With the WNBA regular season winding down to its final two weeks, the intensity on the court is reaching fever pitch. Every game carries significant weight as teams battle for playoff berths and advantageous seeding. As the stakes rise, individual player performances become even more crucial in determining their team’s fate. This article highlights the players who are poised to make a significant impact during this critical stretch. We’ll delve into their recent performances, key stats, and how their contributions could sway the WNBA standings. From seasoned veterans to emerging stars, these are the athletes you need to watch as the playoff picture comes into focus.
This analysis isn’t just about highlighting individual brilliance; it’s about understanding the intricate web of team dynamics and the crucial role these players play within their respective squads. Their ability to perform under pressure, adapt to changing game situations, and elevate their teammates will be instrumental in shaping the final WNBA standings. Get ready to explore the compelling narratives and potential game-changing performances that will define the closing chapter of the 2025 WNBA regular season.
Minnesota Lynx: Alanna Smith & DiJonai Carrington
Despite a recent setback against Seattle, the Minnesota Lynx are still strong contenders for the No. 1 overall seed in the playoffs. The return of Napheesa Collier from an ankle injury is a significant boost, complementing the consistent performances of All-Stars Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams. However, two other players are pivotal to the Lynx’s success: starting center Alanna Smith and impactful bench player DiJonai Carrington. Both Smith and Carrington earned All-Defensive Team selections last season, underscoring their defensive prowess. Their contributions have solidified the Lynx’s league-leading 97.7 defensive rating.
Alanna Smith’s defensive impact is particularly noteworthy. She stands alongside Las Vegas’ A’ja Wilson as the only players in the league averaging at least two blocks and one steal per game, showcasing her ability to disrupt opponents’ offenses and protect the paint. DiJonai Carrington’s energy and defensive tenacity off the bench provide a spark for the Lynx, making her a valuable asset in closing out games and maintaining defensive intensity throughout the contest. Their combined defensive contributions will be crucial as the Lynx aim to secure the top seed and navigate the playoffs.
Las Vegas Aces: A’ja Wilson
A’ja Wilson, the reigning MVP, is making a compelling case for her fourth MVP award. Her outstanding performance since the All-Star break has fueled the Las Vegas Aces’ impressive 12-game winning streak, propelling them up the WNBA standings. Wilson’s dominance will be put to the test when the Aces face the Lynx in a highly anticipated matchup between the top two teams in the league and the top two scorers. During the Aces’ winning streak, Wilson has been averaging an astounding 26.8 points, including six games with over 30 points, boosting her season average to 23.4 points per game, just behind Collier in the scoring race.
Beyond scoring, Wilson’s all-around game is exceptional. She ranks second in rebounding (10.1), first in blocks (2.2), and eighth in steals (1.6), demonstrating her versatility and impact on both ends of the court. Her ability to control the paint, disrupt opponents’ offenses, and contribute in multiple statistical categories makes her a force to be reckoned with. As the Aces aim to secure a top playoff seed, Wilson’s continued dominance will be essential.
Atlanta Dream: Allisha Gray
Allisha Gray has been an indispensable player for the Atlanta Dream, leading the WNBA in total minutes played this season with 1,337. Having appeared in all 38 of Atlanta’s games, Gray’s durability and consistent performance have been crucial to the Dream’s success. As a three-time All-Star, Gray is having a career year, averaging career-best marks in points (18.7), rebounds (5.4), and assists (3.6). Her scoring prowess, combined with her ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, makes her a key player to watch as the Dream contend for a top-four playoff berth.
Gray’s ability to knock down 3-pointers is another significant aspect of her game. With 92 3-pointers made this season, she ranks among the league’s top shooters from beyond the arc. Her 38.8% shooting percentage from 3-point range is her highest mark in three seasons with the Dream, demonstrating her improved accuracy and confidence from long range. Gray’s consistent scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, combined with her 3-point shooting ability, make her a vital component of the Dream’s offense and a player to watch closely as the season concludes.
