The WNBA schedule 2025 season is officially underway, and it’s already proving to be one of the most dynamic years in league history. With the highly anticipated debut of the Golden State Valkyries, electrifying rookie talent from the latest draft class, and headline-making matchups throughout the schedule, the excitement is at an all-time high. The league’s expansion has energized new fan bases, while evolving player contracts and offseason moves have reshaped team dynamics across the board. Whether you’re following the MVP race, tracking rookies like Paige Bueckers and Hailey Van Lith, or watching heated rivalries unfold, this season has something for every basketball fan. Here’s a full breakdown of what’s making the 2025 WNBA season unmissable.
Opening Weekend Blockbusters
The 2025 WNBA season officially tips off on Friday, May 16, and it’s one of the most anticipated opening weekends in league history. The slate includes three matchups that set the tone for a transformative year in women’s basketball:
- Atlanta Dream at Washington Mystics
- Minnesota Lynx at Dallas Wings
- Los Angeles Sparks at Golden State Valkyries
All eyes will be on the Golden State Valkyries, who make their historic debut as the first WNBA team based in the Bay Area. Their inaugural home game at Chase Center in San Francisco will mark a defining moment not only for the franchise but also for league expansion. With rookie standouts like Justė Jocytė and Shyanne Sellers, the Valkyries are expected to come out with energy and make an immediate impression on the league.
On Saturday, May 17, the spotlight shifts to a potential rivalry in the making:
- Indiana Fever vs. Chicago Sky
This matchup pits Caitlin Clark, the reigning Rookie of the Year, against Angel Reese, the charismatic leader of the Sky. Their contrasting styles—Clark’s deep shooting and Reese’s dominance in the paint—continue to capture national attention. Reese is also making headlines for returning to LSU earlier in May to play in a high-profile preseason exhibition, helping fuel her momentum into the regular season.
Sunday, May 18, features several important showdowns to round out the first weekend:
- Washington Mystics at Connecticut Sun
- Minnesota Lynx at Los Angeles Sparks
With the 2025 rookie class expected to play a major role this season, the opening weekend won’t just showcase seasoned veterans—it will spotlight the next generation of WNBA stars. Fan interest is soaring, preseason games are drawing record streaming numbers, and this weekend is expected to generate one of the league’s highest-ever opening viewerships.
Key Matchups to Watch
The 2025 WNBA season is set to deliver thrilling contests right from the start. Here are some marquee matchups that fans should mark on their calendars:
Indiana Fever vs. Chicago Sky – Saturday, May 17
This game features the much-anticipated showdown between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, two of the league’s brightest young stars.
Clark, the reigning Rookie of the Year, has focused on strength training during the offseason to enhance her performance.
Reese, after a standout rookie season averaging 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game, is aiming to expand her game with improved shooting skills.
Adding to the excitement, Reese’s former LSU teammate, Hailey Van Lith, is set to make her professional debut with the Sky.
New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces – Saturday, May 17
The defending champion Liberty will raise their first championship banner at Barclays Center in a rematch against the Aces.
This game not only celebrates New York’s historic achievement but also tests the Aces’ revamped lineup, which now includes Jewell Loyd, acquired from Seattle.
Golden State Valkyries vs. Los Angeles Sparks – Friday, May 16
The Valkyries will make their WNBA debut at Chase Center, marking the league’s expansion into the Bay Area.
With a roster featuring rookies like Justė Jocytė and Shyanne Sellers, and veterans such as Kayla Thornton and Tiffany Hayes, the Valkyries aim to establish themselves as a competitive force from the outset.
Seattle Storm vs. Phoenix Mercury – Saturday, May 17
This classic matchup pits the Storm’s dynamic backcourt, formerly led by Jewell Loyd, against the Mercury’s seasoned stars, including Brittney Griner and Skylar Diggins-Smith.
Both teams are looking to set the tone for their seasons with a strong performance in this early contest.
Expansion Teams and Their Impact
The debut of the Golden State Valkyries represents a turning point in WNBA history. As the league’s first team in the Bay Area, the Valkyries bring fresh excitement, a new fanbase, and high expectations to the 2025 season. Backed by the ownership of the Golden State Warriors, the team is led by general manager Ohemaa Nyanin and head coach Natalie Nakase, both tasked with building a playoff-caliber squad in a competitive league.
Through a combination of the 2024 expansion draft and smart free-agency moves, the Valkyries have assembled a promising mix of seasoned veterans and rising rookies. The team’s opening-night roster includes standout rookies Justė Jocytė and Shyanne Sellers, along with experienced players like Tiffany Hayes, Kayla Thornton, and Aari McDonald. The Valkyries aren’t just here to participate—they’re aiming to contend from day one.
