The 2025 WNBA season is set to kick off, and the offseason has been nothing short of transformative. Here’s a detailed look at the 10 key moves that have shaped the league and what they mean for the upcoming season.

Coaching Carousel: A Record Number of Changes

Seven teams entered the offseason with new head coaches, marking the highest percentage of coaching changes in WNBA history. Notable hires include Stephanie White returning to Indiana and Natalie Nakase joining the expansion Golden State Valkyries.

Star Players on the Move

Brittney Griner, Jewell Loyd, and Kelsey Plum, all former No. 1 picks, have found new homes. Griner moved to the Atlanta Dream, Loyd to the Las Vegas Aces, and Plum to the Los Angeles Sparks. These moves are expected to shake up the league’s competitive balance.

Expansion Excitement: Golden State Valkyries

The addition of the Golden State Valkyries as the league’s first expansion team since 2008 brings a new dynamic to the WNBA. Their inaugural season will be closely watched as they build their roster and establish their identity.

Veteran Additions and Retirements

Veterans like DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard have joined new teams, while legends like Diana Taurasi have retired. These changes bring a mix of experience and fresh talent to the league.

Team Rebuilds and Strategic Trades

Teams like the Dallas Wings and Phoenix Mercury have undergone significant roster overhauls. The Wings, led by No. 1 draft pick Paige Bueckers, are looking to the future, while the Mercury aim to compete with their new core of Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally.

Impact on the 2025 Season

These offseason moves will have a profound impact on the 2025 season. Teams like the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx, who had relatively quiet offseasons, will face new challenges from revamped rosters and fresh coaching strategies.

Conclusion

The 2025 WNBA season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with new faces, new teams, and new strategies all vying for the championship. Stay tuned as the action unfolds!