WNBA Season Tip-Off
Lead Sports Editor Will Lyons prepares fans for a great season of WNBA hoops. Lots of player movement and storylines make this a must watch season.
Hoops fans rejoice, we have basketball to watch! The WNBA is back after an off-season filled with noteworthy player movement.
Stars Find New Homes
The balance of power in the league has shifted as star players Courtney Vandersloot, Breana Stewart and Jonquel Jones team up on the New York Liberty. The reigning champion Las Vegas Aces bring back most of their roster from last season and also signed one of the most accomplished hoopers of our time, two-time MVP and two-time champion Candace Parker. Pairing the real CP3 with the reigning MVP and defensive player of the year A’ja Wilson — doesn’t even feel legal. These two teams are on a crash course for the Finals, barring injury and the hoops world looks forward to watching them battle on the court.
The Return of BG
While Vegas and NY are two title favorites, the league has other notable storylines and teams worth watching. The first story-line is the return of Brittney Griner. The seven-time All-Star and champion finally regained her freedom after being detained in Russia. Seeing Griner play basketball again is a bonus, as the real prize is her being reunited with her loved ones back on U.S. soil.
Atlanta’s Star Tandem
After an impressive rookie season by number one overall pick Rhyne Howard, the Atlanta Dream feel the future is now. The front office made a major play towards contention by pairing the versatile Howard with one of the best wings in the league. Allisha Gray’s acquisition gives Atlanta two versatile players that can score with the best of them, and also lock up on defense. Returning center Cheyenne Parker and fiery guards Aari McDonald and AD Durr should have the Dream making a playoff push this season.
Rookie Class
The rookie class is filled with talented women that are ready to make their mark at the next level. Top overall pick Aliyah Boston (Indiana Fever) headlines the class after a distinguished career at the University of South Carolina. The gifted post player brings winning pedigree and the ability to anchor the paint on both ends.
Versatile G/F Diamond Miller (Minnesota Lynx) is another player to watch as her athleticism and skill set will allow her to contribute from day one. The class is filled with players bringing huge followings and tremendous basketball acumen to an already competitive league.
Other Rookies to Watch
Zia Cooke, Los Angeles Sparks — An electric scorer that should make an impact in Los Angeles. Zia is an extremely shifty player that should garner plenty fanfare. Her growth as a playmaker and winning background should give the franchise a needed boost.
Jordan Horston, Seattle Storm — Another player that can really put her mark on a game with her ability to score the ball. Her athleticism should give Seattle fans something to look forward to as they move on from the Sue Bird — Breanna Stewart era.
Haley Jones, Atlanta Dream — Jones is what I refer to as a Swiss army knife type of player. She can give you production in multiple areas without being great in any particular area. Her draft day fall ends up being a gift for Atlanta as they land a third versatile wing.
