Introduction

The 2025 WNBA season brings excitement, fresh talent, and dramatic roster changes. If you’re eager to follow every twist and turn, let’s explore how the current landscape of WNBA teams shapes up this year. From the addition of a new franchise to historic rivalries and bold predictions, women’s professional basketball is more compelling than ever.

The 2025 WNBA Teams at a Glance

This season features 13 WNBA teams, including the debut of the Golden State Valkyries. Traditional powerhouses like the New York Liberty, Las Vegas Aces, and Minnesota Lynx return, but they’re facing stiff competition as rosters evolve and star players change teams. The Liberty, fresh off their first championship, will try to repeat, while the Lynx have revenge on their minds after a contested Finals loss. Meanwhile, the Dallas Wings land rookie sensation Paige Bueckers, and fan favorites like the Indiana Fever continue to rise thanks to young stars such as Caitlin Clark.

What’s New? Expansion, Trades, and Dramatic Shifts

This season is marked by significant change. New WNBA teams don’t arrive every year, but the Golden State Valkyries have entered the fray. Expansion always brings intrigue, and as Defector’s 2025 WNBA Season Preview notes, expectations for first-year teams should remain measured. Historically, newcomers face steep learning curves, but the Valkyries have assembled a dynamic, international roster aiming to build chemistry fast.

Across the league, blockbuster trades and retirements reshape the field. Diana Taurasi’s storied career is over, while Brittney Griner heads to Atlanta and Alyssa Thomas finds a new home in Phoenix. These moves signal a changing of the guard, giving several WNBA teams a new identity this year.

Standout Teams and Players to Watch

Certain franchises are already generating buzz. The New York Liberty, last year’s champions, bring back much of their defensive might, but also face depth challenges due to injuries and offseason moves. The Minnesota Lynx, narrowly denied the title, are hungry for redemption and boast impressive continuity.

In the West, the Las Vegas Aces shake things up by trading Kelsey Plum for Jewell Loyd, hoping the change strengthens both their defense and lineup flexibility. The Dallas Wings, now home to Paige Bueckers, partner her sharpshooting with Arike Ogunbowale’s offensive prowess. This combo could boost the Wings’ prospects after a tough 2024 campaign. Meanwhile, the Indiana Fever—sparked by Clark’s development and big free agent signings—are poised for another leap. For a deep dive into expert predictions on title contenders and award favorites, check ESPN's 2025 WNBA Predictions.

New Trends and Storylines in 2025

With so many WNBA teams undergoing transformation, coaching philosophies are evolving too. The Atlanta Dream’s new coach, Karl Smesko, promises a three-point-heavy offense, while rookie head coaches in several cities are changing the pace or rebuilding from scratch. The collective bargaining agreement will also be a focal point as player contracts and league standards come up for negotiation.

Additionally, the league’s popularity is soaring with more national broadcasts and intense fan interest. New players, such as rookies Kamilla Cardoso (Chicago Sky) and Dominique Malonga (Seattle Storm), are set to make an impact as well, adding even more intrigue to the season.

How to Follow WNBA Teams in 2025

Fans have more options than ever to catch live action, from national TV broadcasts to affordable League Pass streaming. The Defector preview breaks down ways to watch every game and offers guidance for enjoying modern women’s basketball.

Conclusion: An Unmissable WNBA Season

The story of the 2025 WNBA teams is one of innovation, rivalry, and rising stars. As the action unfolds, keep an eye on how teams adapt to roster changes, how the league balances tradition with incoming talent, and which squads challenge for the crown. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the sport, this season guarantees drama and world-class basketball.

Ready to dive in? Check out expert breakdowns, follow your favorite team’s journey, and experience every moment of WNBA history in the making.