Full Breakdown
The 2025 WNBA MVP Race: Aja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Alyssa Thomas
9/9/2025, 7:55:00 PM
Overview of the MVP Candidates
As the 2025 WNBA MVP award approaches, three players stand out: Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx, A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces, and Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury. Each has demonstrated exceptional performance, leadership, and statistical achievements, making the competition for the award particularly compelling.
Napheesa Collier's Impact
Napheesa Collier is having a remarkable season, leading the Lynx to unprecedented regular-season success. With a net rating of 12.6, the Lynx rank among the top teams in WNBA history. Collier is currently second in scoring, averaging 23 points per game with a 63 percent true shooting percentage. Her efficiency in pick-and-roll situations is notable, as she ranks as the most efficient scorer among bigs involved in multiple pick-and-rolls. Additionally, her improved three-point shooting—39 percent on four attempts per game—has significantly enhanced her offensive value. Defensively, Collier excels with strong steal and block numbers, contributing to the Lynx's best record and ratings in both offense and defense when she is on the court.
A’ja Wilson's Dominance
A’ja Wilson has also made a strong case for the MVP title. Currently averaging 23.6 points per game, Wilson leads the league in scoring while maintaining a shooting percentage of 50.2. Her rebounding average stands at 10.1 per game, and she leads the league with 2.2 blocks per game. Wilson's defensive prowess often deters opponents from attacking the paint, showcasing her irreplaceable role on the Aces. Having previously won the MVP award in 2020, 2022, and 2024, her current performance solidifies her position as a frontrunner for the honor once again.
Alyssa Thomas's Versatility
Alyssa Thomas has been instrumental in the Mercury's success, leading them to a potential top-four playoff seed. Her versatility at the power forward position allows for a fluid, positionless style of play. Thomas is averaging 15.8 points, 8.9 rebounds, and a league-leading 9.2 assists per game. Notably, she has recorded seven triple-doubles this season, breaking her own record. Thomas's all-around contributions have made her a key player for the Mercury, and her impact on the team's performance is significant.
Criticism & Opposition
While each candidate has strong credentials, the debate over the MVP award often centers on the definition of "value." Critics argue that the award should go to the player whose absence would most significantly impact their team's success. This perspective raises questions about how to weigh individual statistics against team performance.
Official Statements & Responses
Analysts and fans alike have expressed varying opinions on the MVP race. Some emphasize Collier's two-way excellence, while others highlight Wilson's scoring and defensive capabilities. Thomas's historic triple-doubles have also garnered attention, making the discussion around the MVP award multifaceted.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The point being, Collier provides a level of shooting and spacing that very few bigs in league history can ever boast.” — Josh Felton
- “And without them, a team’s best and worst outcomes plummet to a level far below what they would be when said MVP player is available.” — Edwin Garcia
- “It would be hard for any one player to be more impactful for their respective team than Thomas has been for the Mercury, and though she’s fallen just short of MVP honors in previous years, her case has never been stronger than it is in 2025.” — Eric Nemchock
As the season progresses, the competition for the 2025 WNBA MVP award remains intense, with each candidate showcasing unique strengths and contributions to their teams.
