Comparing Last Year's All-WNBA First and Second Team to This Year's

Comparing Last Year’s All-WNBA First and Second Team to This Year’s

Just a couple days before the Las Vegas Aces won the championship, the WNBA announced the All-WNBA First and Second Team honorees for the 2022 season. It’s an annual tradition that dates back to the WNBA’s inaugural season in 1997 – making this the 26th rendition.

This year’s All-WNBA First and Second Team feature three first-time honorees, which is refreshing considering we saw no first-time honorees last season. The two WNBA Finalists – Connecticut Sun and Las Vegas Aces – were the only two teams with more than one honoree.

It’s an enormous honor that’s only given to the league’s best players each season. With 144 players in the league at any given time, being one of the 10 that are named to the All-WNBA First and Second Team is easier said than done – you must be exceptional all season long. 

To see just how much the league has changed after one season, let’s take a look at how this year’s All-WNBA First and Second Team compare to last year’s All-WNBA First and Second Team – starting with last year’s. There are some similarities, but also some major differences.

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2021 All-WNBA First and Second Team

Comparing Last Year's All-WNBA First and Second Team to This Year's
via Instagram (@breannastewart30)

The 2021 All-WNBA First and Second Team were announced on October 15, 2021. It was the first time since 2011 that all 10 players had earned the honor at least once before. Every year between 2011 and 2021, there was at least one first-time honoree in the first or second team.

In what was a dominant year for both teams, the Phoenix Mercury and Seattle Storm each had two players named to the first team in 2021 – making up 4 of the 5 first team players. Of the 10 players, five of them were named to both the 2021 and 2022 All-WNBA First and Second Team. 

All but one player on the 2021 list is retired and that same player is one of the five that were also honored in 2022. You can make a case for any of these players to make it to the Hall of Fame. Without further ado, let’s take a look back at the 2021 All-WNBA First and Second Team. 

10. Courtney Vandersloot (Second Team)

2021 Team: Chicago Sky

2021 Stats: 10.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 8.6 assists, 1.7 steals, 0.4 blocks (32 games)

Courtney Vandersloot had a career-year in 2021. Not only did she lead the league in assists for the fifth straight season (sixth total), but she averaged a career-high 1.7 steals per game – which also led the league. She’s easily one of the WNBA’s all-time greatest playmakers. 

Vandersloot was drafted by the Chicago Sky with the No. 3 overall pick in 2011. She’s averaging 10.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game throughout her 12-year career. She’s a four-time All-Star and won the 2021 WNBA championship with Chicago. 

9. Tina Charles (Second Team)

2021 Team: Washington Mystics

2021 Stats: 23.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.9 blocks (27 games)

Despite missing the shortened 2020 season and entering 2021 with a new squad, Tina Charles balled out in a major way – setting a career-high in points per game (23.4). She led the league in scoring and was 0.4 rebounds per game away from averaging a double-double on the year.

Charles was drafted by the Connecticut Sun with the No. 1 overall pick in 2010. She’s averaging 18.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.8 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game throughout her 12-year career. She’s a former Rookie of the Year (2011), MVP (2012), and eight-time All-Star. 

8. Arike Ogunbowale (Second Team)

2021 Team: Dallas Wings

2021 Stats: 18.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.1 steals (32 games)

Arike Ogunbowale is off to an incredible start to her career. After a productive rookie year, she led the league in scoring in 2020 and followed that up with another 18.7 points per game in 2021 – which ranked fifth in the league. She had 17 games of at least 20 points in 2021. 

Ogunbowale was drafted by the Dallas Wings with the No. 5 overall pick in 2019. She’s averaging 19.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per game throughout her four-year career. She’s a two-time All-Star and was even named All-Star Game MVP in 2021. 

7. Sylvia Fowles (Second Team)

2021 Team: Minnesota Lynx

2021 Stats: 16.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.8 steals, 1.8 blocks (31 games)

Sylvia Fowles was impressive on both ends of the court in 2021, something we’ve grown accustomed to. She ranked second in the WNBA in rebounds, steals, and blocks per game. She was also named Defensive Player of the Year for the fourth time in her illustrious 15-year career.

Fowles was drafted by the Chicago Sky with the No. 2 overall pick in 2008. She’s averaging 15.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game throughout her career. She’s a eight-time All-Star and former MVP, two-time champ, and two-time Finals MVP. 

