The WNBA Expansion Draft 2025 is coming. See predictions, protected player lists, and what it means for the future of women’s basketball.
The WNBA Expansion Draft 2025 is already generating buzz as the league prepares to grow for the first time in over a decade. With the league riding high on increased viewership, record-breaking attendance, and the rookie hype led by Caitlin Clark, expansion isn’t just coming—it’s necessary.
Whether you’re a hardcore fan or new to women’s basketball 2025, the upcoming expansion draft could change the landscape of the WNBA. Let’s break down the rules, possible player moves, team protection strategies, and how fans are reacting to one of the most anticipated off-court events of the year.
Why the WNBA Is Expanding in 2025
After years of speculation, Commissioner Cathy Engelbert confirmed in early 2025 that the league will add two new franchises for the 2026 season.
Reasons for Expansion:
- Record TV ratings: 2025 regular-season broadcasts are up 54% year-over-year.
- Rookie surge: The league is booming with young talent like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Cameron Brink, and more.
- Limited roster spots: Too many top-tier college athletes have been cut due to roster shortages.
Adding more teams solves a lot of problems—and creates new excitement.
How the WNBA Expansion Draft Works
An expansion draft allows new teams to select players from current teams. But don’t worry—there are rules to protect stars and core rosters.
Draft Rules at a Glance:
- Each existing team can protect 5–6 players.
- Unprotected players can be selected by expansion teams.
- No team can lose more than 1 player in the expansion draft.
- Newly signed free agents are exempt.
- Rookies entering in 2026 are not eligible.
While we’re still waiting on final confirmation from the WNBA, these guidelines closely mirror previous drafts (like in 2008).
Predicted Protected Players by Team
Here’s a speculative list of players teams will likely protect in the 2025 WNBA Expansion Draft:
| Team | Likely Protected Players |
|---|---|
| Indiana Fever | Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, NaLyssa Smith, Erica Wheeler, Katie Lou Samuelson |
| Chicago Sky | Angel Reese, Marina Mabrey, Kamilla Cardoso, Elizabeth Williams, Dana Evans |
| Las Vegas Aces | A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, Alysha Clark |
| New York Liberty | Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, Betnijah Laney, Courtney Vandersloot |
| LA Sparks | Cameron Brink, Rickea Jackson, Dearica Hamby, Kia Nurse, Layshia Clarendon |
Some teams will face tough choices—depth vs. star power.
Cities Confirmed for Expansion
As of July 2025, the league has officially announced the two expansion cities:
- Portland, Oregon – Returning to the WNBA after the Portland Fire folded in 2002.
- Toronto, Canada – The league’s first international team, following a wildly successful exhibition game in 2023.
Both cities are basketball hotbeds with strong fan support, NBA infrastructure, and market potential.
Top Players Who Might Be Available
While stars like Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson are untouchable, a few high-profile names might become available due to roster crunch.
Possible Unprotected Players:
- Lexie Hull (Fever)
- DiJonai Carrington (Sun)
- Kalani Brown (Wings)
- Evina Westbrook (Mystics)
- Michaela Onyenwere (Sky)
Teams have to gamble—protect rising talent or trusted vets?
TV Ratings & Viewership Impact
The WNBA’s expansion strategy is directly tied to its rising media footprint:
- The 2025 All-Star Game drew 2.5 million viewers.
- Clark and Reese games are regularly trending on TikTok.
- League Pass subscriptions are at an all-time high.
The expansion draft will likely be televised live and promoted across ESPN, ABC, and social platforms.
Fan Reaction: Mixed but Mostly Excited
What fans are saying:
“Finally! More teams mean more jobs for amazing college players.”
“Please don’t let my favorite bench player go unprotected 😩”
“We need expansion—but also better salaries and charter flights.”
While excitement dominates, some fans also want to see the league improve player conditions and market existing teams before adding more.
Endorsements and Market Growth Potential
Expansion also opens up new sponsorship and endorsement deals for players and teams:
- Toronto’s team is rumored to be backed by Drake’s business group.
- Portland could reignite interest from Nike, headquartered just miles away.
More markets = more exposure = more money for players and the league overall.
What to Watch Before the Expansion Draft
Leading up to the 2025 offseason, keep your eyes on:
- Free agency moves (teams may sign players they plan to protect)
- Injury reports (a sidelined player might be left exposed)
- Rookie performances (some teams may risk losing younger talent)
Coaches and GMs will play chess, not checkers. Expect surprises.
Final Thoughts: The Expansion Draft Is a Turning Point
The WNBA Expansion Draft 2025 isn’t just about player movement. It’s a milestone that shows how far the league has come—and how far it’s ready to go. From media exposure to young talent to fan engagement, everything points to one truth: women’s basketball is thriving, and the next chapter begins now.
🗳️ Which player do YOU think will be a surprise pick in the 2025 Expansion Draft?
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External Link: WNBA Official Site
FAQs
1. When is the WNBA Expansion Draft 2025 scheduled?
The exact date hasn’t been confirmed but is expected in the 2025 offseason, likely October or November.
2. How many players can each expansion team pick?
Each new team can select one unprotected player from each existing team.
3. Will rookies be part of the expansion draft?
No, incoming rookies from the 2026 draft class are not eligible for selection.
4. Can teams trade protected spots?
Yes. Past drafts allowed trades involving protection agreements or pick swaps.
5. Why is expansion important for the WNBA?
It increases roster spots, grows the fan base, boosts revenue, and reflects the league’s rising popularity.
