Introduction The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has undergone significant transformations between 2017 and 2024, evolving in terms of gameplay, star power, social advocacy, and international recognition. This blog post dives into the major events and trends that shaped the WNBA during this period, focusing on the rise of superteams, key players, and the league’s stance on social issues.
2017-2020: The Rise of Superteams and Dominance
During the late 2010s, the WNBA saw the emergence of superteams that dominated the league. Two teams, in particular, stood out:
Key Teams:
- Minnesota Lynx: The Lynx captured their fourth WNBA Championship in 2017, capping off a decade of dominance that solidified their legacy as one of the greatest teams in WNBA history.
- Seattle Storm: Led by Breanna Stewart and the legendary Sue Bird, the Storm clinched titles in 2018 and 2020, marking the beginning of their dynasty.
Key Players:
- Maya Moore (Minnesota Lynx): Moore was instrumental in the Lynx’s success, earning multiple All-Star selections and being a constant MVP candidate.
- Sylvia Fowles (Minnesota Lynx): Fowles, known for her rebounding and defensive prowess, was a cornerstone of the Lynx’s championship run.
- Breanna Stewart (Seattle Storm): Stewart dominated the league, winning Finals MVP in both 2018 and 2020, and establishing herself as one of the all-time greats.
Olympians:
- Several WNBA stars, including Breanna Stewart, Sue Bird, and Diana Taurasi, played pivotal roles in securing the USA’s seventh consecutive gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Controversies:
- Maya Moore’s Hiatus: In 2019, Maya Moore shocked the sports world by stepping away from basketball to focus on social justice, particularly advocating for the release of Jonathan Irons, who was wrongfully imprisoned. Her efforts paid off in 2020 when Irons was released, highlighting the impact athletes can have beyond the court.
2021-2022: A New Era and Social Advocacy
As the league entered a new decade, it witnessed not only a change in competitive dynamics but also a stronger emphasis on social justice and player advocacy.
Key Teams:
- Chicago Sky: In 2021, the Sky, led by Candace Parker, won their first-ever WNBA Championship, with Parker making a historic return to her hometown to achieve this milestone.
- Las Vegas Aces: The Aces, under the leadership of A’ja Wilson, captured their first WNBA title in 2022, marking the rise of another powerhouse in the league.
Key Players:
- Candace Parker (Chicago Sky): Parker’s return to Chicago brought the city its first championship, showcasing her enduring impact on the game.
- A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces): Wilson’s rise continued as she established herself as one of the league’s premier stars, earning MVP honors and leading her team to glory.
Social Advocacy:
- The WNBA became synonymous with social justice, particularly in 2020 when players were at the forefront of protests against racial inequality and police brutality. The league’s involvement in social issues reached a peak when the Atlanta Dream players supported Raphael Warnock’s Senate campaign, directly opposing their team co-owner, Kelly Loeffler, who was criticized for her controversial political views.
Lawsuits:
- The 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA), negotiated by the WNBA Players Association (WNBPA), brought significant improvements in salaries, maternity leave, and travel conditions for players, marking a milestone in the league’s history.
2023-2024: Rising Stars and Continued Growth
As the WNBA entered its 27th season, a new generation of stars began to rise, promising to take the league to even greater heights.
Current Season (2024):
- Key Players:
- Caitlin Clark: Known for her exceptional scoring ability, Clark has become one of the most exciting young players in the league.
- Angel Reese: Reese, who gained fame during the 2023 NCAA tournament, has continued to make headlines with her competitive spirit and dominant performances.
- Key Teams:
- New York Liberty: With the additions of Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones, the Liberty have become a formidable superteam.
- Las Vegas Aces: The Aces, led by A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum, remain one of the top teams, continuing their dominance in the league.
Olympians:
- As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are expected to be strong contenders for spots on the USA Basketball team, signaling the future of American women’s basketball.
Major Controversies and Legal Issues:
Lawsuits:
- Despite improvements in player welfare, the WNBA has faced ongoing criticism and legal challenges regarding travel conditions, particularly around the use of charter flights. This issue remains a significant point of contention as the league looks to balance growth with player comfort.
Criminal Charges:
- The arrest of Phoenix Mercury’s Brittney Griner in Russia on drug charges in 2022 brought international attention to the challenges faced by WNBA players who play overseas due to better pay opportunities. Griner’s eventual release in December 2022, after months of diplomatic negotiations, highlighted the complex intersection of sports, politics, and international relations.
Spotlight on Key Players: 2017-2024
Gabby Williams (Seattle Storm)
Career Overview: Gabby Williams, selected 4th overall in the 2018 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky, is known for her versatility, defensive prowess, and athleticism. After a trade to the Los Angeles Sparks in 2021, Williams missed the season due to commitments with the French national team. She joined the Seattle Storm in 2022, becoming a key player, especially in defense and transition.
International Success: Williams has enjoyed a successful international career, playing in Europe and earning a bronze medal with the French national team at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
Recent Performance: With the Seattle Storm, Williams has been a reliable defender and energy player, crucial in the team’s post-Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart era.
Skylar Diggins-Smith
Career Overview: Skylar Diggins-Smith, drafted 3rd overall by the Tulsa Shock in 2013, has become one of the WNBA’s most recognizable names. A five-time All-Star, Diggins-Smith is known for her scoring, leadership, and competitive spirit. After joining the Phoenix Mercury in 2020, she quickly became a key player, often leading the team in scoring and assists.
Key Achievements: Diggins-Smith has earned multiple All-WNBA honors and was a vital part of the Mercury’s 2021 WNBA Finals run, although they fell short against the Chicago Sky.
Recent Issues: Despite a strong 2022 season, Diggins-Smith faced off-court challenges, including tension with the Mercury’s coaching staff and management. However, she remains a critical player for the team.
A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces)
Career Overview: A’ja Wilson, the first overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft, has quickly established herself as one of the league’s dominant players. Known for her scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking, Wilson has been the cornerstone of the Las Vegas Aces.
Key Achievements: Wilson’s accolades include two WNBA MVP awards (2020 and 2022) and leading the Aces to their first championship in 2022. She also played a crucial role in the USA Basketball team’s gold medal win at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Recent Performance: Wilson continues to dominate the WNBA, being a focal point of the Aces’ success in the 2024 season. Her legacy as one of the all-time greats is well on its way to being cemented.
DiJonai Carrington (Connecticut Sun)
Career Overview: DiJonai Carrington, known for her energy and toughness, has become a key player for the Connecticut Sun. Her defensive prowess and ability to contribute in clutch moments have made her a fan favorite.
Development: Carrington has steadily improved her offensive game, particularly her three-point shooting, making her a more well-rounded player. Her hustle and versatility continue to make her an invaluable asset as the Sun aim for deep playoff runs.
Recent Performance: In the 2024 season, Carrington has further established herself as a key rotation player, contributing both defensively and offensively as the Sun remain contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Conclusion
The WNBA’s journey from 2017 to 2024 has been one of evolution, marked by the rise of superteams, the emergence of new stars, and a steadfast commitment to social advocacy. As the league continues to grow, these narratives will shape its future, inspiring a new generation of fans and players alike.
Stay Updated: Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for more sports updates and behind-the-scenes content from the world of women’s basketball.
Sources:
