When WNBA expansion was discussed in previous years, it was all about wanting more: more cities, more roster spots, and more opportunities for players. For the three expansion teams over the last two seasons, those desires have been fulfilled, demonstrating the depth of the league.
The Golden State Valkyries proved last year that former role players could become stars. Veronica Burton, waived by the Dallas Wings in 2024, won Most Improved Player, while Kayla Thornton earned her first All-Star selection after averaging just 5.5 points with the New York Liberty. Both helped the Valkyries become the first expansion team to reach the playoffs in their debut season.
This season, the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo are repeating that success. Megan Gustafson, a former college star who averaged 4.6 points in her first seven professional seasons, signed a two-year, $1.025m contract with Portland and is playing the best basketball of her career. On Saturday, she scored 22 points on 8-for-8 shooting in a 100-84 win over the Indiana Fever. 'We're a bunch of overlooked players... I've never really been respected as a basketball player until I've gotten here,' Gustafson said emotionally after the game.
The refreshed collective bargaining agreement has also attracted top international talent. Players like Pauline Astier (France) for the Liberty, Jovana Nogic (Serbia) for the Mercury—shooting 50.9% from three—and Justė Jocytė (Lithuania), the No.5 draft pick for the Valkyries, are making an impact. Additionally, the addition of two developmental spots per roster allows young players to ease into the league without counting against the salary cap.
Meanwhile, the Phoenix Mercury are in a six-game slump, sitting last in the standings at 2-8. Despite Alyssa Thomas nearly averaging a triple-double, the team has struggled since reaching the 2025 finals. The Atlanta Dream, retooled after being eliminated by an injury-depleted Fever team last season, are seeking revenge.
