx, which saw Dearica Hamby and Azurá Stevens combine for 41 points. 
<h2>⬆️ 8. Washington Mystics (2-0)</h2>
Last Week: 11
This Week: at GSV, at LVA, at PHX
In 2024, the Mystics opened the season with 12 straight losses. In 2025, they opened with two straight wins. Veteran guard Brittney Sykes (24.5 ppg, 6.0 apg) and 2025 first round draft picks Sonia Citron (17.0 ppg, 64.7% FG) and Kiki Iriafen (15.5 ppg, 9.0 rpg) led the way in close wins over Atlanta (+4) and Connecticut (+5) to open the season. For a team focused on building for the future, the start of the 2025 campaign is promising.
<h2>⬇️ 9. Atlanta Dream (0-1)</h2>
Last Week: 7
This Week: at IND, vs. IND, vs. DAL, vs. CON
Despite the season-opening loss to the Mystics, the Dream have positives to build upon. The new frontline of Brittney Griner (18 pts, eight reb) and Brionna Jones (16 pts, 10 reb, five ast) should be formidable. Plus, Allisha Gray (25 pts, eight reb, seven ast, six 3pm) dropped a stat line only matched by two players ever. They’ll need to get Rhyne Howard going (11 pts on 4-of-14 FG in the opener) and hopefully get Jordin Canada (knee) back soon.
<h2>⬇️ 10. Dallas Wings (0-1)</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-198588" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DAL10.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DAL10.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DAL10-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DAL10-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Last Week: 9
This Week: vs. SEA, at MIN, at ATL
No. 1 pick Paige Bueckers scored Dallas’ first points of the season – putting back her own miss on a drive into the paint – but her WNBA debut (10 pts, seven reb, two ast) was spoiled by the Lynx. Arike Ogunbowale opened her seventh season with a team-high 16 points, while DiJonai Carrington had 15 in her Wings debut. With a new GM, new coach, and new point guard, this squad may take time to jell.
<h2>⬇️ 11. Chicago Sky (0-1)</h2>
Last Week: 8
This Week: vs. NYL, at LAS
The Sky scored 17 points in the first quarter of their season opener, and it was their highest-scoring frame of the game as they put up just 58 points in a loss to the Fever. Chicago was the second-lowest scoring team last season (77.4 ppg) and must generate more offense this year. Angel Reese (12 pts, 17 reb) led the Sky in both categories in the first game of her second season, but she’ll need more help moving forward.
<h2>↔️ 12. Connecticut Sun (0-1)</h2>
Last Week: 12
This Week: vs. LVA, at MIN, at ATL
The new-look Sun led most of the game in their debut against the Mystics, but Washington took control late to earn the win. Tina Charles (23 pts, 10 reb) played her first game as a Sun since 2013 and dropped a familiar 20/10 game – her 38th as a member of the Sun and the 102nd of her WNBA career. Charles and the Sun will be tested this week, facing two of the top three teams in this week’s rankings.
<h2>↔️ 13. Golden State Valkyries (0-1)</h2>
Last Week: 13
This Week: vs. WAS, at LAS
The Valkyries may have lost their season opener to the Sparks, but Friday night, in a sold-out Chase Center decked out in Valkyries purple, will long be remembered as a victory in bringing WNBA hoops to the Bay Area.
Kayla Thornton scored the first bucket in Valkyries history, while Tiffany Hayes led the home team with 19 points as Golden State kept the game close until Kelsey Plum and L.A. pulled away in the second half. The Valkyries have two chances to earn their first win this week when they host the Mystics on Wednesday and visit the Sparks on Friday.
Longtime WNBA reporter Brian Martin writes articles on WNBA.com throughout the season. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the WNBA or its clubs.

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2025 WNBA Power Rankings: Week 0