6. A’ja Wilson (Second Team)

2021 Team: Las Vegas Aces

2021 Stats: 18.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.3 blocks (32 games)

A’ja Wilson had a down year in 2021 compared to her 2020 campaign, but she still managed to be named All-WNBA Second Team. She also set career-highs in rebounds (9.3) and assists (3.1), leading her team to the second-best record in the WNBA (24-8) in just her fourth season.

Wilson was drafted by the Las Vegas Aces with the No. 1 overall pick in 2018. She’s averaging 19.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game in her young career. She’s a WNBA champion, two-time MVP, four-time All-Star, and Defensive Player of the Year.

5. Jewell Loyd (First Team)

2021 Team: Seattle Storm

2021 Stats: 17.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.2 blocks (31 games)

Jewell Loyd was one of the most explosive players throughout the 2021 season, scoring a league-high 37 points in a game against Phoenix – the same game she tied a WNBA record with 22 points in a single quarter. Her 17.9 points per game ranked seventh in the league. 

Loyd was drafted by the Seattle Storm with the No. 1 overall pick in 2015. She’s averaging 15.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game throughout her eight-year career. She’s a four-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year, and two-time champion with Seattle.

4. Breanna Stewart (First Team)

2021 Team: Seattle Storm

2021 Stats: 20.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.7 blocks (28 games)

Breanna Stewart was close to having an MVP season in 2021, placing third in voting. She ranked third in scoring, and fifth in rebounds and blocks. It was also a historic season for Stewart, becoming the fastest WNBA player to record 2,500 points and 1,000 rebounds. 

Stewart was drafted by the Seattle Storm with the No. 1 overall pick in 2016. She’s averaging 20.3 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game throughout her career. She’s a four-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year, two-time champ, and two-time Finals MVP. 

3. Brittney Griner (First Team)

2021 Team: Phoenix Mercury

2021 Stats: 20.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 0.4 steals, 1.9 blocks (30 games)

Brittney Griner once again proved why she’s one of the greatest players of all-time with a near-MVP season – she came second in voting. She led the league in blocks for the eighth time in her nine-year career and ranked second in the WNBA in scoring with 20.5 points per game.

Griner was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury with the No. 1 overall pick in 2013. She’s averaging 17.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.5 steals, and 2.8 blocks per game throughout her career. She’s a eight-time All-Star, one-time WNBA champion, and two-time scoring champion. 

2. Skylar Diggins-Smith (First Team)

2021 Team: Phoenix Mercury

2021 Stats: 17.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.8 blocks (32 games)

Skylar Diggins-Smith had a bit of a historical season herself, becoming the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 3,000 points, 1,000 assists, and 200 steals. She ranked ninth in the WNBA in scoring and sixth in assists, while also being named to her fifth All-Star game.

Diggins-Smith was drafted by the Tulsa Shock with the No. 3 overall pick in 2013. She’s averaging 16.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.6 blocks throughout her nine-year career. She’s a six-time All-Star and former Most Improved Player of the Year. 

1. Jonquel Jones (First Team)

2021 Team: Connecticut Sun

2021 Stats: 19.4 points, 11.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.3 blocks (27 games)

Jonquel Jones had an impressive season that saw her Connecticut Sun finish the year on a 14-game winning streak – they had a WNBA-best 26-6 record. She not only led the league in rebounding, but ranked fourth in scoring and 10th in blocks – she was dominant on both ends.

Jones was drafted by the Connecticut Sun with the No. 6 overall pick in 2016. She’s averaging 13.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game in her career. She’s a four-time All-Star, Sixth Woman of the Year, Most Improved Player of the Year, and MVP. 

2022 All-WNBA First and Second Team

Comparing Last Year's All-WNBA First and Second Team to This Year's
via Instagram (@sabrina_i)

The 2022 All-WNBA First and Second Team were announced on September 15, 2022 – one month earlier than last season. Much like the previous year, the list features nine American players and one player from the Bahamas – all of whom are future Hall of Fame players. 

Compared to last season, we saw one player get demoted from first team to second team and another player promoted from second to first team – two players remained on the first team, while one player remained on the first team. Four of the players were in the WNBA Finals. 

