The 2025 WNBA season has delivered a wave of breakout performances, and we’re not just talking about the rookies. This year has been full of glow-ups, from second-year standouts finding their rhythm to veterans reinventing themselves in new cities.
Whether it’s someone who climbed the chart or a former player leading their team, the league is full of players who leveled up. These hoopers showed up in 2025 with something to prove—and are delivering absolutely.
15. Dana Evans (Las Vegas Aces)
Evans has taken full advantage of a bigger role with the Aces, becoming a spark plug off the bench. She’s giving the champs a reliable scoring punch and proving she can hold her own in high-stakes moments.
14. Veronica Burton (Golden State Valkyries)
Burton has stepped into a bigger role this season and is making the most of it with her defensive grit and improved playmaking. She’s showing real growth on both ends of the floor and proving she can be a steady backcourt presence.
13. Jade Melbourne (Washington Mystics)
Melbourne is seeing more minutes this year and making them count with steady all-around play. She’s become a big part of the Mystics’ youth movement and is making a name for herself fast.
12. Kate Martin (Golden State Valkyries)
Martin has quietly emerged as one of the Valkyries’ most consistent contributors. Her improved defense and timely scoring are helping Golden State stay competitive in its debut season.
11. Shakira Austin (Washington Mystics)
Now healthy, Austin is showing the kind of impact player she can be when fully unleashed. Her paint presence has been a massive boost for the Mystics on both ends of the floor.
10. Monique Billings (Golden State Valkyries)
Billings has stepped up in a big way for the expansion Valkyries, turning into a regular double-double threat. She’s thriving with the increased responsibility and looking more confident than ever.
9. Leonie Fiebich (New York Liberty)
Fiebich has taken a bigger role in the Liberty rotation thanks to her defense and improved offensive game. She’s one of those players who does a little of everything, and now people notice.
8. Brionna Jones (Atlanta Dream)
Jones immediately splashed with Atlanta, giving the Dream a veteran presence down low. Her strong start has helped anchor their frontcourt and given them a reliable scoring option inside.
7. Maddy Siegrist (Dallas Wings)
Siegrist has taken a major leap this year. She looks far more confident on offense and crashes the boards with authority. Her increased minutes and production have made her a vital part of Dallas’ rotation.
6. Aliyah Boston (Indiana Fever)
Boston has added even more to her game this season, becoming a true offensive centerpiece. She’s routinely posting monster stat lines and leading Indiana’s playoff charge.
5. Courtney Williams (Minnesota Lynx)
Williams has taken her playmaking to the next level, nearly doubling her assist numbers from last season. She’s become the engine behind Minnesota’s offense and a tough matchup every night.
4. Brittney Sykes (Washington Mystics)
Sykes went from lockdown defender to full-on scoring machine this year. She’s been one of the most fun players thanks to her all-around explosion.
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3. Rhyne Howard (Atlanta Dream)
Howard didn’t just level up—she launched into the stratosphere. Her scoring, defense, and leadership are all on display, and she’s one of the league’s brightest young stars.
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2. Kamilla Cardoso (Chicago Sky)
Cardoso’s sophomore jump has been massive, and she’s now waiting for a double-double. She owns the paint and gives Chicago a foundation to build around.
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1. Lexie Hull (Indiana Fever)
Hull has completely revamped her offensive game this season and looks more assertive and confident every time she steps on the court. She’s become a trusted piece in Indiana’s rotation and thrives with the added responsibility.
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