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Sun Make Head-Scratching Move Trading Rebecca Allen to Chicago

The WNBA offseason is heating up, with teams maneuvering to build dynamic rosters for the​ upcoming season.One trade, however, has left analysts scratching ⁤their heads.‌ the Connecticut Sun traded standout​ guard Rebecca Allen ​to the‌ Chicago Sky ⁢in ‍a move that appears to benefit Chicago more than Connecticut.

A Win ​for Chicago

This⁣ trade is a clear win for the chicago Sky. Allen adds valuable depth to their backcourt. While the Sky may not be focused on chasing ⁢a⁢ championship this year, trading for ​a talented player like Allen at such a low cost is a shrewd move.She’ll provide veteran leadership and scoring punch behind Courtney Vandersloot and Moriah Jefferson.

A ​Questionable Move for connecticut

The⁢ Connecticut Sun’s decision to trade away Rebecca Allen is baffling.Allen, on a protected contract worth⁣ $160,000 in 2025, could ⁤have fetched a more important return. Trading ⁢her to the Sky, with whom the Sun have the ​right to swap first-round⁢ picks⁣ in 2026,⁣ makes this move even more questionable. ⁣This trade seems to signal Connecticut is intentionally aiming for a lower regular-season record to secure a higher draft pick.

The Sun received Lindsay ‍Allen and the rights to Nikolina Milić ​in return. Lindsay Allen, a journeywoman who is about ⁢to join ⁣her sixth team in eight years, will likely become a‍ developmental ​player for Jacy Sheldon. Nikolina Milić has sparely seen playing​ time in her two WNBA seasons, offering little in terms of immediate impact.

This trade leaves many wondering about Connecticut’s long-term strategy.⁢

# Sky⁢ Acquire Rebecca Allen, Wings⁣ Land DiJonai Carrington in Three-Team⁣ Deal

The Chicago Sky bolstered their shooting and roster flexibility in a three-team trade that sent Rebecca Allen to Chicago, DiJonai Carrington to Dallas, and Jacy Sheldon to Connecticut.

The Sky​ acquired Allen from Connecticut in exchange ⁣for​ the No. 8 pick in ⁤the 2025 WNBA draft. Dallas received Carrington, the No. ​12 pick in the 2025 draft, and the right to⁤ swap second-round picks with Connecticut in ⁢2026. Connecticut acquired‌ Sheldon and moved up four spots in‍ the 2025 draft.

The Sky, who have a young core featuring Angel Reese and ‍Kamilla Cardoso, were seeking additional shooting to complement their ⁢inside game. Allen,a career 36.3% three-point shooter, ‌brings⁣ valuable outside scoring to Chicago. Her⁤ versatility also allows her to play​ alongside Reese or Cardoso in smaller lineups, adding depth and flexibility to the sky’s roster.

For Dallas, acquiring Carrington provides a⁤ veteran ‌presence and scoring punch. Carrington brings valuable experience and a proven⁤ track record, having previously played for ‍the Indiana Fever and⁢ Phoenix Mercury.

This trade marks the beginning of a rebuilding phase for Connecticut.With several key players departing, including Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner, the Sun are focused on acquiring young⁢ talent‌ and ⁣draft assets. Sheldon, a promising guard from​ Ohio State, fits perfectly into this plan, offering potential for growth ⁤and contributing to Connecticut’s future success.

WNBA Trade: Satou Sabally Heads to Phoenix Mercury

In a three-team‌ deal involving the‌ Phoenix Mercury, Dallas Wings, and Indiana Fever, two-time⁤ WNBA All-Star ‌Satou Sabally is heading to Phoenix, marking the ⁤final‍ major move of the 2025 WNBA offseason.

Deal Details

The ‌Mercury are sending the No. 19 pick in the 2025 draft, guard Ty Harris, guard Sophie Cunningham, and forward Mikiah Herbert Harrigan to‌ Dallas. In return, Phoenix acquires Sabally, forward Kalani brown, and guard Sevgi Uzun from the Wings.

