WNBA Expansion Draft 2025: Rules, Predictions & Players Most Likely to Move
With the league adding two new franchises in 2025—Golden State Valkyries and Toronto (name TBD)—the upcoming WNBA Expansion Draft 2025 is generating serious buzz. Fans and insiders alike are wondering: which stars will stay, who’s on the move, and how will this reshape women’s basketball 2025?
This draft isn’t just about roster changes—it’s about ushering in a bold new era. Expansion means new markets, new rivalries, and a whole lot of new storylines.
Let’s break down the draft rules, potential unprotected players, and what this means for fan favorites like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and more.
How Does the WNBA Expansion Draft Work?
The WNBA’s expansion draft follows a format similar to past expansions. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
- Each existing team can protect 6 players.
- Teams can only lose 1 player max to the expansion pool.
- The two new franchises (Golden State and Toronto) will alternate picks from the list of unprotected players.
- No unrestricted free agents can be selected.
- Rookies drafted in 2025 are not eligible for selection.
The draft will be held in December 2025, giving teams plenty of time to strategize and make offseason moves before final rosters are locked.
Key Dates and Timeline
- WNBA Season Ends: Mid-October 2025
- Final Player Protection Lists Submitted: Early December
- WNBA Expansion Draft Date: December 15, 2025 (tentative)
- Training Camp for New Franchises: Spring 2026
Likely Unprotected Players (Early Predictions)
| Team | Likely Unprotected Player | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Aces | Riquna Williams | Depth piece, aging guard |
| New York Liberty | Marine Johannès | Overseas commitment risk |
| Chicago Sky | Courtney Williams | Veteran, may test free agency |
| Connecticut Sun | Natisha Hiedeman | Valuable but replaceable backup guard |
| Dallas Wings | Awak Kuier | Limited playing time in 2025 |
| Indiana Fever | Kristy Wallace | Too many guards ahead of her |
| Phoenix Mercury | Sophie Cunningham | May be moved in a separate trade |
| Seattle Storm | Kia Nurse | Role player, inconsistent minutes |
Note: These are projected picks and subject to change as trades and late-season performances shift team priorities.
Expansion Targets: Who Are the Most Valuable Unprotected Assets?
Some players who could realistically be available and immediately valuable:
- Sophie Cunningham: A gritty, three-point threat with starting experience.
- Natisha Hiedeman: Can run the point and space the floor—ideal for a young expansion team.
- Courtney Williams: Veteran leadership and proven scorer, great for Toronto’s debut season.
- Kia Nurse: Canadian star who could become the face of the Toronto team.
Could Fan Favorites Like Caitlin Clark Be at Risk?
No chance. Players like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson, and Breanna Stewart will 100% be protected by their teams. But that doesn’t mean some well-known names won’t be exposed.
Rosters are limited, and tough decisions are coming. Some fan-favorite role players are bound to be left out.
Impact on Team Chemistry and Star Duos
Expansion drafts don’t just change rosters—they shake locker rooms.
- Will the Aces risk losing Chelsea Gray to protect a younger guard?
- Could New York Liberty split up their superteam core?
- Does Indiana risk exposing a rising rookie like Lexie Hull?
These decisions will define franchises—especially new ones looking to make an immediate impact.
What the Expansion Draft Means for the WNBA’s Growth
This is more than just a draft—it’s a league milestone.
Why this matters:
- Brings WNBA to two major markets (San Francisco Bay Area and Toronto).
- Opens new revenue streams through international viewership and merchandise.
- Attracts fresh endorsements, especially for players joining high-profile cities.
- Increases roster spots, which has long been a challenge for women’s basketball.
The WNBA is investing in long-term success, and this expansion is just the start.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Twitter/X and Reddit threads are already loaded with mock drafts, emotional predictions, and wishlists.
Here’s what fans are saying:
- “Please don’t let Kia Nurse go anywhere but Toronto 🇨🇦”
- “This expansion draft is gonna be wild. Can’t protect everybody!”
- “I’m not ready to lose my favorite bench player 😭 but I get it…”
Fans are bracing for drama—and secretly hoping their teams dodge the worst.
TV Ratings Will Spike Around Expansion Night
The WNBA has confirmed the 2025 Expansion Draft will be nationally televised, likely on ESPN2 or ABC.
Why it matters:
- Viewership for offseason events like the 2025 Draft (Clark, Reese) broke record numbers.
- Fans are hungry for offseason content and behind-the-scenes access.
- Expect real-time fan reactions, interviews, and instant analysis.
This could be the highest-rated WNBA offseason broadcast to date.
Conclusion: WNBA Expansion Draft 2025 Will Reshape the Future
The WNBA Expansion Draft 2025 is more than a technicality—it’s a once-in-a-generation shift. New teams, new players, and new fanbases are about to explode onto the scene. Whether you’re rooting for your team to keep its core or hoping to see your favorite player in a new jersey, this is a moment you won’t want to miss.
🚨 What player do you think is most likely to be taken? Drop your predictions in the comments and let’s talk draft strategy!
FAQs
1. When is the WNBA Expansion Draft 2025?
Tentatively scheduled for December 15, 2025, after the regular season and free agency.
2. How many players can a team protect?
Each existing WNBA team can protect up to 6 players.
3. Which teams are joining the league in 2025–2026?
Golden State Valkyries and a new Toronto-based franchise.
4. Can star players like Caitlin Clark or Angel Reese be selected?
No. Their teams will definitely protect them, and they’re ineligible under rookie rules.
5. Where can I watch the expansion draft?
The WNBA will air it on ESPN or ABC and stream it on WNBA.com.
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🌐 External Source: WNBA Official Website
