The WNBA season has come to an end for this year. However, things are far from over. That is because in one of the biggest changes coming up, the CBA negotiations deadline is approaching on October 31. The situation has become even more complicated than ever. With athletes looking to gain maximum momentum, the likes of Charles Barkley have warned them against overplaying their hands.
On the contrary, apart from the CBA talks, another interesting situation that will unfold is free agency. With many teams looking to improve their current squads, free agency will provide them with an opportunity to upgrade for the upcoming season. And while there are a host of names that can be considered, here are the top 5 talents that other teams might target the most.
Top 5 Stars In The Upcoming WNBA Free Agency
From Sabrina Ionescu to Kelsey Mitchell, there are a lot of names doing the rounds in the upcoming free agency. However, in today’s list, there are five top agents who might realistically be looking for a switch.
5. Kahleah Copper
The Phoenix Mercury had one of the biggest turnarounds this year. While they did play decently, their playoff form was impeccable. Getting the better of the Minnesota Lynx, the Mercury rampaged into the finals. And one of the key contributors to Mercury’s rise was undoubtedly Kahleah Copper. After her team fell to a 4-0 loss in the finals, Copper sent her heartfelt motivation to her Mercury teammates.
Looking at her performance, Copper averaged 15.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.1 steals. She also impressed largely with her off-ball skills, downhill attacking, and more. Certainly, Copper will likely be a top pick for teams looking to rebuild.
4. Ezi Magbegor
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A look at her averages this season will not do justice to Ezi Magbegor. She came in with a lot of promise. Unfortunately, the Storm star could not deliver as per the expectations around her.
The Seattle Storm star only managed an average of 8.0 points per game, with a meagre 6.2 rebounds. However, in her defense, one of the main reasons might have been Magbegor getting overshadowed by Gabby Williams this season. But a single poor season does not define success.
In fact, she did show glimpses of her talent by narrowly leading the blocks list in the league. Thus, it is evident that Magbegor will turn out to be one of the biggest catches if she does want to explore new options.
3. Satou Sabally
Satou Sabally had been one of the pillars of the Mercury side. The 27-year-old, combined with the likes of Alyssa Thomas, helped Phoenix reach the finals. With an average of 16.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals, Sabally has proved why she would be an asset for any team she is a part of. Unfortunately, her season came to a screeching halt in Game 3 of the finals.
With the Las Vegas Aces reigning supreme with a 2-0 lead, Sabally had a brutal clash. And it led to her suffering from a concussion. However, as she recovers, her smooth pick-and-rolls and handoffs will come in handy for teams looking to get a prized catch.
2. Nneka Ogwumike
For many, Nneka Ogwumike’s entry into the list would come as a surprise. That’s because at 35, the WNBA veteran is considered to have left her best playing days behind. But the Seattle Storm star’s performance this season says otherwise.
Even at her age, Ogwumike has emerged as a dynamic scorer on the block. The Storm star also recorded a career high in three-point attempts, showcasing her tenacity towards betterment even at 35.
This year, Ogwumike dropped averages of 18.3 points per game, with 7.0 rebounds and 1.1 steals. Thus, it is evident that if the Storm decides to let go of her, there will be a lot of suitors to take home the veteran star.
1. Jonquel Jones
The defending champions had quite a rough season this year. Right from the beginning, the New York Liberty struggled to get into the groove. And while they did qualify for the playoffs, the Liberty’s campaign crashed out in a pretty somber manner. And surely, it looks like the front office will opt for a major shakeup in the coming days.
If that indeed happens, one of the hotshots that the rival teams will look to acquire is Jonquel Jones. With averages of 13.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks, Jones had been a rock on defense. Moreover, whenever Jones had a double-double, the Liberty’s win percentage shot through the roof.
Surely, things are looking extremely interesting at the moment. And with so many things happening around the WNBA at once, fans will be excited to see what transpires next.