Spotlight on the Stars: Key Players to Follow in the WNBA This Season
The 2024 WNBA season has tipped off with electrifying energy, showcasing a new era of talent poised to dominate the league. Stars like Angel Reese (Chicago Sky) and Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx) headline a roster of players set to deliver breakout performances, while veterans like A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces) continue to raise the bar. With record-breaking viewership and expanded media coverage, this season promises to redefine women’s basketball. Here’s a deep dive into the players and storylines captivating fans nationwide.
Rising Stars: Angel Reese and the Next Generation
Rookie sensation Angel Reese has already made waves, averaging a double-double in her first five games with the Chicago Sky. The LSU alum, known for her relentless rebounding and defensive prowess, is proving she can transition seamlessly to the pros. “Angel’s intensity is infectious,” says Sky head coach Teresa Weatherspoon. “She’s not just a rebounder—she’s a leader who elevates everyone around her.”
Meanwhile, Napheesa Collier has emerged as the Lynx’s cornerstone, averaging 22.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Her versatility—scoring, defending, and facilitating—makes her a dark-horse MVP candidate. “Phee’s basketball IQ is off the charts,” notes ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo. “She’s the complete package, and this could be her career-defining season.”
Veterans Dominating the Court
While young stars shine, established players like A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart remain unstoppable. Wilson, the two-time MVP, leads the Aces with 23.7 points and 11.2 rebounds per game, anchoring the league’s top defense. Stewart, meanwhile, continues to be the Storm’s offensive engine, dropping 21.9 points nightly while shooting 45% from three.
- A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces): 23.7 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 2.8 BPG
- Breanna Stewart (Seattle Storm): 21.9 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 3.1 APG
- Courtney Vandersloot (New York Liberty): 12.5 PPG, 8.7 APG, league-leading playmaking
Under-the-Radar Players to Watch
Beyond the headlines, talents like Atlanta Dream’s Rhyne Howard and Dallas Wings’ Arike Ogunbowale are turning heads. Howard, in her third season, is averaging 19.8 points with a 40% three-point clip, while Ogunbowale’s clutch gene (25.4 PPG) keeps the Wings in playoff contention. “These players are the heartbeat of their teams,” says The Athletic’s Sabreena Merchant. “They don’t always get the spotlight, but they’re essential to the league’s growth.”
The Impact of Expanded Media Coverage
This season, the WNBA’s new media deals with ESPN, Amazon Prime, and Ion Television have brought unprecedented exposure. Opening-week games drew 1.3 million viewers—a 21% increase from 2023—with social media engagement skyrocketing. “Fans are finally seeing what we’ve known for years: This league is must-watch TV,” says WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
What’s Next for the WNBA?
As the season progresses, rivalries like Aces-Liberty and individual award races (MVP, Rookie of the Year) will take center stage. With the Paris Olympics looming, players are also vying for Team USA spots, adding another layer of intensity. For fans, the message is clear: Tune in now or miss history in the making.
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