The 2025 free agency class in the WNBA is shaping up to be one of the starriest free agency classes in the league’s history. The competitive landscape could be dramatically reshaped by the offseason that includes the biggest stars swapping teams. This includes Dallas Wings standout Satou Sabally and Las Vegas Aces icon Kelsey Plum among others.

Adding more to the interest is that the transitions come at a time when the league is on the brink of the CBA amendment while also having undergone an expansion, with more to come. Some are aiming to build a foundation while others find focusing on the upcoming season to be the only option. As January 21st nears, here’s what’s transpiring.

What’s new in WNBA’s 2025 Free Agency?

With only one-year contracts being signed ahead of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), this year’s free agency period feels more like an appetizer than the main course. Elite players such as Breanna Stewart and Nneka Ogwumike are unlikely to leave their teams. But that won’t stop blockbuster moves and unexpected trades from grabbing headlines. 

1. Las Vegas Aces’ Kelsey Plum,who won two back-to-back championships is the first player in the list. Even though Plum’s production has gone down, she continues to be a prime target, with the Aces planning on signing her and trading her, possibly to Chicago.
2. Kelsey Mitchell‘s future with the Indiana Fever is another making the noise. After her best season yet, the franchise has repeatedly expressed interest in bringing her back on board as they look to build a team around Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston. The ‘three-headed monster’ as they were dubbed, could work well for the Fever but the team’s ability to convince her to re-sign is still in the air.
3. Satou Sabally has already announced her exit from the Dallas Wings. Given backup forward Temi Fagbenle’s move to Golden State Valkyries and NaLyssa Smith’s not-so-eventful 2024 season, Sabally could make for a solid trade.
4. Alyssa Thomas, pivotal to the Connecticut Sun’s success, might explore a sign-and-trade. Her hints at discontent imply that the Sun may have issues keeping her. 
5. Emma Meesseman could make a WNBA return after prioritizing international play. If so, the Connecticut Sun, now coached by her Belgian national team coach, appears to be her likely destination.
6. Gabby Williams will be a hot commodity as a defender after an impressive year with the Seattle Storm and the national team. But don’t expect her to re-sign with the Sky.
7. Chicago Sky’s former top point guard, Courtney Vandersloot, wants to be with a team that will maximize her contributions. This would include her playmaking as well as over a decade of experience.
8. Stewart and Ogwumike are likely to remain with their teams, and Brittney Griner’s commitment to the Phoenix Mercury means she will likely finish her career there.

This free agency period is expected to witness a lot of action. And the possibility of a new look of the league. With Unrivaled’s better pay and equity for players, WNBA has something to contend with. Players now have bargaining power and can influence the W possibly to reconsider its structure.

What more to watch out for this free free agency

With a significant cap space — the Indiana Fever sits as one of the biggest players this offseason. Pairing a star with Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston who could establish a dynasty. Likewise, teams such as Chicago Sky and Phoenix Mercury are in a position to make some big moves.

Core designations may force teams to look to make trades, especially with players like Sabally. Dallas Wings could get additional resources instead of giving her away.

Diana Taurasi, Elena Delle Donne, face career defining choices. That means their moves will not only affect their teams but could set the tone for the future of the WNBA. Helping younger players and changing team strategy.

The anticipation is high as we get closer to January 21. The mix of high profile names, emerging leagues and strategic trades will make the WNBA’s 2025 free agency a must see for fans. Whether it’s the Indiana Fever’s splash with their big contract or a surprise move by a veteran. This offseason will determine the stage for the league’s continued evolution.