The WNBA's 30th season is off to a hot start, and we are already two weeks in. In this edition, I will break down my power rankings from Friday, May 8, to Friday, May 22. All 15 teams are ranked, but which teams are rising and which are falling?
There was a period of uncertainty for months, but the WNBPA and WNBA eventually agreed to a historic collective bargaining agreement. Several players are now earning seven-figure salaries, and matchups are being broadcast across various networks under the brand-new $2.2 billion media rights deal.
Rebel jerseys have been released, and the W continues to honor its 30th season with throwback jerseys and nostalgia from the inaugural season in 1997.
Some teams are just five to six games into the season, but the stats and trends are already taking shape. The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire are the newest expansion teams. It's been a tough stretch for the "no one watches women's sports" crowd, as the Fire set a WNBA attendance record with 19,335 fans at the season opener against the Chicago Sky.
Attendance has been a main discussion, as the Las Vegas Aces and Atlanta Dream matchup garnered the most-watched WNBA Sunday Game ever in May, averaging 1.24 million viewers on NBC and Peacock.
can't wait to see you all again tomorrow pic.twitter.com/KIJPWVlXN5
— Portland Fire (@theportlandfire) May 13, 2026
Thanks to Across the Timeline, the Valkyries once again lead in attendance, averaging 18,064 fans. Following them is the Dream, who got a glimpse of what life could look like at State Farm Arena. Powered by Seafoam green and Ellie, the New York Liberty are averaging over 16,000 fans for the second straight season.
A'ja Wilson scored 45 points and remains the top MVP headliner. Kelsey Plum leads the league in scoring, while Caitlin Clark set a new record for the most career games with 20+ points and 10 assists.
Speaking of the 1k club, Clark tied Tamika Catchings for the most points scored through 54 career games with 1,000.
Both A'ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart were awarded the first Western and Eastern Conference Players of the week, and several storylines have defined just a 14-day period. On Thursday, Sparks star Nneka Ogwumike passed Catchings for fifth on the all-time WNBA scoring list.
Olivia Miles is as advertised in her rookie season with the Minnesota Lynx, but Pauline Astier (Liberty), Gabriela Jaquez (Sky), Jovana Nogic (Mercury), and Kiki Rice (Tempo) are rookies to watch, along with Azzi Fudd this season.
Although these are just a few storylines, here are my power rankings for weeks 1 and 2. These will change week-to-week, but who's rising and who's falling?
2026 WNBA Power Rankings (May 8-22)
*Editor's Note: Rankings made before Friday, May 22 games*
15. Connecticut Sun
Preseason Rank: 13 (-2)
2026 WNBA championship odds: +50000 (+50000 preseason)
Record: 1-5
Trends: 0-3 on the road and lost four of the last five games. The Sun are 2-8 over their last 10 games dating back to September 2025. Split the series 1-1, and will play the Storm for the third time since May 8
I originally had the Connecticut Sun as low as No. 13 in my preseason rankings, but they moved down two spots this week.
I knew the Sun would be in full rebuild mode, and I expected Rachid Meziane to experiment with various starting lineups. Since May 8, Connecticut has deployed six different starting lineups, and the point guard position has been a point of contention.
The opening day starters included Kennedy Burke, Brittney Griner, Diamond Miller, Aneesah Morrow, and Saniya Rivers.
Since then, the Sun dropped four straight and owns the WNBA's worst record at 1-5. Meziane has moved Rivers away from the one and has experimented with both Hailey Van Lith and Charlisse Leger-Walker at the point.
Brittney Griner is the team's leading scorer with 15 points per game, although she's missed three straight games with a rib injury.
In the Sun's defense, they played the Aces twice and were trounced by the New York Liberty in the season opener, 106-75. Losses to the Storm and the Fire were by seven points or fewer, and they earned their first victory over Seattle on Wednesday, 80-78.
Kennedy Burke finally had a breakout game with 15 points in the victory, and rookie Nell Angloma has already been a difference maker on both sides of the ball. Connecticut has some serious young talent, including Leger-Walker, Aaliyah Edwards, Aneesah Morrow, Angloma, Raegan Beers, and so forth.
To me, this team doesn't have a true identity and lacks star power because of its youth. Connecticut owns the WNBA's worst NET rating (-15.2) and ranks last in offensive rating (97.2).
In five games, the Sun were steamrolled by the Aces and lost by 29 points. Their largest loss came against New York by 31 points. Sure, the Sun defeated the Storm, another rebuilding franchise that was without its star center, Dominique Malonga. Perhaps this team will find some rhythm once Laila Lacan returns, but until then, I expect Meziane to continue shuffling the rotations.
