3 Things to Watch for Ahead of the WNBA Season

With the start of the WNBA season nearing, there are plenty of things to look forward to. Both teams and individual players have thrilling storylines to look out for. These storylines will make the WNBA season all the more exciting and intriguing. Let’s delve into why these three things draw our attention ahead of the start of the WNBA season.

3 Things to Watch for Ahead of the WNBA Season

Caitlin Clark’s Game

Caitlin Clark was one of the main talking points of the WNBA season last year. In year one, she averaged 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 8.4 assists en route to winning Rookie of the Year. After the Olympic break, her game went up another level. Her points per game improved from 17.1 points to 23.1 points. It is scary to think what she can do with a break this offseason, as she did not participate in Unrivaled this year. What she did in her rookie season won’t surprise many people, as she is known for her exceptional scoring ability and court vision. If the 23-year-old goes up another level, there is no reason why she can’t compete with A’ja Wilson and Napheesa Collier for league MVP. Injuries and complacency could only stop her from reaching another level.

New York Liberty’s Championship Defense

The New York Liberty won the WNBA Finals last year, defeating the Minnesota Lynx en route to their franchise’s first title. They got revenge on the team that defeated them 94-89 in the Commissioners Cup final. Winning the championship again this year will be difficult, as several teams have improved this offseason, including the Atlanta Dream, Indiana Fever, and Phoenix Mercury. Those teams will have extra motivation to win against the New York Liberty, but none will have more than the Lynx, who lost to them controversially last season. The only question is how long it will take for the players to adapt to their new franchises. The New York Liberty has continuity on their side as they have retained the team that had a great season last year. Undoubtedly, the trio of Sabrina Ionescu, Breanna Stewart, and Jonquel Jones, along with their playoff experience, makes the Liberty clear title contenders.

Paige Bueckers’ Rookie Season

No. 1 overall pick Paige Bueckers will be a star from day one. Before tearing her ACL, she was seen as the Caitlin Clark before Caitlin Clark. She would have been drafted last year if she hadn’t decided to stay in college for another year. In her final year of college basketball, she averaged 19.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. She has numerous qualities that will make her succeed in the WNBA. The former UConn Huskies Guard can read ball screens well and has a solid midrange game. The 23-year-old can also create for herself and her teammates. Ultimately, Bueckers has several offensive weapons that will make her a difficult matchup for any defender in the league. Watching another young star develop will be incredibly exciting. Alongside Arike Ogunbowale, the Dallas Wings will have a dynamic backcourt and could be a sneaky competitive team.

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