## Fever Re-Sign All-Star Guard Mitchell
The Indiana Fever locked down a key piece of their core, re-signing All-Star guard Kelsey Mitchell to a one-year supermax contract worth approximately $249,000.The move secures Mitchell’s future in Indiana after a career-best season. She averaged 19.2 points per game and shot a career-high 40.2% from the field.
Mitchell’s value extends beyond her individual statistics. Her pairing with rookie sensation Caitlin clark was instrumental in the Fever’s return to the playoffs last year.The duo played the moast minutes together of any two-player combination in the WNBA, and Indiana’s offense thrived with them on the court, averaging 105.1 points per 100 possessions.
Mitchell was designated a “core” player earlier this year,signaling Indiana’s commitment to retaining her.Fever president of basketball Kelly Krauskopf, who drafted Mitchell second overall in 2018, has consistently supported the 5-foot-8 guard.With the backcourt locked down, the Fever’s next priority will be bolstering their frontcourt. This is especially crucial after losing center Temi fagbenle in the December expansion draft.## Mercury Acquire Five-Time All-star Alyssa Thomas in Blockbuster Trade
The Phoenix Mercury have acquired five-time All-Star forward Alyssa Thomas in a blockbuster trade with the Connecticut Sun.The deal sends Natasha Cloud, Rebecca Allen, and the 12th overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft to Connecticut.
Thomas, a two-time All-WNBA first-team selection, is expected to be a major boost for the Mercury. She joins forces with star guard Diana Taurasi and center Brittney Griner, forming a formidable trio.
The Sun, while losing their best player, bolstered their roster with the addition of Cloud, considered by many to be one of the best point guards in the league despite never being named an All-star. Allen, a sharpshooting guard with proven defensive prowess, adds valuable versatility to the Connecticut lineup.
### Connecticut Sun: A
The Sun have recalibrated their roster while remaining competitive.They received valuable assets in return for their star player. Cloud, arguably the best active WNBA player without an All-Star selection, immediately strengthens the point guard position and brings elite playmaking abilities. Allen, a reliable scorer and defender, provides significant support for a team looking to stay in the playoff hunt.
### Phoenix Mercury: To Be Persistent
The addition of Thomas considerably raises the ceiling for the Mercury. Though, the trio of Thomas, Taurasi, and Griner could take time to mesh strategically. Expecting immediate championship contention might be premature. The success of this trade hinges on the team’s ability to find a cohesive on-court identity
WNBA Offseason Shakeup: Aces land Loyd, Sun Restructure, Mercury Retool
The WNBA offseason is in full swing, and a series of blockbuster trades has dramatically reshaped the league landscape. The Las Vegas Aces acquired superstar Jewell Loyd from the Seattle Storm in a complex three-team deal, while the connecticut Sun underwent a significant restructuring, trading Jasmine Thomas to the Phoenix Mercury.
Aces Add Star power with Loyd Acquisition
The Aces, fresh off a championship victory, solidified their status as title favorites by landing Loyd, a four-time All-Star and one of the league’s premier scorers. In exchange, the Storm received Kelsey Plum, a former All-star and key contributor to the Aces’ championship run.
This move significantly strengthens the Aces’ already formidable backcourt, pairing Loyd with Chelsea Gray and jackie Young. The addition of Loyd’s offensive firepower alongside an experienced core makes the Aces a team to beat in 2023.
Sun Restructure Roster, Maintain Versatility
The Connecticut Sun made a significant shift by trading Jasmine thomas to the Phoenix Mercury. the move clearsAthe way for the Sun to perhaps rebuild, with DiJonai Carrington and Brionna Jones set to become free agents.
Connecticut received valuable draft assets in the Thomas trade, positioning them for the future. Whether they choose to re-sign Carrington and Jones or pursue other options, the Sun have flexibility to build a competitive roster moving forward.
Mercury Bet on thomas,Harris Duo
The phoenix Mercury made a bold move by securing Jasmine thomas and forward Alyssa Thomas in a trade with the Connecticut Sun. This acquisition pairs the two with Kahleah Copper and Sophie Cunningham, forming a talented core.
Though, the Mercury face challenges in filling out the rest of their roster. The trade depleted their draft assets, leaving them with limited options to acquire young talent. Their success hinges on their ability to sign key veterans in free agency to provide depth and support around their star players.
WNBA Star Kelsey Plum Traded to Los Angeles Sparks in Three-Team Deal
In a surprising three-team trade, WNBA star Kelsey Plum is headed to the Los Angeles Sparks. The deal also involves the Seattle Storm and Las Vegas Aces, reshaping the landscape of the league ahead of the 2025 season.
Seattle Storm Acquire Draft Picks and Li Yueuru
The Seattle Storm emerged as the biggest winners in the trade,acquiring the Sparks’ No. 2 pick in the 2025 draft and former Los Angeles center Li Yueru.