Plus, their schedule is difficult: Connecticut will play three games against the Lynx, Dream, Valkyries, and Fever. They have two games remaining against the Liberty, and will face the Aces one last time in Sin City. Next week, they get Seattle, Golden State, Portland, and Los Angeles. I see them at the bottom or near the bottom of the standings in the near future.
14. Seattle Storm
Preseason Rankings: 14 (No change)
2026 WNBA championship odds: +40000 (+50000 preseason)
Record: 1-4
Trends: Lost three consecutive games and has a -26 point margin over that span. Seattle has a 0-2 record at home and has lost three of its five games by double digits
It's been quite the transition for the Storm, which is in a rebuild in the post-Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins, and Gabby Williams era.
Just 1-4 on the season, Seattle lost the season opener 91-80, and is riding a three-game skid against the Tempo, Fever, and Sun.
The good news: Rookie Awa Fam has arrived in the Emerald City and will be introduced before tonight's game against Connecticut.
The bad news: Dominique Malonga, the team's leading scorer (16 PPG), rebounder (7.3 RPG), and shot blocker (2.0 BPG), will miss a third consecutive game after entering the concussion protocol. In addition, Ezi Magbegor remains out, leaving Seattle with thin frontcourt depth. The loss was felt as the Storm were outrebounded by the Sun 38-26, and Connecticut scored 50 points in the paint.
Seattle hasn't had a particularly difficult schedule; they played the Sun twice, split the series, and will face them for a third time tonight. Their toughest losses came back-to-back against the Tempo by 13 points and against the Fever by 11 points.
The Storm has depth, but the production has been shaky. Stefanie Dolson and Jordan Horston headlined the frontcourt amid injuries, which is not ideal. From a scoring perspective, Jade Melbourne has been effective, as she's a gritty player who even chipped a tooth. Through five games, she's averaging 13 points, while shooting 53.1% from the field, and 36.4% from beyond the arc.
Seattle ranks No. 8 in defensive rating (105.7), but the lack of offense concerns me. As mentioned previously, this team is in rebuild mode and should improve somewhat once Malonga, Magbegor, and Fam get some reps in together. A full rebuild plus injuries is a recipe for disaster.
Seattle has a heavy-guard roster, and Lexie Brown and Zia Cooke have failed to take that next step. Flau'jae Johnson affects the box score in more ways than one, but has shown struggles early on. I have no doubt she'll continue to develop, but she's shooting just 26.5% from the field and 23.5% from three in her rookie campaign.
Similar to Connecticut, Seattle ranks No. 14 in offensive rating (98.5) and is scoring a league-low 79.6 points per game. They own the fourth-worst NET rating (-7.2) in the WNBA, and the point guard role is vital, as they averaged the fewest assists per game (15). Natisha Hiedeman is averaging 12.2 points and 3.6 assists as a starter, and she's scored 29 points over the last two games.
Seattle has the toughest remaining schedule in the league, and they face Washington twice, Connecticut, and Toronto this week. Until we see Fam take her first reps and Malonga is cleared, Seattle remains at No. 14 this week.
13. Portland Fire
Preseason Rankings: 15 (+2)
2026 WNBA championship odds:+50000 (+50000 preseason)
Record: 2-3
Trends: 2-2 record at home, Earned the first-ever victory in franchise history over the Liberty on May 12 98-96. The Fire has lost three of five games by double-digits
I want to give my most sincere apology to the Portland Fire. I ranked them dead last at the start of the preseason, and they now have a 2-3 record.
Not only did the Fire claim their first victory ever, but they upset the Liberty at home, 98-96. It was Sarah Ashlee Barker who put up a last-second pushback, and Bridget Carleton dropped a career-high 26 points and five threes. It was an emotional night, as the team rallied together for its first win. But is it enough for me to move them further? No.
Scoring 98 points on the Liberty while shooting 50% from the field and 45% from beyond the arc is impressive. And we saw the Fire come back to defeat the Sun 83-82 thanks to Sug Sutton's floater.
There's no doubt this Portland team is resilient, one that prides itself on defense, although the stats say otherwise. The Fire ranks No. 14 in defensive rating and allows the second-most points per game (93.2). Frontcourt strength has been an issue, although Emily Engstler has shown her vertical ability with the blocks. As a team, they rank last in rebounds per game (27), and their weakness lies on the perimeter. Opponents are shooting a league-high 38.2% from beyond the arc and 49.5% from the floor.
