WNBA Season 30 Tips Off: Complete Guide to Opening Day, Key Storylines, and Viewing Options
The 30th WNBA season finally begins tonight, Friday, May 8, after months of tense negotiations between players and owners nearly derailed the campaign. Thankfully, a 17-month bargaining process resulted in a new collective bargaining agreement, ensuring the league's return. With three thrilling matchups on tap, fans are eager to see how storylines like the Las Vegas Aces' quest for another title, Caitlin Clark's health, and Angel Reese's new team unfold. Here's everything you need to know about the opening night and beyond, including free viewing options.
When Does the WNBA Season Start and What Are the Key Games?
The 2025 WNBA season commences tonight, Friday, May 8, with three exciting games. At 7:30 p.m. ET, the New York Liberty host the Connecticut Sun, while simultaneously the Toronto Tempo face the Washington Mystics. Later at 10:00 p.m. ET, the Golden State Valkyries take on the Seattle Storm. These opening matchups set the stage for a season full of drama and high-stakes competition. The Liberty-Sun game promises a defensive battle, while the Tempo-Mystics game showcases new talent. The late-night West Coast clash between Golden State and Seattle offers fans a taste of the league's expanding geographic footprint.
Who Are the Favorites to Win the Championship?
The Las Vegas Aces enter as clear favorites after winning three of the last four titles, including back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023. Most of their core returns, led by MVP A'ja Wilson, with additions like guard Chennedy Carter, forward Stephanie Talbot, and forward/center Brianna Turner. Their biggest challenger is the New York Liberty, who appointed new head coach Chris DeMarco and added Satou Sabally. The 2024 champs dealt with injuries last season but now have a healthy Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones. However, Sabrina Ionescu is sidelined for at least two weeks with an ankle sprain, which could slow their early momentum. The Liberty are determined to dethrone the Aces, making this rivalry the season's centerpiece.
Will Caitlin Clark Avoid More Injuries This Season?
Caitlin Clark's rookie season was cut short by injuries—she played only 13 games due to a left ankle bone bruise and a right groin strain. The Indiana Fever are counting on her to stay on the court this year. However, during a preseason game against the Dallas Wings, Clark collided with Alanna Smith while attempting a three-pointer. The foul was upgraded to a Flagrant 1, but Clark made her free throws and confirmed afterward she wasn't injured. While this incident didn't result in missed time, it highlights the physical toll defenders place on her. The Fever and Clark's fans hope she can avoid the injury bug and build on her electrifying playmaking ability.
How Will Angel Reese Fit With the Atlanta Dream?
In a surprising trade, the Chicago Sky sent Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for two first-round draft picks. Reese joins a talented core featuring Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, and Brionna Jones, under new head coach Karl Smesko. Her tenacious rebounding and interior scoring should complement the Dream's perimeter threats, giving Atlanta a more balanced attack. Reese's energy and ability to draw fouls could elevate the team's pace. The Dream struggled with consistency last season, but Reese's arrival—combined with Smesko's system—makes them a dark horse contender. Fans will watch closely to see how quickly she integrates and whether this trade becomes a turning point for the franchise.
How Can Fans Watch the Opening Games and the Rest of the Season?
Watching WNBA games requires navigating a fragmented broadcast landscape. For Friday's openers, the 7:30 p.m. ET games—Liberty vs. Sun and Tempo vs. Mystics—are split: the Liberty game airs on ION, while the Tempo game is available on League Pass or local broadcasters. The 10 p.m. ET Valkyries-Storm game also airs on ION. Throughout the season, games appear on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, CBS Sports Network, NBA TV, and local channels. A free option is to use an over-the-air antenna for ION and ABC, or check if your local broadcaster streams games. League Pass offers a subscription for all out-of-market games. No single service covers everything, so fans may need multiple screens or a combination of subscriptions.
Free Viewing Options
For fans on a budget, ION and ABC are available over the air with a digital antenna in most markets. Some local broadcasters also offer free streaming on their websites or apps. Additionally, WNBA League Pass occasionally offers free previews early in the season. Check your local listings to see which games are available without cable.