2025 WNBA Midseason Awards

The WNBA has officially reached the midway point of the season, and it’s time to recognize the standout performers who’ve set the tone across the league. From MVP candidates dominating both ends of the floor, to rookies playing at all star levels, to defensive anchors disrupting offenses nightly—this year’s campaign has been filled with breakout stars, resilient veterans, and teams exceeding expectations. As the playoff picture begins to take shape, here are our picks for the 2025 WNBA Midseason Awards, highlighting the elite talent and defining storylines of the first half of the season.

MVP: Napheesa Collier/ Minnesota Lynx -

At the midway point of the 2025 WNBA season, Napheesa Collier has firmly positioned herself as the league’s MVP frontrunner. The Minnesota Lynx star has been the engine behind the WNBA’s top team, showcasing her all-around brilliance on both ends of the floor. Currently averaging a WNBA leading 23.2 points, 7.6 rebounds (8th in the W), 3.3 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.6 blocks (both ranking 4th in the W) on 51/34/94 splits, Collier’s impact goes far beyond the box score—she sets the tone with her relentless motor, defensive versatility, and leadership. Whether she's locking down an opposing forward or hitting a clutch jumper late in games, Collier has consistently delivered in big moments, making her the most valuable and complete player in the league thus far.

Coach of the Year: Natalie Nakase/ Golden State Valkyries -

Natalie Nakase has emerged as the clear frontrunner for the 2025 WNBA Coach of the Year, leading the 10-12 Golden State Valkyries, to one of the league’s most surprising runs over the first half of the season. In her first full season at the helm, Nakase has instilled a culture of toughness, unselfishness, and defensive intensity that’s propelled the Valkyries into being a legitimate playoff contender. Despite the organization being in it's debut season in the WNBA, early season injuries and a roster still building chemistry, her steady leadership, strategic adjustments, and ability to maximize both veterans and young talent have stood out. Sitting at second in the WNBA in points allowed (78.0) and fifth in defensive rating (100.9), Golden States disciplined execution, improved ball movement, and top-tier defensive effort are a direct reflection of Nakase’s coaching imprint, making her a deserving choice at the season’s halfway mark.

Rookie of the Year: Paige Bueckers/ Dallas Wings -

The Rookie of the Year race has been a highly competitive one, with a trio of rookies all having all star rookie campaigns in the Mystics Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen, as well as the Dallas Wings Paige Bueckers. With that said, Bueckers has emerged as the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year. The former UConn star has continued to improve and figure out the professional level, showcasing her elite basketball IQ, playmaking, and shot-making abilities on a nightly basis. Yes, the Wings have a 6-17 record, however, Bueckers who has obviously been a bright spot for the Wings, leads ALL rookies in points per game (18.4), assists per game (5.5) and is second in steals per game (1.7). Whether it’s controlling the pace, hitting clutch shots, or creating for teammates, Bueckers has been a stabilizing force for her team and one of the most polished guards in the league—rookie or not. Her poise, consistency, and leadership have set her apart in a talented rookie class, giving her the edge for this year’s top first-year honor.

Defensive Player of the Year: Alanna Smith, Minnesota Lynx -

Smith, the Minnesota Lynx defensive ace, has strongly proven herself as the leader for Defensive Player of the Year. The versatile 6'4 forward has been a disruptive force all season long, anchoring her team’s defense with elite anticipation, timing, and versatility. Whether switching onto guards, contesting shots at the rim, or cleaning the glass, Smith’s impact is felt on every possession. She ranks among the league leaders in blocks (2.2/2nd in the W), defensive rebounds (3.9), and defensive rating (93.8/ 1st in the W), all while consistently guarding the opposing team’s best frontcourt threat. Her defensive IQ and relentless motor have transformed her into a game-changing presence and a key reason for her team’s success on that end of the floor.

Sixth Woman of the Year: Naz Hillman/ Atlanta Dream -

Naz Hillmon has been a consistent and invaluable spark off the bench for the Atlanta Dream, making her leader for the 2025 WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year. Her relentless motor, physicality in the paint, and efficient scoring have given Atlanta a steady interior presence when the starters sit. Hillmon’s ability to rebound, defend multiple positions, and finish through contact has made her a matchup problem for opposing second units. Averaging 7.3 points, 5 rebounds and 1.9 assists while shooting 49.2 percent from the field, just under 35 percent from deep and 75 percent from the charity stripe, she’s played a crucial role in keeping the Dream competitive in the playoff hunt—proving once again that impact isn’t always about starting, but about delivering when it matters most.

Most Improved Player: Veronica Burton/ Golden State Valkyries -

It's safe to say that the 2025 WNBA Most Improved Player award, is Burton's award to lose over the remainder of the season. Her dramatic improvement from last season, has been that eye opening, showcasing a dramatic leap in confidence, production, and leadership for the Valkyries. Known primarily for her defense early in her career, Burton has expanded her offensive game, becoming a reliable scorer and floor general. She’s averaging career highs across the board—including points (11), assists (5.4), rebounds (4.1) and steals (1.1)—while maintaining her trademark defensive tenacity (102 Defensive Rating). Burton’s ability to control tempo, knock down timely shots, and make winning plays has been a catalyst for Golden State's competitiveness this season, proving she’s no longer just a defensive specialist, but a well-rounded impact player.