How will the anticipation of a new CBA impact WNBA free agency?

WNBA free agency in 2025 will focus on how general managers can maximize short-term leases.

There won’t be time for rebuilds or long-term roster projects with the collective bargaining agreement expiring in October. Most free agents this year are expected to sign one-year contracts in anticipation of a new agreement by 2026, which is likely to offer higher salaries and better long-term benefits.

General managers will have to focus on selling the present to the league’s top free agents. Teams like the Liberty, Lynx, Aces, and Fever, who have realistic title expectations, have an advantage when it comes to making pitches. The Valkyries, the league’s first expansion team since 2008, may not be title contenders, but they can offer a top-notch player experience.

The Mercury can quickly turn things around with the right direction and the right free-agent signings, especially if Diana Taurasi returns for her 21st season. Last year, injuries led to a disappointing finish for the Mercury despite having one of the best rosters in the league.

The Storm are navigating free agency amid investigations into their coaching staff and a trade request from their franchise player, Jewell Loyd.

The remaining six teams face challenges in recruiting free agents due to unstable rosters and new coaches. Unlike the Fever, who hired coach Stephanie White this offseason, these teams don’t have a strong case for immediate success to attract free agents.

Free agency officially begins on January 11, with qualifying offers going out to restricted free agents and core tags being put on unrestricted players.

Top free agents like Kelsey Plum, Satou Sabally, Kelsey Mitchell, and Alyssa Thomas will likely receive core tags. Breanna Stewart, an unrestricted free agent, is expected to re-sign with the Liberty.

In Las Vegas, there’s a sense of change coming for the Aces, with the “core four” potentially breaking up. Potential sign-and-trade deals could shake up the roster with players like Plum and Loyd possibly on the move.

Teams will be vying for Sabally, with the Sky having a shot due to draft assets. The Sky will also extend qualifying offers to restricted free agents Dana Evans, Chennedy Carter, and Michaela Onyenwere.

The Sky’s free agency options are intriguing, especially considering the development of young stars in their frontcourt. Experienced players like Courtney Vandersloot could be key additions for teams looking to contend, like the Lynx.

Expect the Liberty, Lynx, Aces, and Fever to be the frontrunners in free agency as they target the top talent in the league.