As the 2025 WNBA season inches closer, the conversation surrounding the coveted WNBA MVP award is already heating up. While the season hasn’t even officially tipped off yet, media outlets, analysts, and fans alike have already begun making predictions about who will take home the prestigious honor. With a variety of superstars leading their respective teams, the race for MVP is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years.

So, who is the media’s early favorite to win the MVP award, and are there any other contenders who could challenge for the title? Let’s take a closer look at the candidates, the stats, and the storyline that could determine who emerges as the WNBA’s Most Valuable Player.

The Early Favorite: A’ja Wilson

A’ja Wilson, the dominant forward for the Las Vegas Aces, is once again the media’s pick to take home the MVP award. After securing the MVP honor in 2020 and leading her team to a championship in 2022, Wilson has established herself as one of the premier players in the league. Her combination of size, athleticism, and skill makes her a nightmare for opponents on both ends of the floor.

In 2024, Wilson continued her reign as one of the most consistent and unstoppable forces in the WNBA. Averaging 20.0+ points, 9.0+ rebounds, and 2.0+ blocks per game, she is an integral part of the Aces’ success and one of the league’s best two-way players. Her ability to dominate in the paint while also stretching the floor makes her an offensive powerhouse, while her defensive presence anchors Las Vegas’ formidable defense.

For Wilson, the MVP race will be about maintaining her high level of play and leading the Aces to another top seed in the playoffs. If she can continue her dominance and stay healthy, she’s the player to beat.

Breanna Stewart: The New York Liberty’s Superstar

Breanna Stewart, another MVP-caliber player, is always in the conversation. After joining the New York Liberty in 2023, Stewart has continued to elevate her game to new heights. Stewart, a two-time MVP, brings an unmatched level of scoring ability, versatility, and leadership to the Liberty. In 2024, she helped lead the Liberty to one of the best records in the league and proved herself to be one of the most dynamic forwards in the WNBA.

What makes Stewart such a strong MVP candidate is her all-around game. She can score from anywhere on the court, whether it’s posting up, shooting from the three-point line, or pulling up for mid-range jumpers. In addition to her scoring, she’s also an elite rebounder and playmaker, consistently filling up the box score across multiple categories. Stewart’s impact on both sides of the ball makes her a top contender for the MVP award.

If Stewart can continue to lead the Liberty to a top seed in the Eastern Conference and continue putting up dominant numbers, she’ll be a force to reckon with in the MVP race.

Jewel Lloyd: The Seattle Storm’s Offensive Spark

One player who may fly under the radar but certainly has MVP potential is Jewel Lloyd of the Seattle Storm. While Lloyd is often overshadowed by the likes of Wilson and Stewart, her performance over the past few seasons has been nothing short of spectacular. In 2024, Lloyd took her game to the next level, leading the Storm with her scoring, playmaking, and leadership.

As the primary offensive weapon for Seattle, Lloyd carries the bulk of the scoring load. Her ability to drive to the basket, shoot from deep, and create for her teammates makes her a dangerous player in any situation. If Lloyd can keep up her high level of play throughout the season and lead the Storm into the playoff conversation, she could become a legitimate MVP contender.

What’s also exciting about Lloyd is her continued growth as a leader. With veteran players around her, Lloyd has the opportunity to shine even more as Seattle looks to rebuild and get back into title contention. Her individual brilliance combined with her team success could help elevate her into the MVP conversation.

Can Sabrina Ionescu Make the Leap?

Sabrina Ionescu of the New York Liberty is another player to keep an eye on for the MVP award. Ionescu’s skill set is undeniable, as she’s known for her incredible shooting range, court vision, and leadership. While she’s been incredibly productive since entering the league, 2025 could be the year Ionescu takes the next step into the MVP conversation.

In 2024, Ionescu showed flashes of brilliance, leading her team in assists and making critical plays down the stretch. If she can build on that momentum and continue to develop her game as the Liberty’s primary playmaker, Ionescu could see her name rise further in MVP discussions.

Her ability to stretch the floor with her shooting and create for others makes her a unique talent, and with Stewart already drawing plenty of attention, Ionescu could emerge as a true MVP candidate if the Liberty have a strong season.

Other Dark Horse Candidates

While Wilson, Stewart, and Lloyd are the obvious favorites, the MVP race often has its surprises. There are several players who could emerge as dark horses, including:

Kelsey Plum (Las Vegas Aces): Plum has established herself as a dynamic scorer and playmaker and is a crucial part of the Aces’ success. If she continues to improve, she could be an MVP contender.

Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx): Collier has been one of the most consistent players in the league. If she can lead the Lynx to a strong season, she might finally get the recognition she deserves.

Candace Parker (Las Vegas Aces): As one of the most accomplished players in WNBA history, Parker could add another MVP to her resume if she stays healthy and contributes to the Aces’ success.

Who Will Win?

While the MVP race is always full of twists and turns, the media consensus seems to favor A’ja Wilson as the frontrunner. With her ability to impact both ends of the court and lead her team to success, Wilson’s chance of winning a second MVP is certainly high. However, players like Breanna Stewart and Jewel Lloyd are also strong contenders who could disrupt the narrative and make a push for the award. As the season progresses, keep an eye on these stars as they battle for one of the WNBA’s highest honors.