2025 WNBA Season Set to Begin Amid Major Team Changes

PHOENIX, Arizona — The 2025 WNBA season is about to tip off on May 16, bringing significant changes across the league. Star players have switched teams, coaching changes are abundant, and an influx of promising rookies will make their debut.

This season marks the first for the Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s 13th franchise, as they begin play after an offseason of excitement and upheaval. The changes were propelled in part by a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on the horizon, as the current deal expires after this season.

With many teams on one-year contracts, a wave of transformations is expected once the new CBA is finalized. Star players like Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally have left the Phoenix Mercury for the epicenter of change, joining a team without Diana Taurasi or Brittney Griner.

In addition to the Mercury’s shake-up, the Las Vegas Aces have signed Jewell Loyd while dealing Kelsey Plum to the Los Angeles Sparks. This move contributed to the Aces’ revamped lineup as they aim for another championship run.

The Indiana Fever sought improvement with a new roster, particularly by hiring head coach Stephanie White and bringing in top players like Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston. Meanwhile, the Chicago Sky aims to revitalize their performance with the return of Courtney Vandersloot and trade acquisition Ariel Atkins.

The Minnesota Lynx hold strong from their previous season’s success and will rely on key players Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride, while the New York Liberty, led by Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, strive to defend their championship title.

In Connecticut, a rebuild is underway as the Sun trade Alyssa Thomas to the Mercury, leaving Marina Mabrey as the remaining core player. Head coach Rachid Meziane is tasked with guiding this new chapter for the franchise.

The atmosphere surrounding the league is one of anticipation as teams finalize their rosters and prepare for the opener. Coach Nate Tibbetts of the Mercury expressed optimism despite making tough cuts to solidify the roster.

The 2025 WNBA season promises thrilling storylines and fierce competition as teams adjust to significant changes, keeping fans eager for the ball to tip-off this Friday.