The storm turned jewell Loyd, who requested a trade this offseason, into the highly coveted No. 2 pick. They also received li Yueru, a promising young center. Considering Loyd’s decline in performance over the past two seasons, obtaining a top draft pick is a tremendous win for the Storm.
Los Angeles Sparks Bet on Kelsey Plum
The Los angeles Sparks took a significant risk, acquiring Plum, a 31-year-old guard who carries significant potential but also comes with a one-year contract.
The Sparks, who have struggled for the past four seasons, are hoping Plum’s scoring prowess can lead them back to the playoffs.
However, the trade could backfire if Plum decides to leave in free agency after the 2025 season. Despite the risk, the Sparks addressed a major need by acquiring a top-tier talent.
Las Vegas Aces Lose Star Power and Draft Capital
The Las Vegas Aces, the reigning back-to-back WNBA champions, were forced into the trade due to Plum’s trade request. They received Jewell Loyd in return but lost a valuable piece of their championship core.
The Aces also downgraded their draft position, trading their 2026 first-round pick for the Sparks’ No.13 pick in 2025. This move potentially hinders the Aces’ ability to build for the future.
While Loyd has the potential to return to All-Star form,her recent performance has fallen short of expectations. The Aces’ championship hopes for 2025 hinge on Loyd regaining her peak form.
WNBA Free Agency Awaits Historic Shift After CBA Opt-out
The upcoming WNBA free agency period is poised for unprecedented change as the league anticipates a seismic shift in player salaries and team dynamics following the Women’s National Basketball players Association’s (WNBPA) decision to opt out of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
With a new media rights deal securing an average of $200 million annually starting in 2026, a significant increase from the current $50 million, the WNBA is bracing for a financial boom. This influx of revenue is expected to translate into considerably higher player salaries and a larger salary cap when the new CBA is finalized.
One-Year Deals Prevalent Amid CBA Uncertainty
This impending financial windfall has led many top free agents to prioritize one-year deals this offseason, allowing them to re-enter the market in 2026 and capitalize on the anticipated salary increases. This strategy is exemplified by star players like Breanna Stewart, who have recently signed short-term contracts.
The 2025 free agency class is projected to be one of the largest in WNBA history, with over 60 players who finished the 2024 season on a roster eligible for unrestricted free agency. Only two players, Kalani Brown and Lexie Brown, are currently signed to contracts beyond 2025.
Key Players to Watch in Free Agency
Among the highly sought-after free agents is Satou Sabally, who publicly expressed her desire to leave the Dallas Wings and explore opportunities with other franchises. The movement of players like Sabally, coupled with other potential blockbuster moves, could reshape the league’s landscape significantly.
The WNBA is entering a period of unprecedented growth and change. The 2025 free agency period promises to be a pivotal moment, with far-reaching consequences for players, teams, and the league’s future.
Top WNBA Free Agents: Stewart Leads Star-Studded Class
Breanna Stewart, a two-time WNBA champion and league MVP, headlines a star-studded free agent class as the Women’s National Basketball Association prepares for a pivotal offseason. Stewart along with other top players like Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally will have the opportunity to sign with new teams, potentially shifting the balance of power across the league.
Free Agency Landscape and Key Players
Several players are expected to command significant interest from teams across the league. The list includes:
* **Breanna Stewart:** The versatile forward is arguably the most sought-after free agent. Coming off a season where she led the New York Liberty to the WNBA Finals, Stewart’s impact on both ends of the court is undeniable.
* **Alyssa Thomas:** The Connecticut Sun star is a perennial all-Star known for her relentless playing style and remarkable versatility. Thomas’s ability to dominate both offensively and defensively makes her a highly valuable asset.
* **Satou Sabally:** The Dallas Wings forward has emerged as one of the league’s most dynamic young players. Her scoring prowess and athleticism projects her to be a cornerstone player for years to come.* **Nneka Ogwumike:** A veteran leader and former MVP, Ogwumike brings a wealth of experience and championship pedigree to any team.
Other notable free agents include Emma Meesseman, Brionna Jones, Kelsey Mitchell, Kelsey Plum, DeWanna Bonner, Brittney Griner, DiJonai Carrington, Chennedy Carter, and Gabby Williams.
Implications for Teams and the League
The movement of top players like Stewart and Thomas has the potential to reshape the competitive landscape. Teams will be jockeying for position to land these coveted free agents, leading to potentially blockbuster trades and strategic roster moves.
The upcoming free agency period promises to be one of the most exciting in WNBA history, with the league’s stars poised to determine the fates of franchises.
WNBA Free Agency: key dates, Cored Players, and Draft Pick Strategies
WNBA free agency is officially underway, with teams already maneuvering to build competitive rosters for the upcoming season. Here’s a breakdown of the key dates, core designations, and how draft picks might factor into trade negotiations.
