WNBA Power Rankings: Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty Battle for Top Spot
As the WNBA gears up to resume action on August 15 following the Olympic break, the Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty are locked in a fierce battle for the top spot in the league. A’ja Wilson, on the verge of capturing her third MVP trophy, leads the Aces, while the Liberty’s formidable trio of Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, and Breanna Stewart pose a significant challenge. Here’s a look at the power rankings as the season enters its critical stretch.
1. Las Vegas Aces (16-8)
Despite a relatively down year, the back-to-back WNBA champions maintain their top ranking. With more losses this season than the entire 2023 campaign, the Aces have faced challenges, including injuries and Candace Parker’s retirement. However, A’ja Wilson’s exceptional performance and leadership are expected to steer the team back on course for another championship run.
2. New York Liberty (21-4)
The Liberty boast the best record in the WNBA, thanks to the stellar play of Ionescu, Jones, and Stewart. Their impressive roster and consistent performances have positioned them as strong contenders for the championship, potentially dethroning the Aces.
3. Minnesota Lynx (17-8)
Starting the season with a surprising hot streak, the Lynx have proven their early success is no fluke. Known for their robust defense, Minnesota is a dark horse for the rest of the season, aiming to leverage their defensive prowess into a deep playoff run.
4. Connecticut Sun (18-6)
The Sun, like the Lynx, are defensive stalwarts. The addition of Marina Mabrey has bolstered their roster, but their success will hinge on generating enough offense to complement their defensive strength as they push towards the playoffs.
5. Seattle Storm (17-8)
Led by the dynamic duo of Jewell Loyd and Nneka Ogwumike, the Storm have tied for the third-best record in the league. With additional key players like Skylar Diggins-Smith and Ezi Magbegor, their primary concerns are depth and three-point shooting, crucial factors as the season progresses.
6. Phoenix Mercury (13-12)
The Mercury have shown significant improvement, already surpassing their win total from the previous season. The offseason trade for Kahleah Copper has paid dividends, positioning them as a competitive team this year.
7. Indiana Fever (11-15)
Building a promising young core with back-to-back No. 1 picks Aliyah Boston and Caitlin Clark, the Fever are on an upward trajectory. Their ranking is expected to improve as their young talent develops.
8. Chicago Sky (10-14)
The Sky’s performance has remained stagnant compared to last season. Rookie Angel Reese has been a bright spot, though her shooting remains a work in progress. Chicago’s roster reflects this shooting deficiency, impacting their overall effectiveness.
9. Dallas Wings (6-19)
The Wings have been the season’s biggest disappointment, with injuries to key players like Maddy Siegrist playing a significant role in their struggles. Their record reflects the challenges they’ve faced in maintaining competitiveness.
10. Atlanta Dream (7-17)
With Allisha Gray emerging as a star, the Dream have a foundation to build upon. However, their offensive struggles are evident, as they rank last in points per game. Improvement in all offensive aspects is necessary for future success.
11. Los Angeles Sparks (6-18)
The Sparks have had a worse-than-expected season, exacerbated by No. 2 pick Cameron Brink’s ACL injury. Despite their struggles, rookies like Rickea Jackson offer hope for a rebuild focused on youth and development.
12. Washington Mystics (6-19)
The Mystics are in turmoil, dealing with significant roster changes and injuries. The departure of key players like Elena Delle Donne and Natasha Cloud, combined with an injury-plagued season, has led to their downfall from a decent 2023 campaign.
As the WNBA resumes, the battle for supremacy between the Aces and Liberty will be a key storyline, with other teams like the Lynx and Sun looking to disrupt the hierarchy.
