Biggest Surprises and Overreactions From the First Week of the WNBA Season

Key Points:

• The Minnesota Lynx have been a surprising standout early in the WNBA season, displaying one of the league's most efficient offenses despite missing key players, with rookies and veterans alike contributing strongly.
• The Golden State Valkyries have exceeded expectations with new additions like Gabby Williams enhancing both their defense and offense, making them more competitive than initially predicted.
• New York Liberty’s backcourt, especially Marine Johannès and rookie Pauline Astier, has impressed with confident, high-scoring performances despite the absence of Sabrina Ionescu.
• Chicago Sky have started the season strong with a 2–0 record, showing promise through dominant performances by Kamilla Cardoso and contributions from new and veteran players.
• Early season highlights include Sarah Ashlee Barker’s buzzer-beater for the Chicago Fire, Olivia Miles’ fearless play and leadership for the Lynx, and a thrilling Wings-Fever game featuring Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark.
• Overreactions include Olivia Miles as the clear frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, Atlanta Dream’s potential to reach the Finals bolstered by Angel Reese, and Caitlin Clark emerging as a strong MVP contender despite early shooting struggles.