Phoenix Mercury: Kahleah Copper & Satou Sabally
Kahleah Copper’s availability and performance have been inconsistent this season due to injuries. After missing the first month with a knee injury and playing only five games in July due to a rib injury, Copper has been more active in August, averaging 16.7 points per game. Her recent 28-point performance against Chicago demonstrates her scoring potential when healthy. Satou Sabally, who leads the team in scoring with 16.7 points per game, is another player to watch. The Mercury have a significantly better record (11-4) when Sabally scores over 15 points, compared to when she scores 15 or less (9-9).
The Mercury’s success in the final weeks of the season hinges on the consistent performance and availability of Copper and Sabally. If Copper can stay healthy and maintain her scoring output, and if Sabally can consistently exceed the 15-point mark, the Mercury will be a dangerous team to face. Their combined offensive firepower and ability to complement each other’s strengths will be crucial as the Mercury battle for a playoff spot.
New York Liberty: Breanna Stewart
Breanna Stewart’s return from a bone bruise in her right knee is a welcome sight for the New York Liberty. After missing a month and 13 games, Stewart has returned to the court, albeit with a minutes restriction. In her first two games back, she averaged 15.5 points and seven rebounds, contributing to a pair of Liberty wins. However, questions remain about how her knee will respond to increased minutes and the heightened pressure of the postseason. With key players like Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, Natasha Cloud, and Nyara Sabally sidelined, Stewart’s performance and health are paramount to the Liberty’s ability to maintain their playoff position.
The Liberty’s success in the final weeks of the season depends heavily on Stewart’s ability to lead the team and overcome the challenges posed by injuries to key players. Her scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence will be essential as the Liberty aim to secure a favorable playoff seed and defend their title. Stewart’s ability to elevate her teammates and perform under pressure will be crucial as the Liberty navigate the final stretch of the regular season and prepare for the playoffs.
Indiana Fever: Aliyah Boston & Odyssey Sims
In a recent win, the Indiana Fever saw strong performances from Aliyah Boston, Odyssey Sims, and Kelsey Mitchell. Boston has been a consistent force for the Fever, ranking among the league’s top players in scoring, rebounding, and shot blocking. She has also recorded the fourth-most double-doubles in the league this season. Sims, on the other hand, has provided a spark for the Fever’s backcourt, averaging 9.8 points and 4.2 assists over six games while shooting 38.5% from 3-point range. Her veteran presence and ability to distribute the ball have been valuable for a Fever team dealing with guard injuries.
The Fever’s playoff hopes depend on the continued strong play of Boston and Sims. Boston’s consistent scoring and rebounding provide a solid foundation for the team, while Sims’ ability to create scoring opportunities and knock down shots from the perimeter adds another dimension to the Fever’s offense. As the season winds down, the Fever will need both players to maintain their level of play and contribute to a strong finish.
Seattle Storm: Gabby Williams
Gabby Williams has been a versatile and impactful player for the Seattle Storm. In a recent comeback win over the Lynx, Williams contributed 16 points, four rebounds, three assists, two blocks, one steal, and four 3-pointers. Her ability to fill the stat sheet has earned her the nickname “French Army Knife” from her head coach. Williams’ season averages of 12.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2.3 steals are marks that have only been achieved by two other players in WNBA history: Tamika Catchings and Angel McCoughtry.
Williams’ versatility and ability to contribute in multiple areas make her a valuable asset for the Storm. Her scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defensive skills allow her to impact the game in various ways, making her a difficult matchup for opponents. As the Storm gear up for the playoffs, Williams’ continued strong play and versatility will be crucial to their success.
Golden State Valkyries: Tiffany Hayes & Iliana Rupert
Tiffany Hayes’ availability is uncertain due to a knee injury sustained in a collision with Kahleah Copper. Her return will be critical as the Golden State Valkyries find themselves in a tight battle for the final playoff spots. With the Valkyries potentially making history as the first WNBA expansion franchise to reach the playoffs, getting Hayes back on the court is a top priority. Iliana Rupert, a 6-foot-4 center from France, has been a consistent contributor for the Valkyries, leading the WNBA in 3-point percentage (46.3%).
