For as much happened in the WNBA and women’s professional basketball in 2024, 2025 loomed throughout the year, presaging intriguing possibilities that demanded attention.
In addition to hints of forthcoming WNBA chaos—from expansion to coaching changes to CBA negotiations to a frothy free agency period—Swish Appeal anticipated Unrivaled’s arrival, another eye-popping draft class and more.
Long-awaited expansion arrives
The Tempo of WNBA expansion increased in 2024. The Golden State Valkyries went from idea to reality, culminating with the league’s first expansion draft since 2008.
Next up is the Toronto Tempo, ready to debut in 2026 along with the yet-to-be-branded Portland franchise.
Coaching carousel spins
Urgency infected WNBA franchises in 2024, a reflection of how the league’s growth encouraged ownership groups to take bigger, bolder swings. Following the 2024 regular season, seven…