As much as that first victory was impressive, Portland has lost three of its five games by double figures. Scoring just 73 points against Caitlin Clark and company, the bench produced 34 points, but no player off the bench scored more than 10 points.
Outside of Carleton's 16 points, the offense was abysmal, and Sutton contributed 14 points, four assists, and one steal.
Carleton has shined in her first season in Rose City, averaging a team-high 16.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 2.4 steals, while shooting 37.8% from deep. Carla Leite has made an immediate impact, although she missed the past two games with an ankle injury.
Overall, Portland owns the second-worst NET rating (-11.4) in the WNBA and a -9.4 point differential. They've stayed afloat at home (.500) after a four-game home stand, but the team decided to make massive changes.
Portland waived Kamiah Smalls, Sutton, and Hayley Jones, which were head-scratching moves. Subsequently, they converted Forward Frieda Bühner into a standard contract, along with guard Holly Winterburn.
Making several moves this early on can disrupt the flow and rhythm. The Fire have a challenging schedule this week, as they face the Tempo, Liberty, Dream, and Fever.
I think Portland will remain a disruptive team, but the lack of offensive firepower and defense doesn't convince me they will move much. We will see...
12. Toronto Tempo
Preseason Rankings: 12 (Unchanged)
2026 WNBA championship odds:+17000 (+15000 preseason)
Record: 3-3
Trends: Won two of the last three games
The Toronto Tempo definitely surprised several people, and head coach Sandy Brondello is one of the best in the business. The Tempo is a tough, gritty team led by a million-dollar backcourt pair, Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes.
The offense has improved significantly since Toronto lost the season opener to the Mystics, 68-65. Sure, this team lost to the Sparks and Mystics, but only by four points or less.
Toronto did gain a victory on the road in Phoenix, where Mabrey and Sykes combined for 61 points. Mind you, all while doing so with limited frontcourt depth: Nyara Sabally, Isabelle Harrison, and Temi Fágbénle remain out with injuries.
In the 106-96 victory over the Sparks in LA, Sykes erupted for a career-high 38 points, and rookie Kiki Rice and Mabrey added 19 and 14. While the Tempo started off hot defensively, but they slipped to No. 14, and they are a middle-of-the-road team offensively.
Mabrey and Sykes are the proven leaders, and Kiki Rice has shined in her first season (11.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists). Outside of the big three, I have concerns about who can step up offensively. Julie Allemand remains out; can Kia Nurse, Laura Juskaite, and others step up? As a team, they post a -0.7-point differential and a -0.2 NET rating.
This team is well-coached and has the grit to fight in games, but then we saw a 100-72 blowout loss to the Lynx. Kia Nurse led the team with 23 points off the bench, as Mabrey and Sykes combined for just nine points.
I do believe Mabrey and Sykes must be on point every night until the Tempo regains depth and health. This team has talent but lacks some star power outside of the guards. Plus, they lack size if injuries are a recurring problem.
The Tempo gets the Fire and Storm next week.
11. Phoenix Mercury
Preseason Rankings: 9 (-2)
2026 WNBA championship odds: +2500 (+1500 preseason)
Record: 2-4
Trends: Lost two consecutive games and have a 1-3 record at home
I will admit, it was difficult to gauge the Mercury heading into the preseason. I had originally had them at No. 9, but they moved three spots down to 12.
Phoenix came out of the gate hot with a defining 99-66 victory over the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces. It was a statement win given the Aces swept the Mercury 4-0 in the 2025 WNBA Finals. A complete two-way performance, all five starters scored in double-figures, and the bench produced 24 points.
The Mercury made little moves in free agency, but their scouting department deserves a raise. Monique Akoa Makani has yet to make her season debut, and Sami Whitcomb remains out with injury, which leaves a void for Phoenix.
Since opening day, Phoenix has gone on to lose four of its last five and is fresh off a two-game losing streak. Over the four games, they averaged a -9.4 point-spread margin.
The good: Jovana Nogic, the rookie sensation from Serbia. Through six games, she's been a consistent scoring threat, averaging 15.3 points, 1.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and one steal, while shooting 45.5% from the floor and 50% from downtown.
Nogic has showcased her 3-point prowess, and yes, it's here to stay. I would rank them higher, but they lost to both the Sparks and Tempo by double figures, not to mention to Golden State by 16. Not only did they blow two leads against the Lynx and Valkyries, but also against the Tempo.