Assessing the Move: Phoenix Gets a ⁢Star

This trade considerably strengthens⁢ the Mercury, who ⁢were in need of a star‍ player to complement diana Taurasi and brittney Griner. Sabally, known for her versatility and scoring ability, is a dynamic addition to Phoenix’s roster.

The 25-year-old forward averaged 11.3 points and 4.4 rebounds per game last season for Dallas.

Wings Retool,Feathers Get Assets

The Wings received​ valuable assets in the deal.

The No. 19 pick gives them another opportunity to add young talent in‍ the 2025 draft. Harris,⁤ Cunningham and Herbert Harrigan all bring experience and depth to the Wings roster.

For the Fever, the trade provides more assets for their⁣ rebuilding process. Brown⁢ and uzun are young ‌players with untapped potential. ‌

WNBA Free Agency: Analyzing blockbuster Trades

Three major WNBA trades have shaken up the league’s landscape, with All-Star talent changing teams and draft picks flying. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest moves and their implications:

Phoenix suns: A+

The‍ Phoenix ‌Mercury landed a coveted star in ⁣Satou Sabally, forming​ a formidable trio alongside Alyssa Thomas and Diana Taurasi. Sabally, a top-five talent during her ⁢healthy 2023 season, strengthens Phoenix’s championship aspirations.

the Mercury ingeniously utilized Ty Harris,acquired in the Thomas trade,along with their final 2024 rotation player and a second-round pick (No. 19) to secure Sabally.While they had to take on Kalani Brown’s salary,it’s a manageable concern considering the projected salary cap⁣ increase in 2026.

Indiana Fever: B+

The Indiana Fever made ⁤a strategic move,⁣ swapping NaLyssa smith, whose skills overlapped with recent free-agent addition Natasha Howard, for⁣ a more versatile player in Rhyne Howard. the Fever dipped 11 ⁣spots in the draft but gained a better⁣ fit for their roster.

Cunningham’s proven 3-and-D abilities boost Indiana’s immediate competitiveness while the trade’s cost,a first-round pick,is partially offset by their ample young talent.

Dallas Wings: D

The Dallas Wings’ trade-off for Sabally appears‌ underwhelming.​ ⁢Acquiring ⁤Ty Harris, whose potential is yet to be fully realized, and late first-round pick alongside the departing Natasha Howard, feels lopsided.

dallas ‍managed ⁢to shed Kalani brown’s ⁤contract, but failing ​to secure desirable​ assets like a young player on a rookie contract or future draft pick options ‌weakens this deal.

atlanta Dream Bolster Frontcourt with Brionna⁤ Jones Signing

The ‍Atlanta Dream have made a splash in free agency, agreeing to terms with center Brionna Jones.Jones joins former Phoenix Mercury center Brittney Griner, forming a formidable duo in the ⁣paint under new ‌head coach karl smesko.While the pairing of Jones and Griner raises questions about positional overlap — both are conventional post-up centers who don’t stretch the floor with three-point shooting — their‌ individual talent is undeniable. Jones is ​a ⁢three-time All-Star ⁣and FIBA World cup champion, consistently ranking among the league leaders in win‍ shares. She has‌ proven⁤ adept at playing alongside another big, demonstrating ⁤chemistry⁤ with both Alyssa⁤ Thomas and Jonquel ⁤Jones during her time in⁤ Connecticut.

Jones’s ability to cut to the basket and play off the ball makes ⁤her a ⁤valuable asset despite⁤ the lack of perimeter shooting.However, the duo’s lack of elite defensive rebounding could be a weakness.

It‍ remains to ‌be seen if Jones will start alongside Griner or come off the bench, allowing the Dream to stagger their minutes and pair them with other talent like fourth-year forward Naz Hillmon.⁣ nonetheless, the additions of ‌Griner and Jones signal ‍a shift ⁢for the Dream, transforming⁢ them into a free-agent destination for top-tier talent.

