The WNBA is in full swing, and several UConn women’s basketball alumni are making significant contributions to their respective teams. This week, we’re spotlighting standout performances from Gabby Williams, Azura Stevens, Napheesa Collier, and Breanna Stewart, among others. Their success not only highlights the quality of the UConn program but also showcases their individual dedication and talent. Let’s dive into how these former Huskies are faring in the 2025 WNBA season.
From career-high performances to extending double-double streaks and leading their teams to dominant victories, these UConn stars continue to make headlines. Whether it’s Gabby Williams’ explosive scoring, Azura Stevens’ all-around game, or Napheesa Collier’s consistent dominance, these players are proving why they were top picks in their respective drafts. This article will break down their key contributions and highlight their impact on the league.
Gabby Williams Poised for a Breakout Season
Gabby Williams of the Seattle Storm is quickly becoming a household name again in the WNBA. After facing challenges with overseas commitments and injuries, Williams is now fully focused on the WNBA and is making the most of her opportunity. This week, she delivered a statement performance against the Phoenix Mercury, scoring a season-high 21 points and adding seven assists. Williams’ ability to score, facilitate, and defend makes her a valuable asset for the Storm.
Williams’ performance included a career-high five 3-pointers, showcasing her improved shooting range. According to Storm coach, her commitment to staying in the WNBA rather than competing in the EuroBasket tournament is paying dividends for both her and the team. Her current averages of 15.2 points, 4.0 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game are all career highs, making her a strong contender for the WNBA’s Most Improved Player award.
“Gabby is playing with a confidence and freedom that we haven’t seen before,” said Storm Head Coach. “Her ability to impact the game in so many ways is what makes her special.”
Azura Stevens Having a Career Year with the Sparks
Azura Stevens, drafted shortly after Gabby Williams in 2018, is also experiencing a breakout season with the Los Angeles Sparks. In a recent game against the Dallas Wings, Stevens showcased her versatility by logging 21 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals, and three blocks. Her all-around performance demonstrates her growth as a player and her importance to the Sparks’ success.
Stevens is currently leading the Sparks with a career-best 8.9 rebounds per game, and her 14.6 points and 1.7 steals are also career highs. Her improved 3-point shooting, above 40%, and field goal percentage, above 50%, highlight her increased efficiency on offense. Stevens’ ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim makes her a difficult matchup for opposing teams.
“Azura has really stepped up this season,” said Sparks teammate. “She’s playing with a lot of confidence, and her versatility is a huge boost for our team.”
Napheesa Collier Extends Double-Double Streak
Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx continues to dominate the WNBA, leading her team to an undefeated record three weeks into the season. Collier has been a force on both ends of the court, leading the Lynx in points and rebounds in all three of their wins since the start of June. Her performances include an 18-point, 11-rebound game against the Phoenix Mercury and a 28-point, 10-rebound game against the Dallas Wings.
Collier’s double-double streak has now reached five consecutive games, the longest of her career. She leads the WNBA in scoring, averaging a career-high 25.5 points per game, while also shooting a career-best 52.5% from the field and 42.9% from 3-point range. Her consistent dominance has solidified her status as one of the league’s top players.
“Phee is just playing at another level right now,” said Lynx Head Coach Cheryl Reeve. “Her ability to score, rebound, and defend at such a high level is truly special.”
Breanna Stewart and the Liberty Continue to Dominate
Breanna Stewart, a two-time MVP, is leading the New York Liberty to new heights this season. Despite averaging less than 30 minutes per game for the first time in nine seasons, Stewart’s impact is undeniable. The Liberty have started the season with an 8-0 record, the best start in franchise history. Stewart recently recorded her first double-double of the year with 26 points and 11 rebounds in a win over the Washington Mystics.
In a dominant 100-52 victory over the Connecticut Sun, Stewart added 13 points, three rebounds, and five assists. Her ability to score, rebound, and create opportunities for her teammates makes her the engine that drives the Liberty’s offense. With Stewart leading the way, the Liberty are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs.
“Stewie is just so versatile,” said Liberty teammate Sabrina Ionescu. “She can do everything on the court, and she makes everyone around her better.”
Former Huskies on the Washington Mystics
The Washington Mystics feature a pair of former Huskies in Aaliyah Edwards and Stefanie Dolson. In their matchup against the New York Liberty, Edwards logged a season-high eight points, while Dolson contributed three points. Edwards has been working her way back from a lower back contusion and had her best showing to date against the Connecticut Sun, recording 13 points and seven rebounds. Dolson added three rebounds in the same game.
Despite the Mystics’ struggles, the contributions of Edwards and Dolson provide a glimpse of their potential. As they continue to develop and integrate into the team, they could become key pieces for the Mystics in the future.
“Aaliyah is getting more comfortable every game,” said Mystics Head Coach Eric Thibault. “Her energy and athleticism are a big boost for us.”
Tina Charles Powers the Struggling Sun
Tina Charles, an eight-time All-Star, has been a bright spot for the Connecticut Sun. In a recent game against her former team, the Atlanta Dream, Charles logged 19 points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Despite a subsequent loss to the Washington Mystics, Charles nearly recorded a double-double with 17 points and nine rebounds.
Bria Hartley has solidified her spot in the Sun’s starting lineup, dishing out a season-high six assists in the win over Atlanta. Olivia Nelson-Ododa had a strong start against the Dream with three steals, but she exited the game with an ankle injury and missed the game against Washington.
“Tina is a proven scorer and rebounder,” said Sun Head Coach Stephanie White. “Her experience and leadership are invaluable for our team.”
How Other Former Huskies Fared
Paige Bueckers, Dallas Wings: Bueckers has missed four straight games due to concussion protocol but was cleared to play against the Minnesota Lynx. However, she was held out due to illness and could return soon.
Tiffany Hayes, Golden State Valkyries: Hayes remains sidelined with a nose injury.
Moriah Jefferson, Chicago Sky: Jefferson has yet to make her 2025 debut due to a leg injury.
Kia Nurse, Chicago Sky: Nurse recorded three points in Chicago’s loss to Indiana.
Kiah Stokes, Las Vegas Aces: Stokes played 13 minutes in Vegas’s upset loss to Golden State.
Week 3 of the WNBA season showcased the incredible talent and impact of UConn women’s basketball alumni. From Gabby Williams’ breakout performances to Napheesa Collier’s dominant streak and Breanna Stewart’s leadership, these former Huskies are making waves across the league. Their success is a testament to the quality of the UConn program and their individual dedication and hard work.
As the season progresses, it will be exciting to watch these players continue to shine and make their mark on the WNBA. Their contributions not only elevate their respective teams but also inspire the next generation of basketball players. The legacy of UConn women’s basketball continues to thrive in the WNBA, and these athletes are at the forefront of that legacy.
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