The real test was last night. The stars were out to celebrate the 30th anniversary in the Valley, and the Mercury couldn't stop the Sparks. Dearica Hamby and Nneka Ogwumike blasted the Mercury frontcourt for 39 points and 21 rebounds alone.
Phoenix undoubtedly has heavy hitters in Kahleah Copper, Alyssa Thomas, Nogic, DeWanna Bonner, and Natasha Mack. Inconsistencies have defined this team as Copper is shooting just 34% from the field and 15.2% from three. Bonner hasn't been as efficient, shooting 40.4% from the floor and 23.1% from three. In non-Mack minutes, this team lacks size and rim protection.
The offensive production drops off vastly after Mack, but defense is the main concern. Phoenix plays with a positionless basketball, which has its pros and cons. Over their two-game losing streak, the Mercury have allowed 195 points, an average of 97.5 points per game to the Sparks and Tempo. Although they rank No. 8 in NET rating (1.7), Phoenix sits tenth in defensive rating (107.8).
The Mercury did beat the Sky 91-83, thanks to Nogic's 27 points. Until this team locks down on defense and gets Whitcomb and Makani back, the Mercury will have less depth and scoring. I can't quite find a pulse on this team quite yet, and they have a tough week ahead with matchups against the Dream and Liberty (back-to-back). Perhaps I'm being too harsh, but they sit at 12 for now. This team has the opportunity to compete once the roster is fully rounded out—I don't expect them to sit this low for long.
10. Los Angeles Sparks
2026 WNBA championship odds: +3000 (+1500 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 5 (-5)
Record: 2-3
Trends: Started 0-2 and won two of the last three games. The Sparks are 1-3 at home
To my own admission, I can't fully grasp the Sparks just yet. They started off 0-2 this season and have won two of their last three games since head coach Lynne Roberts called out Cameron Brink.
There's no question that the offense struggled early on as the Sparks scored just 78 points in back-to-back losses against the Aces and Fever. Losing to the Aces by 31 points was a major red flag, as they allowed 105 points.
The Sparks bounced back with a 99-95 victory over the Tempo and a 97-88 win over the Phoenix Mercury on the road last night. The main question all along is whether the big three of Nneka Ogwumike, Kelsey Plum, and Dearica Hamby have enough help on offense. Last night, Hamby totaled 27 points and 15 rebounds, but Ariel Atkins delivered on both ends. Off the bench were Rae Burrell and Cameron Brink, who added 12 points apiece.
There is a major drop-off in scoring outside the big three, and we've seen it in games. And right now, Roberts is mainly committed to a seven-player rotation (for the most part). The Sparks are in no short supply of offense, as they rank No. 4 in offensive rating, and Kelsey Plum is quietly having a stellar season with 24.6 points and 5.8 assists while shooting 41.2% from deep.
What makes this team so low-ranked is its defense and inconsistent support on offense. LA ranks last in defensive rating, allowing teams to score 96.2 points per game.
The Sparks finish up a four-game road trip and will play the Aces and Mystics this week. We've seen improvement, but I'm not totally sold, especially defensively.
9. Washington Mystics
2026 WNBA championship odds: +8000 (+10000 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 11 (+2)
Record: 2-2
Trends: Lost two of the last three games with a 1-2 record on the road
Similar to the Dream, the Mystics have played just four games this year. I've liked what I've seen so far, aside from their 92-69 blowout loss to the Dallas Wings. Starting tonight, the Mystics will finish up a four-game road trip before they return to the Nation's Capital for a pair of games next week.
Washington came back and won a gritty 68-65 opener over the Tempo at home. And while they lost to the Liberty 98-93, they tied it thanks to Kiki Iriafen and took New York to overtime.
The most impressive victory came against the Fever in overtime, 104-102. It was a shootout, and the Fever could have won it. Instead, Sonia Citron added 30 points, and Iriafen erupted for 25 points and 13 rebounds.
I always compare the Mystics to the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder. This team has so much talent and youth. But as we've seen, they can compete. Arguably, they have the strongest frontcourt in the WNBA.
Both Iriafen and Shakira Austin are having career years, as Iriafen is putting up 16.5 and 12.8, and Austin is putting up 16.3 and 8.5 boards. It's so strong that rookie Lauren Betts is averaging just 14.8 minutes per game.
Georgia Amoore's shooting percentages could improve, but the Mystics finally have their point guard. That said, Citron has taken flight this season, improving to 20 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.5 steals, while shooting 59.1% from the field. Aside from the Dallas game against a tough Bueckers defense, Citron has been the Mystics' primary three-level scorer.