With a talented mix of youth and veterans, we couldn’t be happier with the 2022 All-WNBA First and Second Team. While some players were snubbed, it’s something that’s bound to happen with so many women playing at a high level. Either way, let’s meet the 2022 All-WNBA rosters.

10. Sylvia Fowles (Second Team)

2022 Team: Minnesota Lynx

2022 Stats: 14.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.2 blocks (30 games)

In 2022, Sylvia Fowles was named to the second team for the second consecutive season and fifth time overall – she was also a three-time first team honoree. It wasn’t as good of a season as 2021, but it was still an impressive showing considering she’s 36 and in her final season. 

Fowles led the league in rebounding in 2022 and ranked sixth in blocks. She was also named to the All-Defensive Team for the 11th time in her career, which is second-most all-time, and took home the 2022 WNBA Kim Perrot Sportsmanship Award for her efforts on and off the court.

9. Jonquel Jones (Second Team)

2022 Team: Connecticut Sun

2022 Stats: 14.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.2 blocks (33 games)

Jonquel Jones once again made a difference on both ends of the court, being named to the All-WNBA Second Team and All-Defensive Team in 2022. She ranked fourth in rebounds and seventh in blocks per game, leading her team to an impressive 25-11 record and Finals berth.

This was Jones’ third time being named to the second team. While it was a demotion compared to last year’s first team honor and MVP award, she still played incredible and was a few games away from becoming a WNBA champion. She has yet to achieve it, but she will eventually. 

8. Nneka Ogwumike (Second Team)

2022 Team: Los Angeles Sparks 

2022 Stats: 18.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.4 blocks (34 games)

Nneka Ogwumike had an impressive and well-rounded 2022 campaign, ranking seventh in points, 15th in rebounds, third in steals, and seventh in field goal percentage. Her 18.1 points per game were her most since the 2017 season, when she averaged 18.8 points per game. 

Ogwumike was drafted by the Los Angeles Sparks with the No. 1 overall pick in 2012. She’s averaging 16.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game in her 11-year career. She’s a seven-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year, MVP, and WNBA champion. 

7. Sabrina Ionescu (Second Team)

2022 Team: New York Liberty

2022 Stats: 17.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.3 blocks (36 games)

Sabrina Ionescu had a memorable year, earning her first All-Star nod and first All-WNBA nod. She became the youngest player to score a triple double, the only player to score a 30-point triple double, and only player to record 500 points, 200 rebounds, and 200 assists in a season.

Ionescu was drafted by the New York Liberty with the No. 1 overall pick in 2020. She’s averaging 15.0 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game in her three-year career. She’s the NCAA all-time leader in triple doubles, so expect plenty more. 

6. Alyssa Thomas (Second Team)

2022 Team: Connecticut Sun

2022 Stats: 13.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.7 steals, 0.2 blocks (36 games)

Alyssa Thomas was impressive on both offense and defense in 2022. In addition to her second team nod, she was named an All-Star and All-Defensive player. She ranked second in steals, fifth in assists, and fifth in rebounds – as well as averaging a career-high 6.1 assists per game.

Thomas was drafted by the Connecticut Sun with the No. 4 overall pick in 2014. She’s averaging 11.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game throughout her nine-year career. She’s a three-time All-Star and even led the league in steals in 2020. 

5. Candace Parker (First Team)

2022 Team: Chicago Sky

2022 Stats: 13.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.0 blocks (32 games)

In her second season with the Chicago Sky, Candace Parker ranked third in the WNBA in rebounds and finished the year with two triple doubles. She became the oldest player to record a triple double at 36 years old and is tied for the most triple doubles all-time with three. 

Parker was drafted by the Los Angeles Sparks with the No. 1 overall pick in 2008. She’s averaging 16.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game in her career. She’s a seven-time All-Star, two-time MVP, two-time champ, and WNBA Finals MVP.  

4. Skylar Diggins-Smith (First Team)

2022 Team: Phoenix Mercury

2022 Stats: 19.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.6 steals, 1.0 blocks (30 games)

Skylar Diggins-Smith earned her third straight All-WNBA nod in 2022, including her second consecutive first team nod. She finished third in the WNBA in scoring, seventh in assists, eighth in steals, and led the league in minutes played. She had 10 games with at least 25 points. 

Her 19.7 points per game was her highest mark since the 2014 season – her second year in the league – and is just 0.4 points per game away from her career-high of 20.1. She continues to excel with Phoenix and will likely be on this list again next season – I wouldn’t be surprised. 