With the 2025 WNBA season set to begin on Friday, excitement and interest from a betting perspective have never been higher at the BetMGM <a href="https://sports.betmgm.com/en/sports">online sportsbook</a>.
After a record-setting season in 2024 as the most bet WNBA campaign at BetMGM, bettors have returned by wagering on the futures markets this preseason. Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever have certainly had something to do with that.
In the <a href="https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/wnba/wnba-championship-odds-bm23/">WNBA championship odds</a> market, the Fever have gone from +2500 to +300 and currently hold roughly 80% of the handle. Only the New York Liberty (+225) and Las Vegas Aces (+275) have better odds to win the title.
Clark enters the year as the betting favorite (+195) to win the MVP award, giving her an implied probability of 33.9% in her second season. More than half (52.7%) of the tickets are on Clark to win the award over A’ja Wilson (+200) and Napheesa Collier (+250).
“Our futures have definitely been influenced by the popularity of the Fever/Clark,” BetMGM trader Hannah Luther said. “Contrary to last season, we think the Fever have a legitimate chance at the title. So, we are taking a bit more proactive action to mitigate our liabilities on them.”
“Clark&#8217;s odds to win MVP have also been influenced by public interest, but not nearly as much as the Fever outright,” Luther added. “We opened with her at pretty short odds, knowing she is one of the strongest players in the league.
Thanks to the increased betting interest from Clark and the Fever, BetMGM has offered more futures markets entering the 2025 season.
Indiana’s Stephanie White is a +100 favorite to win Coach of the Year in 2025, having received a majority of the money in the market. Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers is a heavy favorite (-375) to win Rookie of the Year, but she’s still received the most bets.
Wilson is a +125 favorite to win her third Defensive Player of the Year trophy over Collier (+250), who claimed last year’s DPOY. Washington Mystics forward Aaliyah Edwards is the front-runner in the Most Improved Player market at +600. Still, Seattle Storm forward Gabby Williams (+700) has become the most significant liability due to sharp betting interest.
In the Sixth Player of the Year market, Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes begins as a favorite (+300) to repeat. But bettors are backing Dallas Wings forward Maddy Siegrist, who has +800 odds to win the award in her third season.
“Awards markets can be complex to price up,” Luther said. “Trades, draft picks, coaching changes, and sharp action all affect our odds. Betting on DPOY, 6POY, and MIP has been more varied, and those markets have attracted more sharp bets.”
In addition to all the award markets, BetMGM has stat leader markets, season-long player props, win totals, playoff odds, and game odds for the opening weekend of the 2025 season.
There is plenty for bettors to sink their teeth into before games get underway.
Visit the BetMGM sportsbook throughout the season for updated WNBA futures, including <a href="https://sports.betmgm.com/en/sports/basketball-7/betting/usa-9/wnba-402">WNBA Finals odds</a>. You can also view updated <a href="https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/latest-sports-betting-promotions-offers-betmgm-2/">sportsbook promos</a>, including a First Bet Offer for eligible new customers.

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Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever Pave Way for Increased WNBA Betting Interest

<div style="width: 640px;" class="wp-video">
<video class="wp-video-shortcode" id="video-198465-1" width="640" height="360" preload="metadata" controls="controls"><source type="video/mp4" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/2025_WNBA_Points_of_Education_VIdeo.mp4?_=1" /><a href="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/2025_WNBA_Points_of_Education_VIdeo.mp4">https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/2025_WNBA_Points_of_Education_VIdeo.mp4</a></video></div>

