Bueckers’ highly anticipated rookie debut was met with mixed results. The No. 1 pick started strong with a couple of early baskets and four first-quarter points before struggling to find the shooting touch the remainder of the way. Still, Bueckers landed in double figures on the night and found a way to make an impact in other areas, securing more rebounds than any other Dallas player and registering a block on the defensive end. She wasn’t the most impressive rookie on Friday night, but is still expected to be the most productive rookie in fantasy leagues throughout the season.

Collier rolled into the 2025 season much like how she ended the previous, with high-level scoring and moments where she appeared unstoppable. Specifically, Collier’s takeover moment in Friday’s victory came in the third quarter, where she logged 18 points to put the Lynx in firm control heading into the final frame. Though the reigning defensive player of the year didn’t record a block or steal, it’s too early for fantasy managers to worry. Collier provided contributions as a passer, in addition to her scoring, showing in this opening game exactly why she has a chance to be a top finisher in fantasy leagues this season.

Griner had a somewhat slow start to her debut with Atlanta before really getting things going late in this one. The 10-time WNBA All-Star put together a spirited fourth-quarter effort on the offensive end to nearly catapult the Dream to a come-from-behind victory. Though the jersey was different for the first time in her WNBA career, Griner remained productive inside the arc, both at the rim and in the midrange, and was a presence at the rim defensively. Griner will only grow in comfort while getting acclimated to her new team, which should leave fantasy managers optimistic about her season.

The lower back contusion that sidelined Edwards for the preseason will also keep her out for Washington’s season opener. Her absence will mean more playing time for Emily Engstler and Kiki Iriafen. Engstler started Washington’s preseason games at the four and should remain in that role until Edwards is cleared to return. Iriafen, one of the Mystics’ three first-round picks, offers a higher long-term upside than Engstler.

Stewart needed just 15 minutes of action to display the well-rounded skill set that’ll have her widely selected as a top-3 player in fantasy drafts. The decorated three-time WNBA champion and two-time league MVP had active hands on the defensive end and displayed efficient shot-making on the offensive side from the opening tip. Given her size and skill at the position, she remains one of the toughest covers in the league for opposing defenses. Despite logging limited minutes of preseason action, it appears Stewart will be in good form for the Liberty as they gear up for their season opener against the Aces on May 17.

Ionescu did not disappoint on Monday at Matthew Knight Arena in Eugene, a place she once called home. The former Oregon Duck put on a dazzling display of shot-making throughout and closed the show with an entertaining 11-point fourth quarter that included three triples. Ionescu’s performance should be a confidence builder for fantasy managers preparing to select her early in drafts, where she’s projected to be a top-10 pick. Ionescu’s three-point shooting seems to be sharp, and she’ll roll into the season-opener against the Aces on May 17 with great momentum.

Williams was among the best players at last summer’s Olympics in Paris, nearly leading France to an upset of the United States in the gold medal game. Malonga played limited minutes as a reserve but is considered France’s next elite basketball talent. Unfortunately for France, both have elected to focus their efforts this summer on the WNBA, foregoing representing their nation at EuroBasket. Due to salary cap rules and the ACL tear suffered by Katie Lou Samuelson, the Storm will likely begin this season with 10 active players. Williams and Malonga’s decision not to join their national team, with France opening its pre-tournament camp on Sunday, significantly boosts the Storm’s chances of contending.

After a solid preseason debut on May 2, Bueckers looked more comfortable with her new teammates on Saturday. Of course, there’s something to be said for the difference in competition, as the Antelopes don’t compare to the Las Vegas Aces. However, the top overall pick in last month’s draft was efficient in her 23 minutes on the court, shooting 75 percent from the field and only committing two turnovers. How comfortable Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale become playing alongside each other will significantly impact the Wings’ outlook in 2025. As for fantasy basketball, Bueckers should be the first rookie drafted, regardless of league format or size.

Saturday’s preseason finale was more valuable to the Wings in terms of allowing them to evaluate the players competing for the final roster spots further. Ogunbowale, one of the WNBA’s best scorers, does not qualify. She was efficient in her 20 minutes on the court, both as a scorer and a playmaker for others. With Paige Bueckers in the fold, Ogunbowale’s ability to lead statistically and in the intangibles department will be critical for the Wings as they aim to compete for a playoff spot. Ogunbowale should be one of the first guards off the board in fantasy drafts, regardless of league size or format.