3. Kelsey Plum (First Team)

2022 Team: Las Vegas Aces

2022 Stats: 20.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.1 blocks (36 games)

After having a breakout season last year, Kelsey Plum broke out yet again and improved on her progress from a year ago. She posted career-highs in points, assists, and steals, finishing second in the WNBA in scoring and ninth in assists. She also led the league in three pointers. 

Plum was drafted by the San Antonio Stars (now Aces) with the No. 1 overall pick in 2017. She’s finally coming into her own, averaging 12.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.1 blocks per game. This is her first All-WNBA nod – she came in third in MVP voting.

2. Breanna Stewart (First Team)

2022 Team: Seattle Storm

2022 Stats: 21.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.9 blocks (34 games)

Breanna Stewart continues to prove she’s one of the greatest players of her generation. She tied her career-high of 21.8 points in 2022 and was second in MVP voting. She led the league in scoring, ranked seventh in rebounding, and fifth in steals. She was all over the place, yet again. 

Stewart also led the league in 25-point games, achieving the feat 11 times this season – her four 30-point games was second to Sabrina Ionescu. This is her third consecutive All-WNBA first team nod and fourth first team nod overall – she was also an All-WNBA second team in 2016.

1. A’ja Wilson (First Team)

2022 Team: Las Vegas Aces

2022 Stats: 19.5 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.4 steals, 1.9 blocks (36 games)

A’ja Wilson was on a mission this season and it ended with her winning MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, WNBA Championship, WNBA FInals MVP, All-Star Game captain, and blocks leader. Her 17 double-doubles led the league and she also ranked second in rebounding.

Wilson had one of the greatest season’s any WNBA player has ever had. She had her Aces ready to win their first championship and never left any doubt. She’s a leader both on the court and in the locker room, so expect to see the Aces’ success continue for many years to come.

Who Will Make Next Year’s All-WNBA First and Second Team?

With the exception of Sylvia Fowles, who is now retired, you can make a case for any of the females listed above to make the 2023 All-WNBA First and Second Team. They’ve already proven that they can play at a high level consistently and that shouldn’t change next season. 

Of course, there are plenty of other women who deserve to be considered – Elena Delle Donne, DeWanna Bonner, Chelsea Gray, Rhyne Howard, etc. – and there are even some rookies that might surprise us next year – Aliyah Boston, Haley Jones, Diamond Miller, etc.

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The truth is we have no idea what next year will bring, but that’s what makes the WNBA such a joy and excitement to follow. You never know who will show out, but you can always count on every player giving 110% game-in and game-out – and things won’t be any different next year.

Las Vegas Aces Win First Title in Franchise History; Here’s a Look Back at the Other 25 WNBA Champions Since 1997

When the Las Vegas Aces moved from San Antonio to Sin City in 2018, not many people expected them to be named WNBA champions five seasons later – but that’s exactly what happened. The Aces defeated the Connecticut Sun 3-1 to win their first title in franchise history. 

It was a special moment for a team that has come so close in years past – including trips to the Conference Finals in 2019, 2020, and 2021, and a trip to the WNBA Finals in 2020. Under new head coach Becky Hammon, this was the season the Aces finally put all the pieces together. 

It’s not just the first title in franchise history, but it’s the first title for the city of Vegas, who just recently started to join the pro sports market. And now that the Aces are WNBA champions, the question is whether or not the Oakland Raiders and Vegas Golden Knights will follow suit. 

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A Look Back at the Past 25 WNBA Champions

Las Vegas Aces Win First Title in Franchise History; Here's a Look Back at the Other 25 WNBA Champions Since 1997
via Instagram (@lvaces)

As I take a look back at the past 25 WNBA champions since the league’s inaugural season in 1997, there are a number of franchises that stand out – including the Houston Comets, Los Angeles Sparks, Detroit Shock, Phoenix Mercury, Seattle Storm, and the Minnesota Lynx. 

The Comets won the first four championships and are the only franchise to win more than two in a row. The Sparks are the only other team to win two in a row, doing so in 2001 and 2002. The Shock and Mercury each won two titles between 2006 and 2010 – the Shock also won in 2003.