## Key Free Agency Dates
Franchises had a brief window from January 11th to January 20th to extend qualifying offers to eligible players, making them restricted or reserved free agents. Players were able to accept these offers before February 1st.
Negotiations with free agents of all classifications began on January 21st. However, contracts cannot be finalized and announced until February 1st.
## Understanding Core Player Designations
In the WNBA, a core designation functions similarly to the NFL’s franchise tag. Teams can apply this designation to one unrestricted free agent, preventing her from entering unrestricted free agency.
This designation grants the team exclusive negotiation rights with the player, and any agreement must be a minimum, fully guaranteed one-year contract at the supermax salary.
Players can only be cored a maximum of two times in their careers.
Importantly, even if a player is cored, she may not necessarily play for the team that applied the designation.However,she can only be moved via sign-and-trade agreements.This year’s cored players include:
* Breanna Stewart (Liberty)
* Kelsey Mitchell (Fever)
* Satou sabally (Wings)
* Kelsey Plum (Aces)
* Alyssa Thomas (Sun)
* Gabby Williams (Storm)
## Navigating Draft pick Value
The ongoing CBA negotiations could significantly impact how teams value draft picks in trades. Franchises may be hesitant to part with their first-round picks this year due to the anticipated salary structure for rookies in the next CBA.
The salary slot for a first-round pick this year is likely to be around $76,000, considerably lower than it might be in the next CBA. If rookie minimums increase in the next CBA, players drafted this year would be locked into lower salaries than players drafted next year.
2025 WNBA Free Agency: A look at Potential Moves and Market Shifts
Golden State Valkyries Expected to Be Active Participants
The 2025 WNBA free agency period promises to be a captivating time,with a loaded class of talent poised to test the market. the arrival of the Golden State Valkyries adds another layer of intrigue, as their significant salary cap space could make them a major player in acquiring established stars and free agents seeking lucrative short-term deals.
While the Valkyries selected 11 players in the expansion draft, only three — Stephanie talbot, Kayla Thornton, and Kate Martin — are currently under contract. This leaves the team with ample room to maneuver and potentially reshape their roster through trades and free-agent signings.
Supermax Contracts Could Be in play
With the Valkyries’ deep pockets, they could emerge as a viable destination for players on supermax contracts, typically reserved for the league’s most elite players.
Star-Studded Free Agent Class
The 2025 free agent class boasts a remarkable collection of talent,including multiple former MVPs and multi-time all-Stars. While Breanna Stewart has already announced her intention to return to the New York Liberty, expect considerable movement as other teams aim to dethrone the defending champions.
The 2027 WNBA Draft, featuring highly touted prospects like USC’s JuJu Watkins, Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo, and Texas’ Madison Booker, presents another compelling storyline. Teams may be hesitant to part with draft picks in this upcoming class, given the potential influx of future stars.Please provide the article you would like me to rewrite.I’m ready to transform it into a concise,engaging,and Google News-pleasant piece!
Which teams are expected to be the most aggressive in pursuing top free agents in the 2025 WNBA offseason?
WNBA Free Agency Frenzy: A Star-Studded Market Awaits
The WNBA is bracing for a seismic free agency period in 2025, with a constellation of superstars set to test the market. Breanna Stewart, the reigning Finals MVP, headlines the class, but other established stars like Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, adn nneka Ogwumike are also poised to make moves.
The addition of the Golden State Valkyries, with their considerable salary cap space, adds an intriguing wrinkle to the proceedings. Teams across the league will be jockeying for position to land these coveted free agents,leading to potential blockbuster trades and strategic roster overhauls.
With the 2027 draft class shaping up to be one of the most talented in WNBA history, teams may be hesitant to surrender future draft capital, making this year’s free agency period even more competitive.
Key Questions about the WNBA Free Agency Landscape
**Q: Who are some of the biggest names hitting free agency in 2025?**
**A:** Breanna Stewart, Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, Nneka Ogwumike, Emma Meesseman, Brionna Jones, Kelsey Mitchell, Kelsey Plum, DeWanna Bonner, and Brittney Griner are just a few of the stars who could be on the move.
**Q: how will the Golden State Valkyries factor into free agency?**
**A:** With ample salary cap space and a roster yet to be fully constructed,the Valkyries could be major players. Their deep pockets might entice established superstars looking for lucrative short-term deals.
**Q:** what impact will the 2027 draft class have on free agency?
**A:** The potential influx of young talent in 2027 could make teams hesitant to part with future draft picks. This could lead to more creative trade packages and an even more competitive free-agent market.
**Q: When can teams start negotiating with free agents?**
**A:** Negotiations can begin on January 21st, 2025. Though, contracts cannot be finalized until february 1st.
**Don’t miss out on the action!** Stay tuned for updates and analysis as the WNBA’s free agency frenzy unfolds.