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WNBA Points of Education

<h3>1. Stephanie White Returns to Indiana</h3>
The Indiana Fever hired Stephanie White as their new head coach. White, a former player and coach for the Fever, returns after a successful stint with the Connecticut Sun, where she was named WNBA Coach of the Year in 2023. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/indiana-fever-hire-stephanie-white-as-head-coach">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>2. Tyler Marsh Heads to Chicago</h3>
The Chicago Sky announced Tyler Marsh as their new head coach. Marsh played a pivotal role in the Las Vegas Aces&#8217; back-to-back WNBA Championships in 2022 and 2023 and brings a wealth of experience to the team. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/chicago-sky-name-tyler-marsh-as-head-coach">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>3. Curt Miller Joins Dallas’ Front Office</h3>
The Dallas Wings appointed Curt Miller as their new Executive Vice President and General Manager. The two-time WNBA Coach of the Year brings a wealth of experience from his stints with the Los Angeles Sparks and Connecticut Sun. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/dallas-wings-name-curt-miller-evp-general-manager">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>4. Karl Smesko Takes the Helm in ATL</h3>
The Atlanta Dream named Karl Smesko as their new Head Coach. Smesko, renowned for his .843 winning percentage in NCAA Division I women&#8217;s basketball, brings over two decades of coaching experience to the Dream. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/atlanta-dream-hire-karl-smesko-as-head-coach">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>5. Wings Win Lottery for First Time Ever</h3>
<div id="attachment_198431" style="width: 970px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-198431" class="size-full wp-image-198431" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DALLottery.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DALLottery.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DALLottery-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DALLottery-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />(Pictured form left to right) At the 2024 WNBA Draft Lottery, Maddy Siegrist representing the Dallas Wings, Rickea Jackson representing the Los Angeles Sparks, Head of League Ops, Bethany Donaphin, Aaliyah Edwards representing the Washington Mystics, and Angel Reese representing the Chicago Sky</div>
The Dallas Wings won the 2025 WNBA Draft Lottery presented by State Farm® for the first time in franchise history, securing the first overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. The Wings entered the lottery tied with the Chicago Sky for the second-highest chances at the top pick, behind the Los Angeles Sparks. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/2025-wnba-draft-lottery-results">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>6. Lynne Roberts Takes Charge</h3>
The Los Angeles Sparks appointed Lynne Roberts as their new Head Coach. Roberts brings 27 seasons of collegiate coaching experience, including a successful tenure at the University of Utah, to Los Angeles. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/los-angeles-sparks-name-lynne-roberts-head-coach">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>7. Rachid Meziane Joins Connecticut</h3>
The Connecticut Sun named Rachid Meziane as their new head coach. Meziane has a stellar track record in French and Belgian women&#8217;s basketball and is set to bring his extensive experience and passion to the league. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/rachid-meziane-named-connecticut-sun-head-coach">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>8. Coming Soon: The Toronto Tempo</h3>
Canada&#8217;s first WNBA team has officially been named the Toronto Tempo, reflecting the rhythm and pace of both the city and basketball. The Tempo will begin playing at Toronto&#8217;s Coca-Cola Coliseum in 2026. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/meet-the-toronto-tempo">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>9. Golden State Valkyries Break Ground</h3>
The Golden State Valkyries unveiled their inaugural 2025 season uniforms and began building their inaugural roster through the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft. Highlighted picks include Kate Martin, Stephanie Talbot, Kayla Thornton, and Cecilia Zandalasini (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/golden-state-valkyries-expansion-draft-results">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>10. New Leadership in DC</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-198432" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/WASCoach.png" alt="Kiki Iriafen and Head Coach Sydney Johnson" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/WASCoach.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/WASCoach-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/WASCoach-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
The Washington Mystics announced Jamila Wideman as their new General Manager and Sydney Johnson as Head Coach. Wideman is a former WNBA player and NBA executive. Johnson completed head coaching roles at Princeton and Fairfield, leading Princeton to an Ivy League title and an NCAA tournament appearance. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/washington-mystics-announce-new-leadership">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>11. Chris Koclanes Takes Over in Dallas</h3>
The Dallas Wings appointed Chris Koclanes as their new head coach. Koclanes brings over a decade of coaching experience in the WNBA and college basketball. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/dallas-wings-name-chris-koclanes-head-coach">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>12. Huskies Retire Plum’s #10</h3>
The University of Washington retired Kelsey Plum&#8217;s #10 jersey, honoring her as the first women&#8217;s basketball player in UW history to receive this distinction. Plum shattered NCAA scoring records during her time with the Huskies. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/kelsey-plum-college-jersey-retirement-ceremony-gallery">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>13. Griner Leaves Phoenix, Joins ATL</h3>
After 11 years in Phoenix, Brittney Griner departed to join the Atlanta Dream. The Dream made a historic free agency addition by acquiring the 2013 No. 1 overall pick, ten-time All-Star, and three-time Olympic Gold Medalist. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/atlanta-dream-acquire-brittney-griner">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>14. Las Vegas and Los Angeles Complete Historic Trade</h3>
In a historic three-team trade, the Las Vegas Aces acquired 2x WNBA champion Jewell Loyd, while the Los Angeles Sparks welcomed 2x champion Kelsey Plum. This blockbuster deal marked the first trade in league history involving multiple No. 1 overall picks. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/las-vegas-aces-acquire-jewell-loyd">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>15. A’ja in the Rafters in South Carolina</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-198433" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/AjaCremony.png" alt="A'ja Wilson's number 22 hangs in Colonial Life Arena at the University of South Carolina" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/AjaCremony.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/AjaCremony-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/AjaCremony-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
The University of South Carolina retired A&#8217;ja Wilson&#8217;s No. 22 jersey. Wilson, a four-time All-American and three-time WNBA MVP, led the Gamecocks to their first NCAA National Championship in 2017. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/aja-wilson-college-jersey-retirement-ceremony-gallery">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>16. Clark’s Jersey Retired at Iowa</h3>
After Caitlin Clark shattered NCAA scoring records and earned multiple Player of the Year awards, the University of Iowa honored the 2024 Rookie of the Year by retiring her No. 22 jersey. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/caitlin-clark-college-jersey-retirement-ceremony-gallery">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>17. Wings Land Carrington, Harris, Smith</h3>
The Dallas Wings completed a four-team trade with the Connecticut Sun, Dallas Wings, and Indiana Fever, acquiring DiJonai Carrington, Tyasha Harris, and NaLyssa Smith. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/dallas-wings-acquire-carrington-harris-smith-herbert-harrigan">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>18. Sabally and Thomas to Phoenix</h3>
In a four-team trade with the Dallas Wings, Indiana Fever, and Connecticut Sun, the Phoenix Mercury acquired All-WNBA First Team forwards Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/phoenix-mercury-acquire-thomas-sabally">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>19. Bonner and White Reunite in Indy</h3>
The Indiana Fever signed six-time WNBA All-Star and two-time champion DeWanna Bonner. Bonner, who ranks fourth all-time in WNBA scoring, will rejoin Head Coach Stephanie White in Indiana. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/indiana-fever-acquire-dewanna-bonner">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>20. White Mamba Out</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-198434" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DTRetirement.png" alt="Diana Taurasi walks through a crowd of fans ahead of her retirement press conference" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DTRetirement.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DTRetirement-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/DTRetirement-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
3x WNBA Champion and 6x Olympic Gold medalist Diana Taurasi announced her retirement after a historic 20-year career with the Phoenix Mercury. Taurasi became the league’s all-time leading scorer in 2023. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/diana-taurasi-top-20-moments-photo-gallery">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>21. From Phoenix, to Connecticut, to New York</h3>
The New York Liberty acquired 2019 WNBA Champion Natasha Cloud from the Connecticut Sun in exchange for the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and a 2026 first-round pick. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/new-york-liberty-acquire-natasha-cloud">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>22. CP3 Joins the LA Rafters</h3>
The Los Angeles Sparks announced they will retire Candace Parker’s No. 3 jersey on June 29 at Crypto.com Arena. The 3x WNBA Champion, 2x MVP and 7x All-Star will become just the third Spark to receive this honor, joining Lisa Leslie and Penny Toler. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/los-angeles-sparks-candace-parker-jersey-retirement">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>23. Delle Donne Bids Farewell to Basketball, Embraces New Role</h3>
After 11 seasons, 2x WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne announced her retirement from the WNBA. Delle Donne, who led the Washington Mystics to their first championship in 2019, will serve as a special advisor to Monumental Basketball. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/elena-delle-donne-announces-retirement">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>24. Bird, Fowles, and Moore Highlight Hoop Hall Class of 2025</h3>
4x WNBA champion and 13x All-Star Sue Bird, 2x WNBA champion and 2017 MVP Sylvia Fowles, and 4x WNBA champion and 2014 MVP Maya Moore have been selected for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/bird-fowles-moore-2025-hof">Go deeper</a>)
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<h3>25. Bueckers Wins Natty, Heads to Dallas</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-198435" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/PaigeNo1.png" alt="Paige Bueckers poses with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert after being selected No. 1 in the 2025 WNBA Draft" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/PaigeNo1.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/PaigeNo1-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/05/PaigeNo1-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Paige Bueckers was selected No. 1 by the Dallas Wings in the 2025 WNBA Draft. A week prior, the UConn guard led the Huskies to their 12th NCAA Championship, becoming the first player to win an NCAA Championship and be selected No. 1 overall since Breanna Stewart in 2016. (<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/draft-25-draft-night-photo-gallery">Go deeper</a>)