As for the Lynx, they won a title every other year between 2011 and 2017 – totaling four titles over a seven-year stretch. And finally, the Storm have managed to stay relevant ever since they were first named WNBA champions in 2004 – they also won in 2010, 2018, and 2020. 

With that being said, let’s take a look back at who the past 25 WNBA champions were – starting with last season’s champion, but dating back to the 1997 inaugural season.

25. Chicago Sky – 2021

Regular Season Record: 16-16 (.500)

2021 WNBA Finals: Sky defeated Mercury, 3-1

Head Coach: James Wade

Key Players: Kahleah Copper, Candace Parker, Courtney Vandersloot, Allie Quigley, Diamond DeShields

The Chicago Sky were the Cinderella story everyone needed in 2021. Despite finishing as the No. 6 seed, they defeated the Dallas Wings and Minnesota Lynx in the first two rounds and the Connecticut Sun 3-1 to reach the WNBA Finals. Like the Aces, it was their first title in franchise history. Kahleah Copper was named the 2021 WNBA Finals MVP. 

24. Seattle Storm – 2020

Regular Season Record: 18-4 (.818)

2021 WNBA Finals: Storm defeat Aces, 3-0

Head Coach: Gary Kloppenburg

Key Players: Breanna Stewart, Jordin Canada, Jewell Loyd, Alysha Clark, Sue Bird, Natasha Howard

The Seattle Storm received a first and second round bye with the second-best record in the WNBA in 2020. They not only swept the Minnesota Lynx in the semifinals, but they swept the Las Vegas Aces in the WNBA Finals. It was the franchise’s fourth title and second with Breanna Stewart – who won Finals MVP for the second time in her career.

23. Washington Mystics – 2019

Regular Season Record: 26-8 (.765)

2021 WNBA Finals: Mystics defeat Sun, 3-2

Head Coach: Mike Thibault

Key Players: Elena Delle Donne, Kristi Toliver, Aerial Powers, Emma Meesseman, Ariel Atkins, Natasha Cloud

The Washington Mystics finished the 2019 regular season with the best record in the Eastern Conference. They defeated the Las Vegas Aces 3-1 in the semifinals before their five-game Finals win over the Connecticut Sun. Elena Delle Donne took home MVP of the regular season, while her teammate Emma Meesseman won the 2019 Finals MVP award. 

22. Seattle Storm – 2018

Regular Season Record: 26-8 (.765)

2021 WNBA Finals: Storm defeat Mystics, 3-0

Head Coach: Dan Hughes

Key Players: Breanna Stewart, Jewell Loyd, Sue Bird, Natasha Howard, Alysha Clark, Jordin Canada

The Seattle Storm had the best record in the Western Conference in 2018 and were matched up with the Phoenix Mercury in the semifinals – winning the series in five games. They then met the Washington Mystics in the WNBA Finals, sweeping them in three games. Breanna Stewart won her first MVP and Finals MVP awards, while Natasha Howard won Most Improved Player of the Year.

21. Minnesota Lynx – 2017

Regular Season Record: 27-7 (.794)

2021 WNBA Finals: Lynx defeat Sparks, 3-2

Head Coach: Cheryl Reeve

Key Players: Sylvia Fowles, Maya Moore, Seimone Augustus, Rebekkah Brunson, Lindsay Whalen

The Minnesota Lynx started the season 19-2 and finished with the best record in the Western Conference. They swept the Washington Mystics in the semifinals and beat the Los Angeles Sparks 3-2 in the WNBA Finals to earn their fourth title in franchise history. Sylvia Fowles not only won the MVP award during the regular season, but also the Finals MVP. 

20. Los Angeles Sparks – 2016

Regular Season Record: 26-8 (.765)

2021 WNBA Finals: Sparks defeated Lynx, 3-2

Head Coach: Brian Agler

Key Players: Candace Parker, Nneka Ogwumike, Kristi Toliver, Jantel Lavender, Essence Carlson

The Los Angeles Sparks started the season 20-1, including an 11-game and nine-game winning streak. They had the second-best record in the West, behind the Lynx, and defeated the Chicago Sky 3-1 in the semifinals to earn a Finals berth. They defeated the Lynx 3-2 in the WNBA Finals, with Candace Parker being named Finals MVP. 

