A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Napheesa Collier are set to hit the court on Sunday, kicking off training camps as they pursue the prestigious WNBA championship. Meanwhile, last year’s standout rookie, Caitlin Clark, is entering her second year in the league.
Breanna Stewart and her New York Liberty are aiming for a second consecutive WNBA title, following Stefanie White and the Las Vegas Aces’ triumphs in the previous two seasons. The Aces have made headlines with offseason roster changes, including the addition of Jewell Loyd in a significant trade that saw Kelsey Plum move to Los Angeles. Despite this shift, the Aces still boast a strong core, featuring Wilson, Loyd, Chelsea Gray, and Jackie Young.
In an effort to strengthen their lineup, New York has signed Natasha Cloud, especially as guard Betnijah Laney-Hamilton faces months on the sidelines after knee surgery.
Changes have been particularly notable with the Indiana Fever, who have transformed their roster significantly this offseason under the leadership of Caitlin Clark. Indiana added Sophie Cunningham through a trade and signed several free agents, including DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard. With Clark and Aliyah Boston on the team, excitement is building in Indiana.
Additionally, the Dallas Wings are looking to inject energy into their team with the top draft pick, Paige Bueckers, joining forces with star player Arike Ogunbowale. Excitingly, Golden State is poised to make its debut as the newest WNBA franchise, marking the first new team to join since the Atlanta Dream in 2008.
On the coaching front, eight out of 13 teams will have new head coaches this season. Teams like Atlanta and Los Angeles have hired college coaches, while Indiana has brought back former player Stephanie White to guide the Fever. The Chicago, Dallas, and Washington teams have also welcomed new head coaches, all of whom previously served as WNBA assistants. Golden State has chosen Natalie Nakase as their inaugural head coach.
Major roster changes have been the theme of this offseason, with many franchises adding renowned players. The Atlanta Dream have welcomed former Mercury All-Star Brittney Griner, who has spent her career with Phoenix, along with former UConn standout Brionna Jones. Phoenix has also made moves to strengthen their squad, acquiring Alyssa Thomas and signing Satou Sabally.
However, the Sun faced a challenge, losing their entire starting five from last season, bringing back former UConn star Tina Charles and adding Diamond DeShields to the mix.
Notably absent this camp are two legendary players: Diana Taurasi and Elena Delle Donne, both of whom have announced their retirements this offseason. Taurasi spent her 20-year career with the Mercury, leading them to three WNBA championships, while Delle Donne helped the Washington Mystics secure their first title in 2019.
With these developments, fans can expect an exciting WNBA season ahead filled with new stories, fresh talent, and the enduring spirit of competition.