Last year’s acquisitions‍ of Jordin canada and Aerial Powers were more role player-focused. Now, with Griner and Jones choosing Atlanta, the ⁣Dream are assembling⁢ a roster with championship aspirations.

WNBA Free Agency: Indiana Fever re-Sign Kelsey Mitchell to Supermax ⁤Deal

The Indiana Fever have secured the future of their backcourt, re-signing two-time All-Star guard Kelsey‌ Mitchell to ⁢a one-year supermax contract worth approximately $249,000. This move solidifies the franchise’s ‌commitment to building around Mitchell, who is considered a cornerstone of the‌ team’s resurgence.

Mitchell’s Impact and Future in Indiana

Mitchell, entering her eighth season with the Fever, is coming ⁢off a career-best year, averaging 19.2⁢ points per game​ and shooting⁤ 40.2% from the field. ⁣Her pairing with rookie sensation ⁢Caitlin Clark was instrumental in Indiana’s return to the playoffs. The ⁢two guards formed the most-played duo in the ‌WNBA, leading the Fever to an impressive 105.1 points per 100 possessions when on the court together.

Fever president of basketball operations Kelly Krauskopf,who drafted Mitchell No. 2 overall in 2018, has consistently expressed her belief in Mitchell’s⁤ abilities. Upon returning to the Fever this fall, Krauskopf emphasized Mitchell’s vital role in the franchise’s future, considering ⁣her part of the team’s “Big 3.”

With Mitchell secured, the fever ⁣will ⁣now focus on bolstering their roster, particularly in the frontcourt,‌ following⁣ the loss of center Temi Fagbenle in the expansion draft. ​

Atlanta Dream Add Star Power with Brittney Griner

The Atlanta Dream made a significant move in free agency, signing center Brittney Griner after her time with the Phoenix Mercury. Griner, an eight-time All-Star, will provide the Dream with much-needed scoring punch in the frontcourt. She ‍was the WNBA’s most efficient scorer among players averaging at ⁤least 15 points per game last season.

While Griner’s deliberate​ pace⁣ may differ from the Atlanta ⁢Dream’s preferred playing style, her size and defensive presence‍ will be invaluable assets.⁤ The Dream, known for their strong talent at the wing positions, will likely look to ‍diversify Griner’s offensive repertoire by incorporating more pick-and-rolls and transition plays into their system.

The acquisition of Griner, a beloved figure throughout the league, is a positive move for the Dream, adding both talent and a veteran presence.⁣ While stylistic adjustments might potentially ⁢be needed, the upside of this signing far outweighs any potential downsides.

breaking News: Phoenix Mercury ⁢Acquire Alyssa Thomas in Blockbuster Trade

In a move that shakes up the WNBA landscape, the Phoenix Mercury ⁢have acquired five-time All-Star and two-time‌ All-WNBA first-team forward Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun. The deal, which can be made official at the start of⁢ free agency, ‍sees the Mercury also receive guard ⁢Ty Harris. In return, the Sun receive guard Natasha Cloud, forward Rebecca Allen, and the​ 12th overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft.

Connecticut Sun Opt for Flexibility: A Grade

Though losing a player of Thomas’ caliber is a significant blow, the Sun have positioned themselves for sustained competitiveness.Cloud, arguably the best active WNBA player without an All-Star ​selection,⁤ fills‌ a⁢ crucial need for point guard depth. Her⁢ elite playmaking abilities and ability ‌to elevate her game in⁤ the postseason make her a ‌highly valuable ⁢asset.

Allen provides immediate starting‍ caliber with her shooting and defensive versatility,having enjoyed ⁣a career-best ⁣season ​with Connecticut in 2023. Pairing Cloud and Allen with Marina Mabrey, DiJonai⁢ Carrington, and Brionna ⁤Jones (both free ⁤agents) creates a formidable core, easily capable of reaching the playoffs.

