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.

With her first signature sneaker released on Tuesday, Wilson finished the exhibition victory one three-pointer shy of a complete stat line. The three-time MVP didn’t have her best night shooting the basketball, but she provided solid value across the board. Wilson was one of the top players to have rostered in fantasy basketball last season, and that’s highly unlikely to change in 2025. She’s on the extremely short list of players who should be considered for the top overall pick in fantasy drafts.

After sitting out Saturday’s exhibition win over the Mystics, Clark made her first appearance of the preseason in her old stomping grounds. While dealing with a left leg injury, the reigning Rookie of the Year was not restricted. Clark hit the exercise bike after her first stint on the court, but that was about keeping her leg warm. The former Iowa standout capped her first game in Iowa City since the 2024 NCAA tournament with a 36-footer from behind the spot where she broke the NCAA’s all-time scoring record. Clark should be one of the first picks in fantasy drafts regardless of league format, with Las Vegas’ A’ja Wilson being the other notable option.

Clark’s injury is not serious; she was a game-time decision for Saturday’s preseason opener. Sunday’s exhibition against Brazil in Iowa City factored into the decision not to play the reigning Rookie of the Year. Look for Clark to see her first action of the preseason in that contest. Offseason addition Sydney Colson will start alongside Kelsey Mitchell in the Fever backcourt.