Time will tell if the Mystics have enough supporting cast. They shoot just 26.9% from three, but are one of the strongest rebounding teams in the league. As time goes on, Sydney Johnson will continue to experiment with starting lineups, especially with Cotie McMahon and Cassandre Prosper.
This team is the youngest roster in the WNBA. I'm not expecting them to win a championship this year. And through four games, they posted a NET rating of -6.8 and a -5.8 point differential. Still, it's translated to two wins, and I do believe this team could be slept on.
This week, they have two matchups against the Storm.
8. Chicago Sky
2026 WNBA championship odds: +10000 (+5500 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 8 (Unchanged)
Record: 3-2
Trends: Lost two of the last three games with a record 3-1 on the road
I had Chicago at No. 8, and I'm keeping them there for now. The Sky started off strong, with back-to-back wins over the Fire and Valkyries. Perhaps the most impressive victory of the season came against the Minnesota Lynx, 86-79.
Rookie Gabriela Jaquez is showing why Chicago drafted her No. 5 overall; in the matchup, she delivered a career-high 20 points and eight rebounds.
Offense has been an issue for Chicago at times, but they remain a top-five defensive squad. Posting a +2.0 point differential and 2.7 NET rating, they've been competitive thus far.
The Sky were dealt devastating injury news as Rickea Jackson will miss the remainder of the season with an ACL injury. Up until the last game, Jackson led the team with 18 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.8 blocks. In her place will have to be either Jaquez or Jacy Sheldon, who steps up.
I'm looking more at how the Sky has performed rather than the future. They have three wins, seven fewer than their total wins in 2025. This is a team that's got off on the right foot early, even with injuries to Azurà Stevens, Courtney Vandersloot, and DiJonai Carrington. A healthy Stevens will provide much-needed floor spacing and 3-point scoring on the perimeter.
Aside from the Sky's 69-63 victory over the Fire, they've scored 90+ points in two of the five games. Against Dallas, Kamilla Cardoso walked into the paint as she delivered 24 points and 11 rebounds. What truly impressed me was Natasha Cloud's ability to take over as point guard and run the offense. With Cloud on the floor, Chicago pushed the pace the entire game.
I do like the combination of Cloud, Diggins, Jaquez, and Sheldon, all of whom are known for their defense. Plus, I like the fact that Sydney Taylor earned more minutes in the last game. This is a guard-heavy team aside from Elizabeth Williams and Cardoso. Taking Jackson's injury into account, Chicago will either sink or swim.
It's a good thing that the Sky loaded up on free agents in the offseason. They face Minnesota twice this week, along with the Tempo.
7. Minnesota Lynx
2026 WNBA championship odds: +800 (+850 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 7 (Unchanged)
Record: 3-2
Trends: Won three of the last four games, and is undefeated 2-0 on the road
I had the Minnesota Lynx at No. 7, and that's remained unchanged.
The Lynx are managing to stay afloat without Napheesa Collier, Dorka Juhasz, and now Emma Cechova, who will miss the rest of the season with an ACL injury.
Hats off to head coach Cheryl Reeve and her staff; she's one of the best in the business. As expected, Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams have stepped up in the absence of Collier, averaging 15.6 points per game each.
The most crucial piece on the chessboard has been rookie Olivia Miles; she's lived up to the hype. Although her 3-point shot has been shaky (20%), she's averaged 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.4 steals, while shooting 50% from the field.
Miles has taken on the responsibility as the primary facilitator and has often been compared to Aces' Chelsea Gray. In her matchups, she's been as consistent as a rookie can be.
The Lynx have now won three of the last four games, including a 100-72 command over the Toronto Tempo, in which Maya Caldwell broke out for 16 points. Overall, it was an even scoring distribution, and Minnesota held the Tempo to 34% from the field and 29% from three.
And perhaps I should apologize to Natasha Howard, who's handled the interior without Collier, and Alanna Smith/Jessica Shepard, who departed for Dallas in free agency. Her most crucial game came during Minnesota's 90-86 victory over the Wings, in which she scored 26 points and added five rebounds and four assists.
The Lynx are a top-seven team on both sides of the ball and even boast a +5.5-point differential. Williams has moved more off-ball, but the lack of production outside of McBride, Williams, Howard, and Miles could be concerning, especially with Cechova out. Either way, I'm a big believer in the Lynx once Collier and Juhasz return. This week, they face Chicago (twice) and Atlanta.