Adding the No. 12 overall pick in the 2025 draft gives the Sun flexibility. If Carrington and/or Jones depart in free agency, the ⁢Sun can pivot towards ‍a rebuild, leveraging their new assets to acquire‌ further young​ talent. Cloud and Allen would be highly sought after by contenders like last year’s finalists, while Carrington would ‍attract interest as a restricted free agent.

Phoenix Mercury Banking⁢ on a ⁤Star: B- Grade

The Mercury have secured a commitment from the most impactful player changing teams this offseason.⁢ Thomas’ arrival will transform their roster. Her versatility will allow her to operate as a​ point guard or fill roles at forward or center. Harris adds valuable shooting prowess, having connected on 42%⁢ of her 3-pointers over the past⁢ two seasons in Connecticut.This duo complements ⁢Kahleah Copper and Sophie Cunningham nicely, suggesting a possibly potent starting lineup. Though, ‌questions remain about Phoenix’s roster construction beyond their star acquisitions.

How will⁢ they fill out the rest of the roster? while retaining the 2027 first-round pick suggests a long-term outlook potentially focusing on the strong draft class featuring JuJu Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo, and Madison Booker, the Mercury’s immediate ​roster needs require addressing.

WNBA⁣ Teams Restructure Lineups in Massive Three-Team Trade

The WNBA landscape underwent a significant shift​ with the completion of a massive three-team trade, impacting the rosters of the Seattle Storm,‍ Las Vegas Aces, and Los Angeles Sparks.

Seattle storm: A

In a ‍shrewd⁣ move,⁣ the ⁣Seattle Storm acquired the No. 2 pick in the 2025 draft from the los Angeles Sparks by trading Jewell Loyd to the Las Vegas Aces. Loyd, who had requested a trade earlier, had seen a decline in performance over the last‌ two ​seasons. The Storm ‍also received‌ center Li Yueru from Los Angeles, providing a promising addition to their frontcourt.

Las Vegas Aces: A+

The reigning WNBA champions, ⁤the Aces, solidified their ​dynasty by​ acquiring All-Star guard jewell Loyd from the Storm. Adding Loyd to a lineup already featuring A’ja Wilson and chelsea Gray strengthens an already formidable championship contender, ‍making them the clear favorites for the upcoming season.

Los Angeles Sparks: B-

The Sparks aim to rebound ⁤from recent struggles by acquiring star guard Kelsey Plum from the Aces. This veteran move signifies the team’s desire ‌to‍ return to playoff contention with immediacy. By‌ trading the No. ⁣2 pick and ‍acquiring Plum,Los‌ Angeles is betting on the 31-year-old’s ability to lead their young core back into the postseason. However, the risk involved in relying on a veteran talent at this stage ‌of her ‍career may cost them valuable draft capital for future growth.

## WNBA Free Agency 2025: ⁢Uncertainty‍ Looms as Superstars Seek Banner⁣ Years

The WNBA offseason landscape is shifting rapidly, with a blockbuster trade already sending shockwaves⁤ through the league.Teams are scrambling to retool their rosters ahead of what ⁣promises to be a engaging 2025 season,⁢ but looming CBA negotiations add a‍ layer of complexity⁤ to free agency.

The trade that sent Kelsey Plum from the Las‍ Vegas Aces to the Los ‌Angeles Sparks for Jewell Loyd highlights the changing dynamics.While the Aces received a much-needed offensive boost ‍with Loyd, the long-term implications of losing Plum remain ‌to be seen.

**CBA Impact on Free Agency**

Free ⁤agency in 2025 could be significantly impacted ‌by the upcoming collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations. With ‍the WNBA experiencing a surge in popularity and a lucrative new media rights deal on the horizon, players ​are anticipating a substantial increase in salaries and the league salary cap.

Consequently, many top ‍free agents are expected to​ sign one-year deals this offseason. This strategy allows them to re-enter ⁣the ‍market in 2026 when the new ⁣CBA is expected to come⁣ into effect, potentially securing more lucrative‌ long-term contracts.

