The WNBA’s First $500M Team Isn’t Who You Think

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What to Know About Women’s Basketball Today

1. The Valkyries Are Now the WNBA’s Most Valuable Franchise 💸

The Golden State Valkyries were awarded an expansion franchise just last year. Now they’re already the most valuable team in the WNBA.

According to Sportico, the Valkyries are the first $500 million women’s pro team, with projected 2025 revenue of $70 million—double that of any team in 2024. They’ve sold out all 8 home games and were the first team to hit 10,000 season ticket holders. (Sportico - subscription required)

👉 See all 13 franchise valuations

WHY IT MATTERS: This isn’t just about Golden State. Every team’s value is up more than 100% year-over-year, with average valuations rising 180% across the league. The WNBA’s total franchise value now sits at $3.5 billion.

Fueled by the arrival of Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever saw the biggest jump at 273%, climbing to $335 million and ranking third overall. They’re even outselling NBA teams in merch per fan.

2. Report: DeWanna Bonner Wants to Leave the Fever 🔁

Yesterday, we mentioned that DeWanna Bonner had missed five straight games due to personal reasons. Now, we’re getting a little more clarity.

According to Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports, Bonner prefers not to return to play for the Fever, though the reasons behind her request remain unclear. (Front Office Sports)

WHY IT MATTERS: Bonner joined Indiana on a one-year, $200k deal, hoping to help the team make a championship push. The Fever valued her veteran presence and playoff experience. She started the first three games of the season but came off the bench for the next six before stepping away.

She’s now hoping for a move to Phoenix or Atlanta. The Fever could either trade her, though comparable contracts might be hard to find, or waive her to free up cap space.

3. Austin & Ogwumike Earn Player of the Week Honors 🙌

Shakira Austin (Mystics) and Nneka Ogwumike (Storm) have been named Week 5 WNBA Players of the Week. (WNBA)

🎥 Watch Nneka’s emotional reaction

🎥 Watch Shakira’s reaction

WHY IT MATTERS: This is Austin’s first career Player of the Week award. She averaged 19.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks while leading Washington to a 2–1 record.

For Ogwumike, it’s her 15th time receiving the honor, but her first as a member of the Seattle Storm. She averaged 25.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.3 steals last week, powering the Storm to a perfect 3–0 stretch.