The newly announced 2025 WNBA schedule will include some notable games and a number of intriguing questions that may not be answered until the season begins.
First, however, the expansion draft for the newly formed Golden State Valkyries will take place on ESPN on Friday, Dec. 6 at 6:30 PM EST. At that time Golden State will; select one player from each team that has not been protected. As the protected players have not been announced, there has been a great deal of speculation, but that’s all it is – speculation. Depending upon who is taken, some rosters may see some significant changes and may be more inclined to look at free agency more seriously.
Of course, when the draft for the 2025 season comes around, it will have its own level of speculation. The popular opinion is that UConn standout Paige Bueckers will be the number one pick, but even that does not seem to be a given. Until free agency begins, we won’t really know what teams will be looking for in the draft, where unrestricted free agents might go, and probably a few surprises.
Minnesota Came Close to a WNBA Championship Last Season
The Minnesota Lynx came within one play of a fifth championship. How much re-tooling the Lynx does will depend upon who is chosen by the Valkyries, who leaves in free agency, and possible trades. I think we can assume that Napheesa Collier, Kayla McBride, Courtney Williams, Alanna Smith, and Bridget Carleton will all be protected. While some pundits have included Diamond Miller in the six, I am not so sure.
The 2025 WNBA Schedule is LIVE ?️
— WNBA (@WNBA) December 2, 2024
Browse through key matchups that will shape the upcoming szn, such as recent Finals rematches and battles between teams with No. 1 overall draft picks, and our annual Commissioner’s Cup games.
Check it all out on https://t.co/HF5BTljYz4 pic.twitter.com/a4S79NIP1Q
Dorka Juhász has made significant improvements from her rookie season to last year. Miller has not had as many opportunities due to a variety of injuries, so it is possible that Miller might not be protected. Given all that, here are the games of note this season for Minnesota:
Friday, May 16: Minnesota at Dallas
This game might very likely be the debut of No. 1 draft pick Bueckers if the Wings select her. Although Bueckers still has one year of eligibility left at UConn, it seems unlikely that she will return. Much like Caitlin Clark, all eyes will be on Bueckers as she enters the WNBA. It will also mark a meeting of two outstanding UConn athletes, Bueckers and Collier. These teams meet again on May 21 at Target Center. Additionally, it will be something of a homecoming for Bueckers (should she be a Wing).
Sunday, June 1: Minnesota at Golden State Valkyries
The Lynx play their first game against the newly formed Golden State Valkyries. Until the team is set for the Valkyries, nothing is known. It will be enjoyable for Lynx fans to get their first look at the W’s newest squad.
Tuesday, June 17: Las Vegas Aces at Minnesota
In a Commissioner’s Cup game, the Lynx will look to repeat the success they enjoyed against Las Vegas last year and vie for another Cup championship. Kelsey Plum is an unrestricted free agent this year, and as yet whether Plum returns to the Aces or not is unknown.
Wednesday, July 30: New York Liberty at Minnesota
In their first rematch of the 2024 titles series, the Lynx will be looking to make a statement. The stinging loss to New York in a very competitive series will most likely still be a sore spot, and Minnesota will come out gunning for a win. It will also be interesting to see what if any changes are made to the New York line-up. Minnesota has two home and two away games against the Liberty. Last season the Lynx fared well against the Liberty and will be looking for a repeat.
Friday August 22 and Sunday, August 24: Minnesota at Indiana/Indiana at Minnesota
I think we can safely say Clarkmania will be alive and well at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Let’s see if last year’s hysteria carries over to this season at Target Center.
With plenty of other games worth watching, such as the Chicago/Indiana “rivalry,” the Atlanta/Los Angeles battle of the new coaches, and in general, how the Las Vegas Aces will fare after not making it to the 2024 Finals. Will the Liberty be able to repeat? How will all the coaches do in their respective first seasons? Will Cameron Brink return for the Sparks? What rookies will make an immediate impact? And will Minnesota achieve its fifth WNBA title? A guaranteed exciting season to come.
And that, my friends, as they say, is that.’ — Martin Ruben.
Follow Beyond Women’s Sports for more from the world of sports.