The uncertainty surrounding the new CBA adds another ⁣element to the free agency puzzle. Teams ‍must weigh the present needs of their roster against the potential financial ‍implications of future‍ salary increases.

**A Potential ​Free Agency Frenzy**

The 2026 CBA negotiations could trigger ⁤a major roster shakeup⁢ in 2025. With numerous superstars potentially hitting the market, teams may be aggressive in pursuing top talent, leading to a flurry of blockbuster trades and free agent signings.

This ⁢dynamic‌ could create a thrilling and⁣ unpredictable offseason, with dynasties potentially being challenged and new contenders emerging.

The upcoming WNBA ⁤season is shaping up to be one of the ‌most exciting in recent memory. With CBA negotiations ⁤looming large, free ⁣agency ⁤promises to be a fascinating and potentially transformative period for the league.

WNBA Free ⁢Agency: ‍Top Players to Watch

The WNBA free agency period ​is officially underway,and several star players could ‍be on the move.

Here’s ​a look‌ at some of the key players to⁤ watch:

Satou Sabally (Dallas Wings) ⁢

Forward satou Sabally, a one-time All-WNBA ​first-team selection, has expressed her desire to play for another franchise next season. Though the Dallas ‌Wings have chosen to core Sabally,⁣ any ‍move involving her⁤ would⁣ have to be facilitated through a sign-and-trade deal.

DiJonai‍ Carrington (Connecticut Sun)

Guard ⁢DiJonai Carrington is a restricted free agent, meaning the Connecticut Sun have the right to match any offer sheet she receives from another team. however,due to changes in the ⁤Collective Bargaining ​Agreement,all restricted free⁤ agent offer sheets must be for at least ​two years.As Carrington is unlikely to sign a multi-year​ deal, her situation⁣ mirrors that‌ of a cored ⁣player. She will likely either re-sign with‍ the ​Sun on a one-year contract or be involved in a⁢ sign-and-trade.

Top Impact Players

These are some of the other top WNBA free agents who could significantly impact the league landscape:

1. Breanna Stewart*
2. Alyssa Thomas*
3. Nneka Ogwumike
4. Emma Meesseman
5. Brionna Jones
6. Kelsey ⁣Mitchell*

*Denotes Player option

Las ⁢vegas Aces, New York Liberty Pace​ WNBA Free Agency Frenzy

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) free ⁢agency period⁣ has‌ kicked off with a flurry of activity. Teams have been busy negotiating with potential free agents,⁤ with several high-profile names expected to change⁢ teams. Notable players ​now free to sign with any team ⁢include veteran stars Breanna⁣ Stewart⁤ and Candace Parker.

Among the league’s ⁤most coveted free agents are ‌Breanna Stewart and Candace Parker. Stewart, a ​two-time WNBA champion and ⁤Finals MVP, is widely⁢ considered the league’s top talent and could potentially join the ⁣New York Liberty.Parker,a two-time WNBA MVP and champion,has also garnered interest from multiple teams.Other ‌prominent free agents include Kelsey Plum,​ A’ja Wilson, Satou Sabally, and Marina Mabrey.

**Key Roster​ Moves**

Several teams have already locked up ⁣key players.

The Las Vegas Aces secured the future of their franchise by re-signing reigning MVP A’ja Wilson to a contract extension. The Aces also traded for five-time all-Star guard Chelsea Gray from the​ Los Angeles Sparks.

The New York ‌Liberty made a‍ splash by trading for veteran guard ‍Courtney Vandersloot⁤ from the Chicago Sky.**Understanding Core Designation**

Similar to​ the NFL’s⁤ franchise tag, the WNBA utilizes a ‍”core designation” to retain key players. Teams can designate one unrestricted free agent per year, granting them exclusive ⁣negotiation rights.⁤ These players must be offered a minimum one-year,⁤ fully guaranteed contract at the supermax ⁤salary level.

