he 2025 WNBA season is off to a challenging start, with a troubling surge in significant injuries that are impacting key players and reshaping team dynamics across the league.

The WNBA's injury problem - The Next

Seattle Storm Faces Multiple Setbacks

The Seattle Storm are grappling with a series of ACL injuries that have sidelined several players. Katie Lou Samuelson, a veteran forward, suffered a torn ACL during practice on May 1 and will miss the entire 2025 season. This injury adds to the team’s woes, as both Jordan Horston and Nika Mühl are also out for the season due to ACL tears sustained earlier. These setbacks have left the Storm with a depleted roster and raised concerns about the team’s depth and resilience.

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New York Liberty’s Injury Woes

The New York Liberty are dealing with a significant loss as forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton is expected to miss the entire 2025 season due to a meniscus injury. Laney-Hamilton, a key player in the Liberty’s 2024 championship run, underwent surgery in March and is not anticipated to return to basketball activities until at least August or September. This injury has forced the team to suspend her contract, clearing her $185,400 salary from the payroll and allowing for roster flexibility.

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Washington Mystics’ Roster Challenges

 

The Washington Mystics are also facing injury-related challenges. Rookie guard Georgia Amoore, the sixth overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, suffered an ACL injury during training camp and will miss the season. Additionally, forward Aaliyah Edwards is sidelined for at least two weeks due to a low back contusion. These injuries have left the Mystics with a thin roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.

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Indiana Fever’s Unexpected Absence

Guard Kristy Wallace of the Indiana Fever has announced that she will sit out the 2025 WNBA season. Wallace, who averaged 4.7 points and 1.8 rebounds in 26 games last season, cited personal reasons for her decision. Her absence adds to the Fever’s challenges as they look to build upon their 2024 playoff appearance.

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Call for Roster Expansion

The increasing number of injuries has sparked discussions about the need to expand roster sizes in the WNBA. Coaches and team officials have expressed concerns that the current roster limits are insufficient to manage the physical demands of the season and provide adequate depth. Expanding rosters could help teams better cope with injuries and maintain competitive balance throughout the season.

 

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, teams across the league will need to adapt to these challenges. The surge in injuries highlights the importance of depth, resilience, and strategic planning in building a successful team. With the playoffs on the horizon, how teams manage their rosters and navigate these setbacks will be crucial in determining their success.