The WNBA landscape is shifting fast — and there’s a new team on everyone’s timeline: The Valkyries. Despite being one of the league’s newest expansion franchises, the buzz surrounding them is off the charts. From viral social media clips to record-breaking merch sales and celebrity attention, fans are starting to ask the big question:

Are the Valkyries already the most popular team in the WNBA?

And while excitement brews around this rising squad, the Indiana Fever are making headlines of their own — with key roster cuts and updates on their high-profile rookies, including Caitlin Clark and others navigating their first WNBA preseason.

Let’s dive in.

The Valkyries Are Winning the Popularity Game

Even before playing a regular-season game, the Valkyries have captured the attention of basketball fans and pop culture alike. Their branding is bold, their marketing is modern, and their roster is electric — blending rising stars with proven veterans in a way that just feels right.

Their official team launch went viral within hours.

Jerseys sold out in minutes.

TikTok and Instagram are flooded with Valkyries content — from behind-the-scenes training to player fashion and highlight reels.

This level of attention rivals some of the league’s legacy franchises. While teams like the Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty dominate on-court, the Valkyries are proving that off-court presence matters more than ever.

And don’t forget the celebrity cosigns — from music artists to athletes in other leagues, the Valkyries are the “cool” team to watch. If this is the future of WNBA branding, the Valkyries might just be leading the revolution.

Indiana Fever Roster Cuts: Tough But Necessary

Meanwhile, in Indiana, the Fever are making serious moves as they finalize their roster ahead of the season. With only 12 spots available and an influx of rookie talent, the front office was forced to make some difficult decisions.

Notable recent cuts include:

[Insert waived player names here — if available]

Surprise decisions that show Indiana is prioritizing fit, defense, and spacing around their franchise pieces.

These moves are strategic — not reactionary. With Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and key veterans expected to carry the franchise into a new era, the Fever are clearing space for complementary players who can contribute now and grow with the team long-term.

Rookie Watch: Caitlin Clark & Co.

All eyes remain on Caitlin Clark, and rightfully so. The former Iowa star has looked poised, confident, and electric in her preseason outings. Her shooting range stretches defenses, her passing continues to impress, and the chemistry with Boston is beginning to click.

Other rookies making early impressions:

Kamilla Cardoso (CHI) – dominating the paint with size and rebounding instincts.

Rickea Jackson (LA) – showing flashes of elite shot creation.

Angel Reese (CHI) – bringing grit, energy, and presence on both ends of the floor.

This rookie class might be one of the most hyped and talented the league has seen in years — and so far, they’re living up to it.

Final Take: The Future Is Now

Between the Valkyries’ meteoric rise in fan engagement and the Fever’s careful roster shaping around a generational rookie, it’s clear: the WNBA is in a golden moment of growth.

Whether you’re tuning in for the new faces, flashy brands, or fierce competition, one thing is certain — the league has never felt more alive.