19. Minnesota Lynx – 2015

Regular Season Record: 22-12 (.647)

2021 WNBA Finals: Lynx defeated Fever, 3-2

Head Coach: Cheryl Reeve

Key Players: Maya Moore, Seimone Augustus, Sylvia Fowles, Lindsay Whalen, Anna Cruz

The Minnesota Lynx finished the season with the best record in the West and opened the playoffs with a 2-1 series win over the Los Angeles Sparks. They then beat the Phoenix Mercury 2-0 in the Conference Finals before defeating the Indiana Fever 3-2 in an exciting WNBA Finals. They were led by Maya Moore and Sylvia Fowles – who won the Finals MVP award.

18. Phoenix Mercury – 2014

Regular Season Record: 29-5 (.853)

2021 WNBA Finals: Mercury defeat Sparks, 3-0

Head Coach: Sandy Brondello

Key Players: Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, Candice Dupree, Penny Taylor, DeWanna Bonner

The Phoenix Mercury were no match for the WNBA in 2014, finishing the regular season 29-5 – the most wins by a team in a single season in WNBA history. The team is also widely regarded as the greatest team in WNBA history, led by Diana Taurasi (Finals MVP), Brittney Griner, and Candice Dupree. They went 7-1 in the playoffs, defeating the Sparks, Lynx, and Sky. 

17. Minnesota Lynx – 2013

Regular Season Record: 26-8 (.765)

2021 WNBA Finals: Lynx defeat Dream, 3-0

Head Coach: Cheryl Reeve

Key Players: Maya Moore, Lindsay Whalen, Seimone Augustus, Monica Wright, Rebekkah Brunson

The Minnesota Lynx started the season 14-3 and ended the season 12-5 to enter the playoffs with the best record in the West. They went undefeated (7-0) in the playoffs, sweeping the Storm, Mercury, and Dream to win their second title in franchise history – both in a three-year stretch. Maya Moore was named WNBA Finals MVP.

16. Indiana Fever – 2012

Regular Season Record: 22-12 (.647)

2021 WNBA Finals: Fever defeated Lynx, 3-1

Head Coach: Lin Dunn

Key Players: Tamika Catchings, Katie Douglas, Briann January, Shavonte Zellous, Jessica Davenport

The Indiana Fever won 12 of their final 17 games to enter the playoffs with the second-best record in the Eastern Conference – they were 13-4 at home on the year. They went on to beat the Dream 2-1 in the Conference Semifinals, the Sun 2-1 in the Conference Finals, and the Lynx 3-1 in the WNBA Finals. Tamika Catchings was named Finals MVP. 

15. Minnesota Lynx – 2011

Regular Season Record: 27-7 (.794)

2021 WNBA Finals: Lynx defeated Dream, 3-0

Head Coach: Cheryl Reeve

Key Players: Seimone Augustus, Lindsay Whalen, Maya Moore, Rebekkah Brunson, Taj Mcwilliams-Franklin

The Minnesota Lynx won 20 of their final 23 games to end the season – a stretch that started with a nine-game winning streak. They entered the playoffs with a six-game lead in the West and beat the Stars, Mercury, and Dream en route to their first title in franchise history. This was the start of what might be the greatest dynasty in WNBA history. 

14. Seattle Storm – 2010

Regular Season Record: 28-6 (.824)

2021 WNBA Finals: Storm defeated Dream, 3-0

Head Coach: Brian Agler

Key Players: Lauren Jackson, Swin Cash, Sue Bird, Camille Little, Tamisha Wright

This was a storybook year for the Seattle Storm, winning their second title in franchise history after an impressive regular season that saw them 13 games ahead of the next-best team in the West. They went 7-0 in the playoffs with Brian Agler winning Coach of the Year and Lauren Jackson winning regular season MVP and Finals MVP. They were unstoppable.

13. Phoenix Mercury – 2009

Regular Season Record: 23-11 (.676)

2021 WNBA Finals: Mercury defeated Fever, 3-2

Head Coach: Corey Gaines

Key Players: Diana Taurasi, Cappie Pondexter, DeWanna Bonner, Penny Taylor, Le’coe Willingham

The Phoenix Mercury had their struggles during the regular season, but were lifted by an 8-2 record in July and three-game win streak in September – entering the playoffs with the best record in the West. They defeated the Stars, Sparks, and Fever in the playoffs, going 7-4 en route to their second title in franchise history. Diana Taurasi won MVP and Finals MVP.

