Welcome to the Sideline Sisters midseason grades! We’re diving into the first half of the WNBA season to evaluate how each team has performed so far. The Golden State Valkyrie have gained attention with their solid play, while the Las Vegas Ace are striving to reclaim their dominant status. Some teams are eyeing playoff spots, whereas others seem headed for a tough year. We’re laying it all out to analyze the current WNBA landscape.
Additionally, we’ve released new Sideline Sisters Podcast episodes that delve deeper into these performances. You can listen to them on any streaming platform and catch highlights from events like Indy’s All-Star Weekend.
Disclaimer: The grades are an average of the author’s personal ratings and only reflect team performance through the first half of the 2025 season. For more detailed insight, check out the Sideline Sisters podcast.
Struggles in the Season
Dallas Wings: D
The Dallas Wings face a tough year, struggling with injuries to key players such as Thai Harris, Dihonai Carrington, Alike Ogunboir, and Maddi Sigalist. Rookie Page Bueker shines, but the team’s lack of health and coordination, especially under new head coach Chris Cochrane, has held them back. With a 2025 season likely headed for the draft lottery, the focus is on supporting Page’s Rookie of the Year chase.
Connecticut Sun: D-
The Connecticut Sun have had a difficult 2025, winning only three games by midseason. Despite Tina Charles’s milestone as the league’s second-highest scorer, overall team execution has faltered. Injuries and a first-year coach led to struggles similar to Dallas, with hopes pinned on rookies Anesa Moreau and Sanya Rivers and a future rebuild strategy.
Los Angeles Sparks: D
The Sparks showed promise with rookies Ricket Jackson and Cam Brink and the addition of Kelsey Plum, but injuries and defensive weaknesses have harmed results. Cam Brink’s pending return and offensive consistency from Plum, Stevens, and Humvee offer hope, but head coach Lynn Roberts faces challenges with team cohesion and defensive lapses.
Chicago Sky: D
After trading Ariel Atkins and losing veteran Courtney Vandersloot to injury, Chicago struggles with scoring depth and rotation decisions under rookie head coach Tyler Marsh. The team heavily relies on stars like Angel Reese and Atkins, but inconsistent guard play and injury woes undermine their chances.
Fighting for the 8th Seed
Golden State Valkyrie: C
Golden State surprises with strong defense and a playoff push, led by emerging star Kayla Thornton and defensive anchor Veronica Burton. Despite tough losses to top teams, this group, coached by Natalie Nakaze, shows resilience and is a strong contender for the final postseason spot.
Washington Mystics: C
Washington started strong with All-Star rookies Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron and an impactful Shakira Austin. Despite a .500 record and tough competition, they lack consistent bench production but have the grit to make a postseason run if their role players step up.
Middle of the Pack
Las Vegas Ace: C+
The Ace have cooled off compared to past championship years, losing key players like Kelsey Plum and others in free agency. Though A’ja Wilson leads impressively, the bench is inconsistent, and the team lacks the dominant aura they once had, making a deep playoff run uncertain.
Indiana Fever: C+
Injuries have challenged Indiana, particularly the absence of Kate Rinklerk. Strong performances from Aari McDonald, Lexie Hull, and All-Star Aliya Boston keep them afloat, but their postseason success depends on maintaining health and cohesiveness.
Top Performers
Phoenix Mercury: A-
Phoenix made major offseason acquisitions with Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabury, blending veteran talent with standout rookies like Monique Kuakoamakani. Their strong defense and efficient offense place them among the league’s elite, and with injured stars returning soon, they’re a team to fear.
Atlanta Dream: B
Atlanta shines under head coach Carl Smesco’s philosophy, with Alisha Gray and Rhyne Howard leading the offensive charge and rookie Te Hina Paopao making a splash. Their effective mix of offense and defense, highlighted by big players Brittney Griner and Briona Jones, positions them well for continued success.
Seattle Storm: B
Seattle boasts three All-Stars and a solid 14-9 record but faces challenges with consistency. With strong leadership from Diggins and Ogwumike and promising rookie Dominik Malonga, they have the pieces to make a strong second-half run if they maintain focus.
Dean’s List
Minnesota Lynx: A+
Minnesota dominates with a 20-4 record, boasting MVP candidates and strong team depth. Coach Cheryl Reeve has successfully guided a talented roster including Nafisa Collier, Kayla McBride, and Courtney Williams to sustained success, making the Lynx clear championship favorites.
New York Liberty: A-
New York is on track for another playoff run, led by All-Star Breanna Stewart. The team benefits from strong backcourt efforts and a deep bench, along with the potential signing of Euro star Emma Meesseman, making them a formidable contender.
All stats accurate as of July 17, courtesy of wnba.com.
Fan Take:
This midseason review highlights the evolving dynamics of the WNBA, showcasing a blend of rising teams and those rebuilding through adversity. For WNBA fans, it underscores the excitement and unpredictability of the league, promising an intense and captivating second half of the season that could redefine the future of women’s basketball.