Now, I don't want to get on Reeve's bad side, but I do think the Lynx will move up from this spot once the roster is healthy.
6. Indiana Fever
2026 WNBA championship odds: +550 (+550 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 3 (-3)
Record: 3-2
Trends: Won two straight games. Indiana is 2-2 at home and 1-0 on the road
The Indiana Fever got off to a tough start, conceding to the Dallas Wings 107-104 in the season opener. Both made history as the only two teams to score over 100 points in a season opener.
Indiana has since redeemed itself, as they rank No. 4 in defensive rating (101.6) and secured an 87-78 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks. Again, the Fever lost to the Mystics in overtime, 104-102, but rebounded with two wins over the Fire and Storm.
The Fever's schedule hasn't been too challenging, but they stayed alive with injuries to Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston. Through four games, Clark is averaging 24.3 points, five rebounds, nine assists, one steal, and one block. Although she caught fire towards the end of the matchup vs. the Mystics for 32 points, we must address her shooting woes.
Clark is going to impact the box score in several ways, but she shot just 2-of-16 from three to start the season. Against Washington, Clark shot just 10-28 and 7-17 from deep, but rebounded against the Storm with 21 points, seven rebounds, and 10 assists on 5-of-10 shooting.
Defeating the Fire and Storm wasn't all that impressive, but this is a Fever team that leads the WNBA in points per game (94.4 PPG). That's in large part to Kelsey Mitchell, who ranks top-five in the league with 23 points on 35.3% 3-point shooting. Scoring 20+ points in three of four games, Mitchell dropped 30 in the shootout against Dallas.
The Fever could move up, and should, given they boast an 8.2 NET rating, even with Clark's struggles and Boston's injury. Not only have they won two straight, but they have posted a +6.2 point differential.
It's a good sign we've seen Lexie Hull come to life as of late, who scored 16 points against Portland. This roster runs deep, and rookie Raven Johnson has been exactly as advertised on the defensive end.
This week, the Fever gets the Valkyries back-to-back.
5. Dallas Wings
2026 WNBA championship odds: +2000 (+2500 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 6 (+1)
Record: 3-2
Trends: Dallas is 2-0 on the road and has won two of its last three games
It's been a bit of a roller coaster ride with the Dallas Wings, but here we are. It's an entirely new era in Dallas; this is a team that won a combined 19 games over the last two seasons.
Jose Fernandez has been intentional about his lineups and matchups. He's opted to start Odyssey Sims over Azzi Fudd, who fared well in their 107-104 victory over the Indiana Fever. As time has gone on, Fudd has looked more comfortable and may find herself in the starting lineup sooner rather than later.
The Wings have victories over the Fever (impressive on the road), the Mystics, and the Sky. Riding a two-game win streak, we've seen some struggles, but the team has overcome them. Alanna Smith hasn't been as advertised, is dealing with a broken nose, and has found herself in early foul trouble. Against Chicago, Fernandez tried to stop the bleeding in the interior by deploying Li Yueru and Jessica Shepard against Kamilla Cardoso.
That victory had me place the Wings No. 5. They move up one spot as they own the top offense in the WNBA, averaging 91.2 points per game. Not to mention, they own the best 3-point percentage (36.9%).
Regardless of lineup buzz, Paige Bueckers is having an incredible sophomore campaign, as she's averaging 20.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, while shooting 57.6% from the field and 57.9% from three. She's put on muscle, is attacking downhill more, but has been aggressive on the threes and automatic in the mid-range off screens.
Arike Ogunbowale has picked up production next to Bueckers, scoring 17.4 points and shooting 38.5% from the field. Fudd, drafted No. 1 overall, is tallying 8.8 points and shooting 42.9% from three in four games.
The tides have turned since Fernandez called out the locker room for being "selfish." Dallas bounced back with a 92-69 victory over Washington, thanks to Bueckers' 18 points and Shepard's 16 rebounds.
Dallas owns a +5.2-point differential and has managed to stay in the win column despite struggles. I do think lineups will be matchup-dependent moving forward, although Maddy Siegrist and Awak Kuier deserve more minutes.
The real test is this week, when the Wings will face the Dream and Liberty on the road. On Thursday, Dallas hosts the Aces at home. Depending on what happens this week, it can make or break the Wings in next week's power rankings. Defensive and interior presence will determine several of these upcoming games.
4. Atlanta Dream
2026 WNBA championship odds: +550 (+550 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 4 (Unchanged)
Record: 2-1
Trends: 2-1 over the last three games and 2-0 on the road. Atlanta has not played a game since May 17
It's hard to believe the Atlanta Dream have played just three games this season and will return to action after a four-day break.