Their arrival has already had a ripple effect across the WNBA. Fan interest in the Bay Area has skyrocketed, with strong ticket sales and a growing media presence. The Valkyries’ games are expected to become some of the most-watched of the season, especially as they develop rivalries with West Coast teams like the Los Angeles Sparks and Las Vegas Aces.
Looking ahead, league expansion is far from over. The WNBA has confirmed plans to add a Toronto franchise by 2026, marking the league’s first move into Canada. Toronto will bring an international flavor to the league and tap into a large, passionate basketball market. Additionally, Nashville and Portland remain leading contenders for future teams, with official announcements expected soon.
These upcoming additions will not only balance the league geographically but also increase roster spots and coaching opportunities. For fans, players, and the sport as a whole, the WNBA’s expansion is ushering in a new era of growth, visibility, and competition.
Player Salaries and Free Agency Buzz
The WNBA’s growth isn’t limited to the court. Player salaries are a hot topic as the league continues to evolve. Stars like Breanna Stewart and Kelsey Plum are entering free agency, and their decisions will shape the league’s competitive landscape. While Stewart is expected to stay with the Liberty after a banner season, Plum’s future in Las Vegas remains uncertain.
The league’s increasing revenue has allowed for gradual improvements in player compensation. These changes are crucial for retaining top talent and ensuring the WNBA remains a premier destination for elite athletes.
How the WNBA Is Evolving
The 2025 season reflects a league that’s adapting and innovating:
- Global Reach
The WNBA is exploring opportunities to expand its audience internationally. Hosting exhibition games in markets like Japan and Europe could further cement its global presence. - Unrivaled League Influence
The Unrivaled League, an offseason platform for WNBA players, continues to grow in prominence. This league provides athletes with additional exposure and helps maintain interest in women’s basketball year-round. - Enhanced Fan Experiences
With more interactive fan events and digital engagement, the league is making strides to connect with its audience in meaningful ways.
Top Players to Watch in 2025
The 2025 WNBA season promises to be one of the most exciting yet, featuring a blend of seasoned superstars and emerging talent poised to shape the league’s future. Here’s a deeper look at the players you need to keep an eye on this season:
Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever)
Caitlin Clark, the reigning Rookie of the Year, has already cemented her reputation as one of the most electrifying players in the league. Known for her long-range shooting and ability to dominate games, Clark will be the engine driving the Fever’s ambitions this season. Her court vision and scoring ability have drawn comparisons to legends like Diana Taurasi, and she’s expected to be a leading contender for MVP.
Angel Reese (Chicago Sky)
Angel Reese, affectionately known as the “Bayou Barbie,” brings tenacity and charisma to the Chicago Sky. After a stellar rookie season, Reese has become the heart and soul of her team. Her ability to dominate the boards and score in the paint makes her a double-double machine. Fans are eagerly anticipating her matchups with Caitlin Clark, as their on-court rivalry continues to generate buzz and fuel ticket sales.
Breanna Stewart (New York Liberty)
Breanna Stewart remains one of the league’s most complete players, combining offensive versatility with elite defense. Not to mention she is one of the only WNBA Players that can Dunk. After leading the Liberty to their first championship in 2024, Stewart will be focused on repeating the feat. Known for her clutch performances in big games, Stewart is a player every team fears when the stakes are high.
A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces)
As the face of the Las Vegas Aces, A’ja Wilson continues to shine as one of the most dominant forwards in the league. Despite the team’s roster shakeups, Wilson’s leadership and ability to score in the post and defend at an elite level will be pivotal in keeping the Aces competitive.
Sabrina Ionescu (New York Liberty)
Sabrina Ionescu’s role as the Liberty’s floor general has been instrumental in the team’s recent success. Her ability to orchestrate the offense and knock down big shots has made her a fan favorite. With another year of experience under her belt, Ionescu is expected to take her game to even greater heights in 2025.
2025 WNBA Draft Recap: Top Picks and Rising Stars
The 2025 WNBA Draft officially ushered in the next generation of talent, and several new players are expected to make immediate impacts across the league. With expansion creating more roster spots and opportunities, this year’s class has drawn attention for both its star power and depth.
Paige Bueckers (G, UConn) – No. 1 Overall, Dallas Wings
Paige Bueckers was the clear-cut top pick, selected first overall by the Dallas Wings. Her high basketball IQ, elite shooting range, and leadership qualities make her the centerpiece of a rebuilding Dallas team. She enters the WNBA with the poise of a seasoned veteran and will be expected to take the reins immediately.
Hailey Van Lith (G, TCU) – No. 11 Overall, Chicago Sky
Van Lith’s scoring ability and edge made her a top target for Chicago. Taken 11th overall, she joins a backcourt that now features her former LSU teammate Angel Reese. This reunion has the potential to be one of the most exciting storylines of the season, especially given their chemistry and fiery style of play.
