By Cornell Crayton
As the abbreviated WNBA pre-season kicks off, it’s a good time to reflect on the wild ride that was the 2024 WNBA season—and how it’s reshaping the basketball world.
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese: From College Icons to Pro Phenoms
Few could have predicted just how quickly Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese would take over the narrative—not just of the W, but of the broader sports conversation. They not only met expectations—they shattered them. And they weren’t alone.
Former Chicago Sky guard Chennedy Carter (now playing in Mexico) and Indiana Fever’s returning star Kelsey Mitchell added depth to the storyline, shining as seasoned veterans alongside rookie juggernauts. Add to that stellar performances from established names like A’ja Wilson, Alyssa Thomas, Napheesa Collier, and Breanna Stewart, and you had a season that felt like a turning point for the league.
A League Growing Too Fast for Its Infrastructure
In less than six months, the WNBA’s popularity exposed the gap between player expectations and outdated league standards—subpar facilities, low wages, commercial flight schedules, and a growing demand from media that the league wasn’t quite prepared to meet. The momentum was undeniable, but so were the growing pains.
What’s New in 2025?
The 2025 season promises to double down on what worked—and shake things up. Thanks to shorter contracts, modest salaries, and more fluid free agency rules, team rosters can change quickly.
Just look at the offseason moves:
- Natasha Cloud is now with the Liberty.
- Jewel Lloyd joins a stacked Las Vegas roster.
- Kelsey Plum heads to L.A.
- NaLyssa Smith lands in Dallas.
- Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas are headed to Phoenix.
Even rookies are getting help fast. Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso now have Kia Nurse, Ariel Atkins, and Courtney Vandersloot by their side. Over in Indiana, Caitlin Clark is teaming up with DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard.
Can the W Keep the Energy Alive?
2025 is a crucial year. The league has the stars, the momentum, and the fans. The only question is: Can it sustain that energy?
Let’s hope so—because without the NFL and NBA, summer sports can feel pretty barren.
Until next time.
