As the WNBA season draws to a close, a storm of uncertainty and excitement is brewing on the horizon. With over 30 guards potentially changing teams this offseason, the league is on the brink of a seismic shift that could redefine its landscape. But here’s where it gets controversial: amidst a looming lockout threat and an unprecedented number of free agents, which guards will stay loyal to their teams, and who will seek greener pastures? Let’s dive into the top contenders and the drama that surrounds them.
5. Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas Wings
Arike Ogunbowale has been a cornerstone of the Dallas Wings since her 2019 draft selection, boasting an impressive career average of 19.9 points per game and four All-Star appearances. However, her 2023 season saw a dip to 15.5 points per game and a 30.4% field goal percentage, partly due to a lack of on-court synergy with Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers. And this is the part most people miss: her struggles this season have sparked rumors of a potential departure, leaving fans wondering if she’ll don a new jersey next year.
4. Kelsey Plum, Los Angeles Sparks
After seven years with the Las Vegas Aces, Kelsey Plum found a new home with the Los Angeles Sparks last offseason. She thrived in her new role, leading the team with 19.5 points per game and nearly guiding them to a playoff berth. While Plum seems content in L.A., the WNBA’s unpredictable nature means a move isn’t entirely off the table. But here’s the question: will the Sparks be able to retain her, or will another team swoop in with a compelling offer?
3. Jackie Young, Las Vegas Aces
Jackie Young has been a consistent force for the Aces, averaging 16.5 points per game this season. As one of three Aces stars hitting free agency—alongside A’ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray—her future is a hot topic. The real controversy lies here: if the Aces win the championship, will that be enough to keep her in Las Vegas, or will she explore opportunities elsewhere? The stakes are high, and the outcome could reshape the league’s power dynamics.
2. Sabrina Ionescu, New York Liberty
Sabrina Ionescu, alongside Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones, forms the Liberty’s “Big Three,” all of whom are free agents this offseason. Adding to the drama, the sudden firing of head coach Sandy Brondello has left fans and analysts speculating about its impact on their decisions. Here’s the kicker: while GM Jonathan Kolb expressed confidence in their return, the uncertainty surrounding Brondello’s departure could be a game-changer. Will Ionescu stay loyal to New York, or will this shakeup push her toward a new challenge?
1. Kelsey Mitchell, Indiana Fever
Kelsey Mitchell has been the heart and soul of the Indiana Fever, averaging 20.2 points per game and leading the team to the semifinals despite significant injuries to her teammates. Her performance earned her a top-5 spot in the MVP race, solidifying her status as one of the league’s elite guards. But here’s the million-dollar question: after six years with only two playoff appearances, will Mitchell stay to build on the Fever’s recent success, or will she take her talents elsewhere? Her decision could define the WNBA’s future.
As the offseason unfolds, these storylines will dominate headlines, sparking debates and dividing opinions. What do you think? Will loyalty prevail, or will the allure of new opportunities reshape the league? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