12. Detroit Shock – 2008

Regular Season Record: 22-12 (.647)

2021 WNBA Finals: Shock defeated Stars, 3-0

Head Coach: Bill Laimbeer

Key Players: Deanna Nolan, Katie Smith, Plenette Pierson, Taj McWilliams-Franklin, Cheryl Ford

The Detroit Shock started the season 7-1 and finished it on a five-game win streak – earning the best record in the Eastern Conference, one game over the Sun. They defeated the Fever 2-1, the Liberty 2-1, and the Stars 3-0 en route to their third title in franchise history. Katie Smith was awarded the WNBA Finals MVP, just a few months after winning an Olympic gold medal.

11. Phoenix Mercury – 2007

Regular Season Record: 23-11 (.676)

2021 WNBA Finals: Mercury defeated Shock, 3-2

Head Coach: Paul Westhead

Key Players: Diana Taurasi, Penny Taylor, Cappie Pondexter, Tangela Smith, Kelly Miller

The Phoenix Mercury started the season just 12-10, but won 11 of their next 12 games between July 22 and August 19. They then won four-straight playoff games to earn a Finals berth, but found themselves down 1-2 in the series. After a tight 77-76 victory in Game 4, the Mercury blew out the Shock 108-92 to win their first title in franchise history. 

10. Detroit Shock – 2006

Regular Season Record: 23-11 (.676)

2021 WNBA Finals: Shock defeated Monarchs, 3-2

Head Coach: Bill Laimbeer

Key Players: Deanna Nolan, Cheryl Ford, Katie Smith, Swin Cash, Ruth Riley

The Detroit Shock started the season 4-4, but won 14 of their next 17 games and eight of their final 11 games to finish the regular season three games behind the Sun in the East. They defeated the Fever and the Sun en route to a Finals berth, where they defeated the Monarchs 3-2 for their second title in franchise history. Deanna Nolan was named WNBA Finals MVP. 

9. Sacramento Monarchs – 2005

Regular Season Record: 25-9 (.735)

2021 WNBA Finals: Monarchs defeated Sun, 3-1

Head Coach: John Whisenant

Key Players: Yolanda Griffith, Nicole Powell, DeMya Walker, Rebekkah Brunson, Ticha Penicheiro

The Sacramento Monarchs started the season 6-1 and won 12 of their final 14 games to finish the year 25-9 – the best record in the Western Conference. After sweeping the Sparks and Comets, they defeated the Sun 3-1 in the Finals to win their first and only title in franchise history. Yolanda Griffith won Finals MVP and John Whisenant won Coach of the Year. 

8. Seattle Storm – 2004

Regular Season Record: 20-14 (.588)

2021 WNBA Finals: Storm defeated Sun, 2-1

Head Coach: Anne Donovan

Key Players: Lauren Jackson, Sue Bird, Betty Lennox, Sheri Sam, Kamila Vodichkova

The Seattle Storm started the season 8-2 and were 17-8 at one point, but lost six of their final nine games – still good enough for second in the West. They defeated the Lynx 2-0 and Monarchs 2-1 before beating the Sun 2-1 in the Finals. Betty Lennox won Finals MVP, helping Lauren Jackson lead the Storm to their first of four titles. 

7. Detroit Shock – 2003

Regular Season Record: 25-9 (.735)

2021 WNBA Finals: Shock defeated Sparks, 2-1

Head Coach: Bill Laimbeer

Key Players: Swin Cash, Deanna Nolan, Cheryl Ford, Ruth Riley, Elaine Powell

The Detroit Shock lost their season opener, but won their next eight games and won 15 of their final 19 games to secure the best record in the East. They went 6-2 in the playoffs, defeating the Rockers, Sun, and Sparks en route to their first of three titles. Ruth Riley was named Finals MVP, Cheryl Ford won Rookie of the Year, and Bill Laimbeer won Coach of the Year. 

6. Los Angeles Sparks – 2002

Regular Season Record: 25-7 (.781)

2021 WNBA Finals: Sparks defeated Liberty, 2-0

Head Coach: Michael Cooper

Key Players: Lisa Leslie, DeLisha Milton-Jones, Mwadi Mabika, Tamecka Dixon, Latasha Byears

The Los Angeles Sparks started the season 12-1 and finished the season on a three-game win streak before going 6-0 in the playoffs. They defeated the Storm, Starzz, and Liberty en route to their second consecutive title – the Sparks are one of only two teams to go back-to-back. Lisa Leslie was named WNBA Finals MVP for the second straight year, as well. 