The Valkyries’ playoff chances hinge on Hayes’ recovery and Rupert’s continued production. Hayes’ scoring and playmaking ability would provide a significant boost to the Valkyries’ offense, while Rupert’s 3-point shooting stretches the floor and creates opportunities for her teammates. As the Valkyries battle for a playoff spot, the contributions of Hayes and Rupert will be essential.
Los Angeles Sparks: Dearica Hamby & Azurá Stevens
Dearica Hamby and Azurá Stevens have been key contributors for the Los Angeles Sparks. Hamby is among the league leaders in points, rebounds, steals, and field goal percentage, while Stevens is a top rebounder, shot blocker, and 3-point shooter. Both players’ diverse talents have been instrumental in keeping the Sparks in playoff contention.
Hamby’s scoring, rebounding, and defensive abilities make her a valuable all-around player, while Stevens’ rebounding, shot blocking, and 3-point shooting provide the Sparks with versatility and floor spacing. As the Sparks battle for a playoff berth, the continued strong play of Hamby and Stevens will be crucial.
Washington Mystics: Shakira Austin
Shakira Austin has been a bright spot for the Washington Mystics. In a recent game, Austin scored a career-high 30 points, showcasing her scoring potential. Her scoring has increased each season since being drafted third overall in 2022. As the Mystics aim to snap a losing streak and avoid playoff elimination, Austin’s performance will be critical.
Austin’s scoring, rebounding, and defensive abilities make her a key player for the Mystics. Her ability to score inside and outside, combined with her rebounding and shot blocking, allows her to impact the game on both ends of the court. As the Mystics fight for a playoff spot, Austin’s continued strong play will be essential.
Connecticut Sun: Tina Charles & Marina Mabrey
Tina Charles is on the verge of breaking the WNBA record for most field goals made. She needs just 19 more field goals to surpass Diana Taurasi. Meanwhile, Marina Mabrey has been instrumental in the Sun’s late-season resurgence. The Sun have a winning record since Mabrey returned from injury.
Charles’ scoring prowess and Mabrey’s playmaking ability make them a formidable duo. As the Sun prepare for the playoffs, the contributions of Charles and Mabrey will be crucial.
Chicago Sky: Kamilla Cardoso
Kamilla Cardoso’s development alongside Angel Reese is a key focus for the Chicago Sky. While the Sky have been eliminated from playoff contention, the growth of Cardoso and Reese as a frontcourt tandem is crucial for the team’s future success. The chemistry and interplay between Cardoso and Reese will be closely watched as the season concludes.
The Sky’s future success hinges on the development of Cardoso and Reese. Their ability to complement each other’s strengths and form a dominant frontcourt will be essential for the Sky’s future.
Dallas Wings: Maddy Siegrist
Maddy Siegrist is poised to capitalize on increased opportunities due to injuries on the Dallas Wings roster. With eight players listed on the injury report, Siegrist is expected to build on her already career-best numbers. She has been averaging 15.3 points on 56.2% shooting over the past 10 games.
Siegrist’s scoring ability and efficiency make her a valuable asset for the Wings. As she gets more opportunities, she has the potential to make a significant impact and help the Wings finish the season strong.
As the WNBA regular season draws to a close, the performances of these key players will have a significant impact on the final WNBA standings and playoff picture. From MVP candidates like A’ja Wilson to emerging stars like Aliyah Boston and versatile contributors like Gabby Williams, each player brings a unique skill set and level of intensity to their respective teams. Their ability to perform under pressure, overcome challenges, and elevate their teammates will determine their teams’ success in the final weeks of the season.
The WNBA playoff race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with several teams vying for the top spots. The players highlighted in this article are poised to make a difference, and their contributions will be closely watched as the season concludes. Stay tuned to FYM News for continued coverage of the WNBA playoffs and the performances of these key players.
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