The Top 25 WNBA Players (Right Now) Are In...

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What to Know About Women’s Basketball Today

1. ESPN Drops Midseason Top 25 WNBA Players 📋

ESPN just released its updated rankings of the top 25 WNBA players based on performance so far this season, and there’s a shakeup. Napheesa Collier lands at No. 1 for the first time, and seven new names have joined the list since preseason.

👉 Check out the full list

WHY IT MATTERS: Unlike ESPN’s preseason rankings, this list reflects what’s happening right now, not past accolades or hype. That means in-season impact and consistency matter most. Rookies also made the cut this time, making the list a great snapshot of who’s dominating 2025 (so far). Of course, ESPN’s player rankings are always subjective, so you’re bound to disagree with some of the list.

2. Athletes Unlimited Announces 14 Players Ahead of 2026 Season 👏

Athletes Unlimited (AU) just announced 14 signings—new and returning—for its fifth season, which kicks off this February in Nashville. (Athletes Unlimited)

• Newcomers include: Ariel Atkins, Te-Hina Paopao, Jacy Sheldon, and Kiah Stokes

• Returners include: Alysha Clark, Sydney Colson, Isabelle Harrison, Lexie Brown, Kia Nurse, NaLyssa Smith, Odyssey Sims, Jaylyn Sherrod, Kia Nurse, and Theresa Plaisance

WHY IT MATTERS: AU has carved out a unique offseason space for women’s pro basketball in the U.S., giving both WNBA and non-WNBA athletes a competitive, high-profile league during the winter. These 14 players bring serious winner pedigree, representing 8 WNBA first-rounders, 11 WNBA titles, and 6 NCAA championships. They should help the league continue to build momentum as it comes off its record-attendance fourth season.

3. Rhyne Howard to Miss All-Star Game with Knee Injury 😔

Atlanta Dream star Rhyne Howard will miss the rest of July after injuring her knee in Friday’s game against the Fever. (Yahoo Sports)

WHY IT MATTERS: Howard had been named to her third All-Star team and was set to play for Team Collier this weekend, but the injury takes her out of the lineup, as well as off the court for the next few weeks. She’s averaging 16.5 points, 5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, and her absence will be a major challenge for the Dream, who currently sit No. 5 in the standings at 12–9.