After historic numbers and record-breaking performances last season, this 2025 WNBA season preview highlights a league ready to take another leap. The WNBA is about to kick off with huge momentum. The league is expected to continue its massive growth in viewership and ticket sales.
In this post, I’ll break down the rise in fan engagement, spotlight rising stars in the league, and highlight some key matchups and narratives to watch this season.
2025 WNBA Season Viewership Surge
The popularity of the WNBA has skyrocketed, with StubHub reporting a 2.5x year-over-year increase in ticket sales. Notably, games featuring Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever are consistently sold out, with teams moving games to NBA arenas to meet demand. Last year’s WNBA Finals drew 3.3 million viewers—the league’s highest mark in over 25 years. Because of this momentum, those numbers are expected to climb even higher in 2025.
Rising Stars to Watch in the 2025 WNBA Season Preview
Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever)
After a historic rookie campaign in 2024—earning Rookie of the Year and leading Indiana to its first playoff appearance since 2016—Clark returns as the face of the league. With her elite shooting and playmaking, expect her to compete for MVP honors in just her second year.
Paige Bueckers (Dallas Wings)
Selected as the #1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Bueckers enters the league with sky-high expectations. A fan favorite with incredible court vision and leadership, she’s ready to help turn around a struggling Wings squad.
Angel Reese (Chicago Sky)
After an up-and-down rookie season and heavy criticism on social media, Reese spent the offseason grinding in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league—especially working on her jumper. She remains a double-double machine and will play a critical role in the Sky’s playoff hopes this season.
Key Matchups and Storylines
Indiana Fever vs. Brazil National Team
Clark’s first preseason game back at Carver-Hawkeye Arena will be emotional and electric. As a result, tickets have already sold out. It’s the court where she became college basketball’s all-time leading scorer, and the energy is sure to be unreal.
Chicago Sky vs. Indiana Fever – May 17
The Sky open their season against the Fever in what’s expected to be a marquee showdown. With Caitlin Clark returning and Hailey Van Lith joining Chicago’s roster, this early-season clash could set the tone for the Eastern Conference.
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