I have the Dream at the four spot, which is exactly where I ranked them in the preseason. There's not much data to go off of, but I like what I saw after Atlanta's 91-90 come-from-behind victory over the Minnesota Lynx and a 77-72 win over Paige Bueckers and the Wings.
The Dream have caught fire early on, ranking No. 2 in defensive rating (99.2) and boasting a 1.2 NET rating. The metrics aren't entirely impressive, as they rank No. 13 in offensive rating. Again, there are only three games to base this team on.
This team was nearly 3-1 if it wasn't for Chelsea Gray's winning shot in the Aces 85-84 victory over the Dream. But what we cannot forget is Angel Reese's 1-for-8 shooting performance, which resulted in nine points, eight rebounds, and eight turnovers.
Allisha Gray leads the pack and is quietly having an MVP-esque season with 25 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and one block. Rhyne Howard's production has dipped, as she and Gray are both shooting under 28% from three.
Atlanta has shooters, defenders, and several of them. Borlase and Nye are sharpshooters when given minutes, and Okot has filled in with some minutes while Brionna Jones is hurt. Perhaps the most surprising is Reese, who's averaging a double-double with 10.7 points, 12.7 rebounds, one steal, and 1.7 blocks. Shooting just 33.3% from the field, I figured Smesko would have her extend her range to the perimeter by now. Maybe, in due time, that will happen.
The Dream plays with pace, and lots of it. Gray, Howard, and Canada are all bucket getters. And against Minnesota, it was Gray's 24 points, Reese's double-double, and a game-sealing block that delivered the win. Again, Reese recorded a double-double against Dallas, along with Gray's 26 points.
Overall, the Dream boasts a +1.7 point differential and can hang with top teams. They beat Minnesota by just one point, but also lost to the Aces by one. It's been a tough schedule for the Dream, and they will face the Wings, Mercury, and Portland this week. The Dream came within just one point without Rhyne Howard and Brionna Jones. Let's see how they fare this week. Atlanta will play four games in an eight-day span.
3. New York Liberty
2026 WNBA championship odds: +220 (+260 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 2 (-1)
Record: 3-2
Trends: Lost two of the last three games, and have a 2-1 record on the road
You may be wondering why I have the New York Liberty so high. I had them at No. 2 in the preseason and dropped one spot.
Last night's 87-70 loss to the Valkyries was a tough pill to swallow at home, but Golden State is an elite defensive squad. Limited to just 70 points, turnovers, lack of interior defense, and a poor shooting night defined the Liberty last night.
Satou Sabally made her debut for New York and tallied five points and three rebounds in 16 minutes. Missing were Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (personal reasons) and Sabrina Ionescu (ankle). Plus, Leonie Fiebich has yet to make her season debut.
It's clear New York is missing several pieces to the puzzle, but it still remains 3-2 on the season. New York endured an early road trip, where they were stunned by the Portland Fire, 98-96. While that was partially due to a mental lapse by rookie Pauline Astier, it's still a loss.
There's no doubt New York has been challenged: The Mystics took things into overtime, and Golden State flat-out beat them. Also, this is a Liberty team that beat the Sun by 31 points and avenged a 100-82 loss to the Fire.
It takes time to develop chemistry with a new head coach, although I'm skeptical of Chris DeMarco's defensive scheme. The Liberty ranks No. 7 in NET rating (0.9) and remains in the top five offensively. This is a team that puts up 94 points per game and shoots 35.8% from three, averaging 29.6 attempts per game. DeMarco hasn't shied away from former coach Sandy Brondello's heavy 3-point shooting scheme.
Perhaps the most impressive player for the Liberty has been Pauline Astier, who's proven herself as a fantastic playmaker and 3-point shooter. Breanna Stewart leads the way with 22 points, although her 3-point woes continue (13.3%).
The Liberty have length, size, versatility, and several players who can score on any given night. Once Ionescu comes back, is it a bad thing to have Marine Johannés and Astier come off the bench? Once this team has its full roster back, the star power is there. It's putting it together, and the team brought back most of its 2024 championship core.
Even with several players missing, the Liberty boasts a +7.0 point differential and ranks second in offensive rating (112.7). They are in the midst of a seven-game home stand, where they will face the Mercury (twice), Wings, Fire, and Tempo.
Believe it or not, they are the favorites on FanDuel to win the 2026 WNBA title.