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2025 WNBA Offseason: 25 Things That Happened

NEW YORK, May 15, 2025 – The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) today launched “No Space for Hate,” a multi-dimensional platform designed to combat hate and promote respect across all WNBA spaces — from online discourse to in-arena behavior. Brought to life by a Task Force comprised of league and team representatives, and with support from the Women’s National Basketball Players Association, the WNBA has taken a comprehensive approach focused on four key areas: enhanced technological features to detect hateful comments online; increased emphasis on team, arena, and league security measures; reinforcing mental health resources; and alignment of core against hate.
“As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and influence, we’re proud to launch ‘No Space for Hate’ — a league-wide initiative to better protect players, preserve the spirit of the game, and affirm the values of our league. We believe that basketball can be a unifying force — a place where people from all walks of life come together not just to watch a game, but to connect,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “We want our arenas, and our social platforms filled with energy and fandom — not hate and vitriol. That means turning our values into action: strengthening digital and physical security, expanding access to mental health resources, and unifying our message across the league. It’s our responsibility to protect what makes this sport so special and ensure we continue to inspire the next generation of women’s basketball fans.”
Highlighting the purpose of “No Space for Hate,” the league will roll out unified messaging across all teams through in-arena public service announcements, on-court floor graphics, pre-game warm-up shirts, and social media content.
As part of the comprehensive plan, the WNBA is rolling out an AI-powered technology solution to monitor social media activity, in partnership with players and teams, to help protect the community from online hate speech and harassment. The league will also be enforcing a newly enhanced and more accessible Fan Code of Conduct, which will be
made available on WNBA.com, the WNBA app, and WNBA social channels. In addition, the WNBA is reaffirming its commitment to mental health by highlighting available resources for players, their families, and both team and league staff. All teams and the league will also place increased emphasis on security measures at the team level, within arenas, and across the league as a whole.
The “No Space for Hate” platform reflects the WNBA’s unwavering commitment to protecting its players and upholding the values of inclusion, respect, and unity. As the league continues to lead with purpose both on and off the court, this effort stands as a powerful reminder that there is no space for hate in the game.
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