The Aces​ used the core designation on guard Kelsey Plum, while the Dallas Wings retained Satou Sabally.

**Critically important Dates**

Teams had from January ‍11⁤ to January 20 to​ extend qualifying offers to eligible players, making them restricted or ⁢reserved free agents.The official ⁤negotiation period with unrestricted⁢ free agents commenced on January 21, while contracts can be finalized and announced⁣ starting February 1.

WNBA Free ​Agency and Trades: A Look Ahead

The 2024 WNBA season is over, and ⁢free agency and trading are about to heat up. The league’s landscape is shifting, with several star players set to become free agents in 2025. For teams ​looking to make a championship run or⁣ rebuild ⁢their roster, this offseason ⁤presents both opportunities ‌and challenges.

Top Free Agents in 2025

The 2025 free-agent class​ is headlined by Breanna Stewart, who has already announced her return to the New York Liberty. ‍ Other notable players becoming available include:

• Kelsey Mitchell (Indiana Fever)
• Satou⁤ Sabally (Dallas Wings)
• Kelsey Plum (Las Vegas Aces)
• Alyssa Thomas (connecticut Sun)
• Gabby Williams (Seattle Storm)

Draft Pick Value in Flux

Teams will carefully consider the value of draft picks this ⁣offseason. With the ongoing Collective Bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiation, the salary for first-round picks in the upcoming draft is expected to be lower than in ⁣future years. This could make‌ teams hesitant to trade ‍away their ⁣top picks, as players drafted this year would be locked into lower salaries than rookies selected under the new CBA.

The 2027 draft is already generating buzz,⁣ thanks to a strong class of incoming talent, including USC’s JuJu ‍Watkins, Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo and⁢ Texas’ Madison Booker. Teams might be reluctant to part with future picks. ⁤

Golden State Valkyries: Building a Roster

The ‍Golden State Valkyries, the league’s newest expansion team, are currently building their roster. Only three of their initial 11 expansion draft selections — Stephanie Talbot, Kayla Thornton, and Kate⁣ Martin — are currently under contract. With the most cap space in the league, the Valkyries are well- ​positioned to be active⁢ trade partners, potentially acquiring players on supermax contracts or those seeking short-term⁤ financial ​gains.

WNBA ‍Free Agency Predictions: Stars on the Move?

As the 2024 WNBA ​season draws to a close, speculation about free agency is heating up. Several big names are set ⁢to hit the open market, and their decisions could drastically reshape‌ the league landscape.

Top Free Agents Poised ‌for Big Moves

While official announcements won’t come until the offseason, several prominent players are expected to test the waters and potentially change ⁣teams.

Kelsey Plum, a dynamic guard ‍known for her scoring prowess, is rumored to be ⁤a prime target ‌for the Seattle Storm. The Storm, who recently lost star Breanna Stewart, are looking to rebuild and Plum’s offensive firepower could be a key piece.

Another player drawing significant interest is forward Satou Sabally. Her versatility ‌and all-around game could make her a valuable asset to several contenders, with the New York Liberty emerging as a potential suitor.

The WNBA free agency period is shaping up ​to be⁣ a pivotal moment ‌for the league, with ⁤several high-profile players potentially changing ⁤teams‍ and reshaping the⁤ competitive ⁣landscape. Here’s a breakdown of ⁤the key points and players to watch:

WNBA Free Agency Frenzy: What You Need to ‍Know

The WNBA offseason ⁤is a time of⁢ excitement ‌and uncertainty, as teams reshape their rosters through free ‌agency and trades. With several superstar players ‌hitting the open market, the 2025 free agency period promises to ⁢be one⁤ of the most transformative in league history. ⁣

CBA Adds ​Another Element ⁤to the Puzzle

The upcoming Collective Bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations could significantly impact free agency. Teams must ⁤weigh ⁢the present needs of their roster against the ​potential financial implications of future salary increases.