Charisma Osborne (G, UCLA) – Phoenix Mercury
Osborne’s selection by the Mercury adds defensive strength and veteran college leadership to Phoenix’s guard rotation. Known for her hustle and ability to contribute on both ends of the court, Osborne will likely find her way into meaningful minutes early in the season.
Maddy Siegrist (F, Villanova) – Dallas Wings
Siegrist, one of the NCAA’s top scorers, also landed in Dallas. Her outside shooting and ability to stretch the floor complement Bueckers perfectly, creating a promising one-two punch. Her size and versatility allow her to slide into multiple roles depending on matchups.
Golden State Valkyries: A New Era Begins
Introducing the Golden State Valkyries to the WNBA is a watershed moment for the league and women’s sports. More than just an expansion team, the Valkyries symbolize a new chapter of growth and opportunity, bringing the excitement of professional women’s basketball to a city renowned for its sports culture.
A State-of-the-Art Home at Chase Center
The Valkyries will call the iconic Chase Center in San Francisco their home, sharing the venue with the NBA’s Golden State Warriors. This state-of-the-art arena is one of the most advanced in the country, boasting cutting-edge technology, premium seating, and an electric game-day atmosphere. Fans can expect a world-class experience, with everything from interactive fan zones to gourmet dining options elevating the matchday vibe.
The Chase Center’s location in the heart of San Francisco also offers accessibility and a vibrant urban backdrop, making it an ideal venue for fans to enjoy both the game and the city’s attractions. With a seating capacity of over 18,000, the Valkyries have a platform to host one of the largest and most passionate fan bases in the WNBA.
A Growing Fanbase in the Bay Area
San Francisco has long been a city that celebrates sports, from the dominance of the Warriors in the NBA to the passionate support for the Giants in MLB. The Valkyries tap into this existing enthusiasm, providing Bay Area fans with another team to rally behind. Early indicators suggest robust interest, with season ticket sales exceeding initial projections.
The Valkyries are also expected to engage deeply with the local community, hosting youth clinics, outreach programs, and charity events that will further endear them to their growing fanbase. This community-first approach aligns perfectly with the values of the WNBA, a league that has always championed social responsibility alongside athletic excellence.
Impact on the WNBA Schedule 2025
The Valkyries’ arrival in the league adds a fresh dynamic to the WNBA schedule for 2025. Their debut game against the Los Angeles Sparks on opening weekend promises to set the tone for the season. The rivalry potential is palpable, especially given the proximity to teams like the Las Vegas Aces, creating natural geographic and competitive storylines.
Their inclusion also shifts the league’s geographic balance, strengthening the WNBA’s presence on the West Coast. This move helps the league tap into a broader fanbase and television market, increasing visibility and opportunities for sponsorship.
A Diverse and Exciting Roster
While the Valkyries’ roster is still being finalized, the team is expected to feature a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. The expansion draft, held earlier this year, allowed them to select experienced players to establish a competitive foundation. Combine that with free agency and the WNBA Draft, and the Valkyries are poised to field a roster that can contend from day one.
New Rivalries and Storylines
The addition of the Valkyries brings exciting new rivalries to the WNBA. Proximity-based matchups with the Las Vegas Aces and Los Angeles Sparks are expected to generate intense competition, while the Valkyries’ games against powerhouses like the New York Liberty and Chicago Sky will test the mettle of the league’s newest team.
Moreover, the Valkyries are entering the league when the WNBA is witnessing a surge in talent and popularity. Players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are already redefining the game, and the Valkyries have the opportunity to carve out their unique identity amidst this competitive landscape.
A Symbol of Growth for the WNBA
The expansion of the league to include the Golden State Valkyries is a testament to the WNBA’s ongoing evolution. It’s not just about adding another team; it’s about reinforcing the league’s commitment to growth, diversity, and excellence. The Valkyries embody the potential of women’s basketball, demonstrating how the sport can thrive in major markets with the right vision and investment.
As the Valkyries prepare for their inaugural season, all eyes will be on San Francisco to see how this team shapes the future of the WNBA. From their high-tech home at Chase Center to their passionate fanbase, the Golden State Valkyries are more than just a team—they’re a movement.
WNBA Schedule 2025
The WNBA schedule 2025 sets the stage for a season filled with drama, milestones, and unforgettable moments. From Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese to the debut of the Golden State Valkyries, this year is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in league history. Fans can expect not just great basketball but also a league that’s pushing boundaries and evolving for the better.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the WNBA, 2025 offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars, secure your tickets, and get ready for a season to remember!
