Who will win WNBA Most Improved Player 2025? See the top candidates, breakout stats, and how rising stars are reshaping the season.
The race for WNBA Most Improved Player 2025 is heating up—and fans are loving every second of it. As viewership continues to skyrocket, some lesser-known players have taken massive leaps this season, catching the attention of coaches, analysts, and social media. From elevated scoring to expanded roles, this year’s candidates have gone from solid to sensational, playing a huge role in their teams’ playoff pushes.
Let’s take a closer look at who’s leading the pack, what’s fueling their breakout campaigns, and why this award matters in the larger conversation around women’s basketball 2025.
What Is the WNBA Most Improved Player Award?
This award honors the player who has shown the most progress from the previous season, whether through:
- Increased production
- More minutes or responsibility
- Greater impact on wins
- Major skill development
In a league as competitive as the W, improving year to year isn’t easy—making this one of the most respected awards on the ballot.
Why 2025 Has a Deep Pool of MIP Candidates
2025 has been a turning point for many players because:
- Injuries last season gave new players chances to shine
- Coaching changes opened up different roles
- An influx of rookie attention shifted the spotlight, allowing some returning players to quietly thrive
Combine that with soaring WNBA viewership and media attention, and these breakout stories are finally getting the love they deserve.
Top Contenders for WNBA Most Improved Player 2025
| Player | Team | 2024 PPG | 2025 PPG | Notable Stat Jump |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Satou Sabally | Dallas Wings | 13.6 | 19.4 | +5.8 PPG, +3.1 RPG |
| Shakira Austin | Washington Mystics | 8.7 | 15.2 | Doubled scoring, key starter |
| DiJonai Carrington | Connecticut Sun | 5.8 | 12.9 | Career-high in points & steals |
| Ezi Magbegor | Seattle Storm | 9.0 | 14.6 | Emerging as a two-way threat |
| Destanni Henderson | Indiana Fever | 4.2 | 11.3 | Major leap in backup PG role |
These aren’t just statistical flukes—each player is playing more minutes, getting more touches, and delivering.
Satou Sabally: The Front-Runner to Watch
Let’s be real—Satou Sabally is on a mission this season.
- Upped her scoring by nearly 6 points per game
- Shooting 49% from the field and 38% from deep
- Leading the Dallas Wings in scoring and rebounding
- Averaging 1.8 steals per game
She’s not just better—she’s borderline All-Star level. With the Wings fighting for playoff position, her improved play could earn her some postseason hardware.
Shakira Austin’s Breakout for Washington
Despite the Mystics’ rough record, Shakira Austin has become a building block for the future.
- Jumped from 8.7 to 15.2 PPG
- Rebounding and rim protection improved dramatically
- Became the team’s go-to interior scorer after Elena Delle Donne’s minutes decreased
Her development has become one of the few bright spots in D.C., and fans are noticing.
DiJonai Carrington: Under-the-Radar Star
DiJonai Carrington has taken full advantage of her increased role with the Sun.
- Now averaging double-digit points
- Often guards the opponent’s top scorer
- A vocal leader on the court and in the locker room
Her hustle plays go viral weekly, and the Connecticut fan base is pushing hard for her MIP candidacy.
Destanni Henderson: Indiana’s Unsung Hero
While Caitlin Clark gets most of the spotlight in Indiana, Destanni Henderson has quietly leveled up.
- Key contributor off the bench
- Improved her three-point shooting from 29% to 42%
- Averaging 11.3 PPG in just 22 minutes per game
Her play has stabilized the Fever’s second unit and provided much-needed veteran presence for Clark.
Ezi Magbegor: The Storm’s New Star
Ezi Magbegor might not be on every casual fan’s radar—but she should be.
- Leading Seattle in scoring and blocks
- A matchup nightmare with her length and mobility
- Her improvement has turned Seattle into a potential playoff spoiler
Watch her in big games—she’s quietly becoming one of the best two-way bigs in the league.
What Fans Are Saying on Social Media
The MIP conversation is catching fire across TikTok, Instagram, and X.
“Sabally’s improvement is INSANE. All-Star for sure.”
“Shakira Austin just needed the minutes—she’s a beast.”
“Carrington plays with heart. She’s my pick.”
“People sleep on Destanni Henderson. She’s a gamer.”
The hashtags #WNBAMostImproved and #MIP2025 have seen over 5 million impressions in July alone.
How WNBA Endorsements Tie into Player Growth
As these players rise, so does their marketability.
- Satou Sabally signed a deal with Nike Europe
- Carrington became the face of Athleta’s new performance line
- Magbegor is now a spokesperson for FIBA’s global campaign
- Henderson has a regional partnership with Dick’s Sporting Goods
Improved play leads to visibility—and that leads to endorsement opportunities and long-term brand partnerships.
Why This Award Matters More in 2025
This season, the Most Improved Player award isn’t just about numbers—it’s about narrative.
With the league expanding its reach and the talent pool deepening, this award highlights the importance of development, coaching, and role optimization. It also gives fans a chance to connect with players who don’t always get national headlines—but absolutely deserve them.
Conclusion: WNBA Most Improved Player 2025 Is One of the League’s Tightest Races
The race for WNBA Most Improved Player 2025 is packed with talent, emotion, and growth. Whether it’s Satou Sabally dominating for the Wings or Shakira Austin stepping into stardom in D.C., these players are redefining their careers—and helping grow the game in the process.
Don’t just follow the MVP conversation. Keep your eyes on the MIP race—it’s where true evolution happens.
FAQs
1. Who is the front-runner for WNBA Most Improved Player 2025?
Satou Sabally currently leads the race, thanks to her scoring jump and team impact.
2. What are the criteria for Most Improved Player?
Players must show significant progress from the previous season in stats, role, and performance.
3. Has a second-year player ever won MIP in the WNBA?
Yes, second-year breakouts are often strong contenders for this award.
4. Is Caitlin Clark eligible for MIP?
No, rookies are not eligible. Clark is in the Rookie of the Year race.
5. Where can I follow MIP updates?
Check WNBA.com and follow hashtags like #MIP2025 on social media for live updates.
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