2. Golden State Valkyries
2026 WNBA championship odds: +2200 (+3500 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 10 (+8)
Record: 3-1
Trends: Won three of the last four and has a 2-0 record on the road
I'm not sure I expect Golden State to be here, but here we are. I may have put them too high, but we cannot ignore how well this team is playing. I ranked them No. 10 in the preseason, and they've jumped eight spots since.
Head coach Natalie Nakase was firm on leaving last year's success in the past in the new season. The Valkyries exceeded expectations in their first season and are now one of the strongest teams, metrics-wise and in the standings.
The Valkyries are a gritty team; they rank No. 3 in offensive rating and thrive on defense. In fact, they own the second-best NET rating (11.9) and best point differential (+9.5) in the league.
Aside from their outlier 69-63 loss against Chicago, the Valkyries have scored 90+ points in back-to-back games against Seattle and Phoenix. Last night, they made a statement with an 86-70 victory over the New York Liberty at Barclays Center.
No one could stop Golden State, especially in the paint and in transition. Yes, New York was without Sabrina Ionescu and Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, but this team has proven it can hang with the top dogs.
Perhaps we can overlook Kayla Thornton's 0-11 shooting performance against Chicago; she bounced back with 11 points and five rebounds against her former team. Similar to the Aces, Gabby Williams is exactly what the Valkyries needed: a Swiss Army knife who can impact both sides of the floor and defend multiple positions. In her first season with Golden State, she leads the team with 15 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.5 steals while shooting 46.2% from beyond the arc.
Golden State has several two-way threats, including Thornton, Veronica Burton, and Kayla Thornton. Much to no surprise, they lead the WNBA in 3-point attempts (32.8), 3-pointers made (12), and boast a 36.6% mark from three. Janelle Salaün is a sniper from beyond the arc and is off to a strong start, shooting 44.4% from deep.
Golden State is a versatile bunch, and Tiffany Hayes is back after missing a few games. Plus, they are doing all this without one of their best sharpshooters, Cecilia Zandalasini (concussion).
The Valkyries haven't allowed a team to score over 80 points and have limited the Liberty and Sky to an average of 69.5 points. They defeated both the Mercury and the Liberty by double figures and allow a league-low 74.5 points per game this season. We'll see where Golden State ends up next week as they face the Fever (twice), Sun, Aces, Fire, and Lynx.
1. Las Vegas Aces
2026 WNBA championship odds: +410 (+410 preseason)
Preseason Rank: 1 (Unchanged)
Record: 4-1
Trends: On a four-game win streak, 4-0 on the road, and 0-1 at home. The Aces have scored 100+ points in two of their last four games
No surprise here, the reigning champions remain at No. 1 in my power rankings. Opening night was a disaster, as the Aces were trounced by the Mercury 99-66. Since then, they've gone on a four-game winning streak, scoring 100+ points in two of those. We all remember last year, right? The Lynx beat the Aces by 31 points, the Las Vegas Aces went on a 16-game streak, and ultimately won it all.
There are a few reasons why I like Vegas in this spot. Over the win-streak, the Aces rank No. 1 in offensive rating (116.3) and lead the WNBA in defensive rating (96.7). I do think that the first loss to the Mercury affected their overall offensive rating, but let's ignore that. They've averaged 97.2 points over the last four games, including 101 and 105-point outings against the Sun and Sparks.
Las Vegas hasn't had a rigorous schedule. They haven't played since May 17 and faced Connecticut back-to-back on the road. Chelsea Gray hit the game-winner against the Dream, and they steamrolled the Sparks by 27 points.
No. 1 in NET rating (19.4), the Aces are led by A'ja Wilson, who's once again put together an early MVP-caliber season. Through five games, she's averaging 25 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 2.0 blocks, while shooting 59.5% from the field and 66.7% from three.
While Young's production has dipped slightly, the most crucial signing has been Chennedy Carter. Back in the league, the Aces took a gamble on Carter, and it's paying off. A high-energy and volume scorer, Carter torched the Sun and Sparks defenses for 27 and 22 points. She's scored at least 18+ points in four games, averaging 19 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.6 steals, while shooting 67.2% from the field.
I like the idea of Carter producing off the bench, and I do think Jewell Loyd could find her groove eventually, hence last year. This week, the Aces get the Sparks (twice), Wings, and Valkyries (twice).
Sara Jane Gamelli is the Managing Editor and Senior Staff Writer at Ballislife.com, as well as Director of Ballislife Bets. Follow her on X at @SaraJGamelli.
