WNBA 2025 Season Preview: Power Rankings, Championship Odds, and Storylines

The WNBA's 2025 season is poised to be a watershed moment, riding the wave of women's basketball's surging popularity. Anticipation is building as opening day approaches on May 16th, fueled by significant player movements, innovative offseason initiatives, and the undeniable Caitlin Clark effect, which has already translated into impressive preseason viewership for the Indiana Fever.

The New York Liberty, fresh from their championship victory, enter the season as the team to beat. However, the competition is fierce, with teams such as the Las Vegas Aces and Minnesota Lynx hungry to challenge their reign. The Indiana Fever, bolstered by strategic veteran acquisitions around rookie sensation Caitlin Clark, are also generating considerable buzz as potential contenders.

Here's a breakdown of the league's teams, ranked by their odds of winning the 2025 WNBA Championship:

Championship Contenders:

New York Liberty (+225): The defending champions are loaded with talent and determined to repeat.

Las Vegas Aces (+275): Led by A'ja Wilson, the Aces remain a formidable force and a perennial title threat.

Indiana Fever (+300): The arrival of Caitlin Clark has ignited excitement, and the Fever are looking to make a deep playoff run.

Minnesota Lynx (+400): The Lynx, spearheaded by Napheesa Collier, are expected to be strong contenders after a close championship series last year.

Dark Horses:

Phoenix Mercury (+1400): Despite key personnel changes, the Mercury could surprise if they find their rhythm.

Seattle Storm (+3500): The Storm are hoping to recapture their championship form and emerge as a playoff threat.

Atlanta Dream (+5000): With new additions, the Dream are aiming to climb the ranks and make some noise.

Los Angeles Sparks (+5000): The Sparks are rebuilding and looking to develop their young talent into a competitive core.

Chicago Sky (+6600): With Angel Reese joining the squad, the Sky are poised to generate excitement and draw attention.

Dallas Wings (+6600): The Wings hope that No. 1 overall pick Paige Bueckers can lead them to new heights.

Longshots:

Connecticut Sun (+12500): After losing key players, the Sun are entering a rebuilding phase.

Washington Mystics (+15000): The Mystics face an uphill battle after a disappointing 2024 season and pre-season injuries.

Golden State Valkyries (+20000): As an expansion team, the Valkyries face a significant challenge in their inaugural season.