5. Los Angeles Sparks – 2001

Regular Season Record: 28-4 (.875)

2021 WNBA Finals: Sparks defeated Sting, 2-0

Head Coach: Michael Cooper

Key Players: Lisa Leslie, Tamecka Dixon, DeLisha Milton-Jones, Mwadi Mabika, Latasha Byears

If the 2014 Phoenix Mercury aren’t the greatest team in WNBA history, the 2001 Los Angeles Sparks might be. They suffered a three-game losing streak after starting the season 9-0, but won their next 18 games and 19 of their next 20 to finish with the best record in the league. They defeated the Comets, Monarchs, and Sting en route to their first title in franchise history.

4. Houston Comets – 2000

Regular Season Record: 27-5 (.844)

2021 WNBA Finals: Comets defeated Liberty, 2-0

Head Coach: Van Chancellor

Key Players: Sheryl Swoopes, Cynthia Cooper, Tina Thompson, Janeth Arcain, Tiffani Johnson

The Houston Comets started the season 9-1 and won 18 of their last 21 games, but still finished with the second-best record in the Western Conference. The seeding didn’t matter, as they went 6-0 in the playoffs and defeated the Liberty in the Finals to win their fourth consecutive title – a record that might not be touched for a while, if ever. Cynthia Cooper won Finals MVP, while Sheryl Swoopes won MVP and Defensive Player of the Year. 

3. Houston Comets – 1999

Regular Season Record: 26-6 (.813)

2021 WNBA Finals: Comets defeated Liberty, 2-1

Head Coach: Van Chancellor

Key Players: Cynthia Cooper, Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson, Janeth Arcain, Polina Tzekova

The Houston Comets went on two seven-game win streaks during the 1999 season – to start the year and to end July. They won five of their final six games before beating the Sparks 2-1 and Liberty 2-1 en route to their third consecutive title. Cynthia Cooper was named WNBA Finals MVP and Van Chancellor won Coach of the Year. 

2. Houston Comets – 1998

Regular Season Record: 27-3 (.900)

2021 WNBA Finals: Comets defeated Mercury, 2-1

Head Coach: Van Chancellor

Key Players: Cynthia Cooper, Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson, Kim Perrot, Janeth Arcain

The Houston Comets started the season 5-1 before going on a 15-game win streak – including 12-0 in the month of July – and winning seven of their last eight games. They defeated the Sting 2-0 and Mercury 2-1 en route to their second straight title. Cynthia Cooper not only won the regular season MVP award, but she was named WNBA Finals MVP as well.

1. Houston Comets – 1997

Regular Season Record: 18-10 (.643)

2021 WNBA Finals: Comets defeated Liberty, 1-0

Head Coach: Van Chancellor

Key Players: Cynthia Cooper, Tina Thompson, Janeth Arcain, Sheryl Swoopes, Wanda Guyton

The Houston Comets started the WNBA’s inaugural season 4-1 and went on a five-game win streak in early August, ending the season with the best record in the Eastern Conference. They defeated the Sting 70-54 in the semifinal and the Liberty 65-51 in the WNBA Finals to become the first ever WNBA Champions. Cynthia Cooper won her first of four Finals MVP awards and first of two regular season MVP awards. 

Who Will Be Named WNBA Champions in 2023?

Las Vegas Aces Win First Title in Franchise History; Here's a Look Back at the Other 25 WNBA Champions Since 1997
via Instagram (@lvaces)

With the way the WNBA is built today, any team can be named WNBA champions next season – especially once the incoming class of rookies join in on the fun. Of course, the Las Vegas Aces will be the clear favorite to become the third franchise to win at least two titles in a row. 

The Aces have nine of their 12 players returning next year, including their core of A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, and Dearica Hamby. This team continues to grow with each other and they’ll likely be a headache for any franchise to deal with indefinitely. 

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Outside of the Aces, some of the teams I believe could make a run as WNBA champions in 2023 are the Seattle Storm, Connecticut Sun, Washington Mystics, and New York Liberty. These teams have some of the best players in the league and will garner a lot of attention next season.

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