A Potential Free Agency Frenzy

The 2026 CBA negotiations could trigger a major roster shakeup in 2025. With numerous superstars potentially⁣ hitting⁣ the market, teams may be aggressive in pursuing top ⁣talent, leading to⁢ a flurry⁣ of blockbuster trades ‍and free agent signings.

This dynamic could create a⁢ thrilling and unpredictable ‍offseason, with dynasties potentially being challenged and new contenders ⁢emerging.

The upcoming WNBA season⁤ is shaping up to be one of the⁢ most exciting in recent‍ memory. With CBA negotiations ⁤looming large,free agency promises to be⁣ a fascinating and potentially transformative period for the league.

WNBA Free⁣ Agency: Top Players to Watch

The⁢ WNBA‍ free agency period is officially ​underway, and⁣ several star players could be on the move.

Satou Sabally (Dallas Wings)

Forward Satou Sabally, a one-time All-WNBA first-team selection, has expressed her desire to play for another franchise next season. Though the Dallas Wings have chosen to core Sabally, any move involving her woudl have to be ‌facilitated through a​ sign-and-trade deal.

DiJonai Carrington (Connecticut ‌Sun)

Guard DiJonai ​Carrington is ​a restricted free agent, meaning the Connecticut Sun have the right to match any offer sheet⁤ she receives from another team.⁢ However,due ⁣to changes ⁣in the Collective Bargaining Agreement,all restricted free agent offer‌ sheets must be for at least two‌ years. As‍ Carrington is unlikely to⁣ sign a ⁢multi-year ⁤deal, ​her situation mirrors that of​ a cored player. She will likely either re-sign with the Sun on a one-year contract or be involved in a sign-and-trade.

Top Impact ⁤Players

These are ​some of the other ​top WNBA free agents​ who could significantly impact the league landscape:

• Breanna Stewart*
• Alyssa Thomas*
• Nneka Ogwumike
• Emma Meesseman
• Brionna Jones
• Kelsey⁢ Mitchell*

*Denotes​ Player option

Las Vegas ​Aces, ‍New York Liberty Pace WNBA Free Agency ‍Frenzy

The Women’s⁤ National⁤ basketball Association (WNBA) free agency period has kicked off‌ with a flurry of activity.⁢ Teams ‍have been busy negotiating with potential free agents, with ⁤several high-profile names expected⁣ to change teams.Notable players now free⁤ to sign with any team include veteran stars Breanna Stewart and Candace Parker.

Among the league’s‍ most⁢ coveted free agents are Breanna Stewart and Candace ‍Parker. Stewart,⁣ a two-time WNBA champion and Finals ‍MVP, is widely‌ considered the league’s top talent and could potentially join the new York Liberty.Parker, a two-time WNBA MVP and champion, has also garnered interest from multiple teams. Other prominent ‍free agents include Kelsey Plum, A’ja Wilson, Satou Sabally, and ​Marina Mabrey.

Key Roster Moves

Several teams have already locked up key players.

The Las Vegas aces secured the future of their franchise ⁤by re-signing reigning MVP A’ja Wilson to a contract extension. The Aces also ⁤traded for five-time All-Star guard Chelsea Gray ⁢from the‍ Los angeles Sparks.

The New⁣ York Liberty​ made a splash by trading for veteran guard Courtney⁢ Vandersloot from the Chicago Sky.

Understanding Core ​Designation

Similar to ‌the NFL’s franchise tag,the WNBA utilizes⁣ a “core designation” to retain key players. Teams can designate one ‌unrestricted⁤ free agent per year, granting them exclusive negotiation ⁢rights. These players must be offered a minimum one-year, fully guaranteed⁣ contract ​at the⁢ supermax salary⁢ level.

The Aces used the core designation on guard kelsey⁢ Plum, ⁢while the Dallas Wings retained Satou Sabally.

Critically critically important Dates

Teams had from January 11 to January 20 to extend qualifying offers‍ to eligible players, ​making⁤ them restricted ​or reserved free agents. the official⁣ negotiation ​period with unrestricted free agents commenced on January 21, while contracts can be finalized and announced​ starting February 1.

