The State of the League

The WNBA enters its 30th anniversary year with considerable momentum. Between rising salary caps, high-profile roster shifts, and a wave of emerging young talent, the league is positioned for a historic campaign. While younger athletes are making significant strides, the established veterans of the league appear determined to hold their ground.


Recent projections from a panel of basketball experts suggest that veteran dominance will continue into this season. Of the 10 players selected for the preseason All-WNBA lists, seven have at least eight years of experience, including 14-year veteran Nneka Ogwumike and 12-year star Alyssa Thomas.


First Team Selections

  • A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces): Coming off an MVP-winning season and WNBA Finals victory, Wilson continues to be the league's gold standard. She led the 2025 season in total points and points per game, maintaining a defensive presence that remains unmatched in the paint.
  • Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty): Often considered the second-best player in the league, Stewart enters her 10th season in peak health. After an offseason characterized by international success, she remains a formidable force on both ends of the floor.
  • Paige Bueckers (Dallas Wings): Following a standout rookie campaign, the young guard is poised for an MVP-caliber year. With improved efficiency and a more robust interior supporting cast in Dallas, Bueckers is expected to refine her playmaking and long-range shooting.
  • Alyssa Thomas (Phoenix Mercury): Known for her versatility and passing, Thomas achieved career-best numbers in field goal percentage and assists last season. Her role is expected to expand even further as she anchors the Mercury’s rotation.
  • Jackie Young (Las Vegas Aces): Recognized as one of the premier two-way guards in the sport, Young is coming off a dominant postseason performance. Her continuity with the Aces makes her a primary contender for league-wide recognition.

Second Team Selections

  • Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever): Despite an injury-shortened 2025, Clark’s ability to manipulate defenses with her deep-range shooting and elite passing remains a highlight of the league. Expectations are high for her to lead the Fever back to contention.
  • Allisha Gray (Atlanta Dream): An ideal "3-and-D" specialist, Gray has proven herself to be one of the most efficient offensive threats in the WNBA. Her disciplined defensive approach and scoring versatility are central to the Dream’s success.
  • Aliyah Boston (Indiana Fever): A key frontcourt anchor, Boston continues to develop her consistency in the post and pick-and-roll game. Her growth as a rim protector and efficient scorer will be vital for Indiana’s championship aspirations.
  • Kelsey Plum (Los Angeles Sparks): After a high-scoring 2025 campaign, Plum steps into a primary leadership role with the Sparks. Her ability to maintain offensive efficiency while anchoring a new system will be a major narrative of the season.
  • Nneka Ogwumike (Los Angeles Sparks): A model of consistency, Ogwumike has secured All-WNBA second-team honors for four consecutive years. Her durability and ability to adapt her game—including expanding her range to the 3-point line—make her indispensable.

Honorable mentions included Kahleah Copper, Sabrina Ionescu, Rhyne Howard, Veronica Burton, and Kelsey Mitchell.