The WNBA is full of incredible players of all ages, but today we’re going to focus on the best players who are 25 or under. These young stars have already made significant contributions to their teams and have proven their ability in a very short amount of time. Let’s rank the 13 best WNBA players who are 25 or under.
13. Aaliyah Edwards
Aaliyah Edwards had an up-and-down rookie season with the Washington Mystics, but it’s clear she has a very bright future in the league. From her athleticism to her ability to score, she will be a dominant big for years to come.
12. Kamilla Cardoso
Kamila Cardoso took a little while to get comfortable with the speed of play in the WNBA, but she found her way by the end of the season. Her incredible size makes her very difficult to defend and her ability to knock down shots got much better as the season progressed.
11. Lexie Hull
Lexie Hull had a breakout season in 2024. Despite not starting for much of the season, following the Olympic break she earned her spot as a starter for the Indiana Fever. A great passer and three-point shooter, Hull really found her groove this year.
10. Dorka Juhász
A role player for the Minnesota Lynx, Dorka Juhász can dominate the boards and stretch the floor with her shooting range. Her defensive presence is also really strong.
9. Shakira Austin
Shakira Austin has had to deal with a number of injuries throughout her career, but it’s clear she has so much talent. Her defensive instincts and ability to score in the paint have made her a vital part of the Washington Mystics.
8. NaLyssa Smith
NaLyssa Smith has been a big part of the Indiana Fever’s turnaround this year. While she still has room to improve, especially when it comes to her shooting, her rebounding ability is second to none.
7. Cameron Brink
Los Angeles Sparks star Cameron Brink sadly missed a large majority of her rookie WNBA season due to a knee injury, but there’s no question she’s going to be one of the best players in the league. Her ability to score from anywhere — plus her incredible shot-blocking skills — will make her nearly unstoppable once she’s healthy.
6. Rickea Jackson
Rickea Jackson shocked a lot of people during her rookie season with how well she played for the Los Angeles Sparks. Not only is she a great defender thanks to her size, but she can basically score from anywhere on the court.
5. Leonie Fiebich
Leonie Fiebich was a vital member of the championship-winning New York Liberty team this season. She proved this year that she’s an all-around player who can score from anywhere, defend, find the open player, and rebound.
4. Angel Reese
Angel Reese was in the Rookie of the Year conversation for a large part of the 2024 WNBA season thanks to her impressive rebounding skills. In fact, she broke the WNBA record for most consecutive double-doubles in a season! While she needs to work on her field goal percentage, her motor is unmatched.
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3. Aliyah Boston
Aliyah Boston was the number one pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft and she has lived up to the hype. She is an elite rebounder and shot-blocker, and her offensive game is only getting better (thanks in large part to some great passes by her teammate).
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2. Rhyne Howard
Simply put, the 2022 Rookie of the Year is a scoring machine. Rhyne Howard’s ability to shoot from deep, attack the basket, and defend multiple positions makes her one of the best in the league.
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1. Caitlin Clark
There’s no question Caitlin Clark is the best WNBA player 25 or under. She had a historic rookie year — evening finishing fourth in the MVP race — and helped to bring the Indiana Fever back to the playoffs. She’s obviously a great shooter, but it’s her passing that really sets her apart from everyone else on this list.
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