The 2024 WNBA season kicked off in unforgettable style. Rookies such as Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Cameron Brink made their professional debuts. Meanwhile, stars like A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart and Alyssa Thomas continued to shine as they did in 2023. Here's this week’s WNBA power rankings after the first week:
1. Las Vegas Aces (2-0)
The Aces have started the season strong, even without Chelsea Gray. A'ja Wilson has been spectacular, averaging 26 points, 11.5 rebounds, and three assists per game for the 2024 regular season so far, via ESPN. Jackie Young has stepped up in Gray's absence, averaging 8.5 assists and 22.5 points per game. The Aces have the highest defensive efficiency in the league, allowing just 76 points per game. Despite an ongoing league investigation into player sponsorships, the Aces remain focused on the court.
2. New York Liberty (3-0)
The Liberty are off to a perfect start, largely thanks to Breanna Stewart's dominance. Stewart is averaging 21 points, 7.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. Jonquel Jones has been equally impressive, averaging a double-double with 17.7 points and 10 rebounds. The Liberty lead the league in offensive rating (112.6, as reported by Jack Maloney of CBS Sports) and net rating (plus-21.8). Their bench depth, including key contributions from Nyara Sabally, has been crucial in maintaining their early success.
3. Connecticut Sun (2-0)
Connecticut's veteran core is leading the way, with Alyssa Thomas already recording a triple-double. Thomas is averaging 13 points, 10.5 rebounds and 9.5 assists per game. DiJonai Carrington's emergence has been a game-changer; she averaged 18.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in the first two games. The Sun's defense remains a cornerstone, allowing just 72 points per game, the second-best in the league.
4. Minnesota Lynx (2-0)
The Lynx have surprised many with their strong start, including a double-overtime thriller against Seattle. Napheesa Collier is playing at an MVP level, averaging 24.5 points, 10.5 rebounds and 3.5 steals per game. Alanna Smith has made an immediate impact, averaging 19 points and 6.5 rebounds in her first two games. The Lynx's defensive tenacity is evident, as they lead the league in steals per game (11.5).
5. Phoenix Mercury (1-1)
Without Brittney Griner, the Mercury have relied on Kahleah Copper, who scored a career-high 38 points against Atlanta. Diana Taurasi's shooting from beyond the arc has been crucial, as she is hitting 45% of her three-point attempts. The Mercury's new offensive system focuses on high-efficiency shots, contributing to their early success despite setbacks.
6. Seattle Storm (1-2)
Seattle salvaged a tough opening week with a win over the Mystics. Despite injuries and visa issues, the Storm showed resilience. Jewell Loyd is finding her rhythm, averaging 18 points per game, and Nneka Ogwumike's return will bolster their chances. The Storm's offensive rating (89.5) needs improvement, but their potential remains high.
7. Atlanta Dream (1-1)
Rhyne Howard has been a standout, averaging 23 points on 51.6% shooting. Tina Charles' return to the WNBA has provided a boost, with averages of 13.5 points and 8.5 rebounds, per Alexa Philippou of ESPN. The Dream's defense needs to tighten up, but their offensive efficiency (45.5% field goal percentage) is promising as they head into their home opener.
8. Dallas Wings (1-1)
Injuries have hit the Wings hard, with Satou Sabally and Natasha Howard sidelined. Arike Ogunbowale's scoring has been a bright spot, averaging 30 points per game with a 40% three-point shooting percentage. The Wings' turnover issues (26 turnovers in their second game) need addressing if they are to improve their standings.
9. Chicago Sky (1-1)
Angel Reese is finding her footing, contributing 11.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Veterans like Diamond DeShields and Chennedy Carter have been pivotal, with DeShields averaging 15 points per game. The Sky's offensive rebounding rate (42.2%) is the best in the league, giving them extra opportunities to score.
10. Los Angeles Sparks (0-2)
The Sparks are winless but competitive, with WNBA rookies Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson showing promise. Brink is averaging 3.5 blocks per game, while Jackson is shooting 50% from the field. Defense remains a concern, as they allow 109.7 points per 100 possessions, but their young core is showing potential.
11. Washington Mystics (0-3)
The Mystics have been competitive, with single-digit losses in all games. Brittney Sykes' injury has hurt, but rookies Aaliyah Edwards and Julie Vanloo are contributing. Edwards is averaging seven points and 4.3 rebounds, while Vanloo leads the team with 5.7 assists per game. The Mystics need to find ways to close out games to turn their fortunes around.
12. Indiana Fever (0-3)
Caitlin Clark's debut has been challenging, with the Fever struggling offensively and defensively. Clark is averaging 17 points and 5.7 assists but has faced tough defenses. The Fever's minus-68 point differential and their defensive efficiency (allowing 95 points per game) are areas needing significant improvement.
The first week has set the stage for an exciting WNBA season. The Aces and Liberty are early favorites, but teams like the Lynx and Sun are proving they can compete. Meanwhile, rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are adjusting to the professional level, adding intrigue to each game. The season is young, and the power rankings will undoubtedly shift as teams find their rhythm and injured players return.
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