WNBA Free Agency and Trades: ⁤A Look Ahead

The 2024 WNBA season is over, and free agency and‌ trading are about to heat up. The league’s landscape⁢ is⁤ shifting, with several star players set ‍to become free ​agents in 2025. For‌ teams looking to make a championship‌ run or ‌rebuild their roster, this offseason presents both opportunities and challenges.

Top Free Agents in 2025

The ‌2025​ free-agent class is headlined by Breanna Stewart, who‍ has already announced her return ‍to the New ‌York Liberty. Other notable players‍ becoming available include:

• Kelsey Mitchell‍ (Indiana⁤ Fever)
• Satou Sabally (Dallas Wings)
• Kelsey Plum (Las Vegas Aces)
• Alyssa Thomas (Connecticut Sun)
• Gabby Williams (seattle Storm)

Draft Pick Value in Flux

Teams will carefully ⁢consider the value of draft ​picks this offseason. With the ​ongoing Collective Bargaining⁤ agreement (CBA) negotiation, the salary for first-round picks‌ in the⁢ upcoming draft is expected to be lower than in future years. This could make ⁢teams hesitant to ‌trade away ​their top picks, as players drafted this year would be ⁤locked into lower salaries⁣ than rookies selected under the new CBA.

The‌ 2027 draft is ⁤already generating buzz, thanks⁢ to ⁢a strong class of incoming ⁣talent, including⁣ USC’s ‍JuJu ⁤Watkins, Notre​ Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo, and Texas’ Madison Booker.Teams might be⁣ reluctant to part with future picks.

Golden State Valkyries: Building⁤ a Roster

The Golden ⁣State ‌Valkyries, the league’s newest expansion team, are‌ currently building‌ their⁢ roster. Only three of their ​initial 11 expansion draft selections — Stephanie Talbot, Kayla Thornton, and‌ Kate Martin — are currently under contract. With the most cap⁢ space in the league, the Valkyries are well-positioned‍ to be active trade partners, potentially acquiring players on supermax contracts or those seeking short-term financial gains.

WNBA Free Agency Predictions: Stars on the Move?

As the 2024 WNBA‍ season draws to a ‍close, speculation about free agency is heating up. Several⁢ big names are set to hit the ⁣open market, and⁤ their decisions could drastically reshape the league landscape.

Top Free Agents Poised for Big Moves

While official​ announcements‍ won’t come until the offseason, several prominent players are expected to test the waters and potentially change teams.⁢

Kelsey Plum,‌ a dynamic ⁣guard known for her scoring prowess, ‍is rumored to be⁢ a prime target for the Seattle Storm. The Storm, who recently lost star Breanna Stewart, are looking to rebuild and Plum’s⁣ offensive firepower could ‌be a key piece.

Another player ⁤drawing important interest is forward Satou‌ Sabally.Her versatility ⁢and all-around game could make her⁣ a valuable asset to several⁤ contenders, with the New York Liberty emerging as a potential suitor.

WNBA Free Agency Q&A

Q: When can teams officially start negotiating with free agents?​

A: The official negotiation period for unrestricted ‌free agents began⁣ on January 21.

Q: What does⁤ it mean when a ​player is​ “cored”‌ by a team?

A: Being “cored” means a ⁣team has ⁢designated that player as their one franchise player they can retain, granting them exclusive negotiating rights. The player must be ​offered a minimum ​one-year,fully guaranteed contract at the supermax salary ‌level.

Q: Which rookie class is generating the most excitement⁤ right‍ now?

A: The ⁢2027 draft class is already ⁤generating major buzz, thanks to ‌top prospects like JuJu‍ Watkins,⁣ Hannah Hidalgo, and Madison Booker.

Stay tuned as the WNBA offseason unfolds! With blockbuster ​trades and ⁣free agent ‍signings on‍ the horizon, it’s sure to be an exciting time for fans.