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WNBA Prediction Minnesota Lynx 2025: Why Over 26.5 Wins

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Minnesota Lynx 2025 WNBA Season Preview: Why Over 26.5 Wins – By ASA

The Minnesota Lynx are being undervalued in the 2025 WNBA betting markets, with a win total set at Over 26.5 wins. Coming off a stellar 30-10 regular season in 2024 that saw them reach the WNBA Finals, the Lynx return the core of their roster, including MVP contender Napheesa Collier. Bolstered by elite metrics from last season—third-best net rating (+8.0), fourth-best effective field goal percentage (51.8%), and third-best scoring differential (+6.4 PPG)—Minnesota is primed to dominate again. Here’s why betting the Over 26.5 wins is a no-brainer for the 2025 season.

2024 Recap: A Dominant Foundation

The Lynx were a powerhouse in the 2024 regular season, finishing with 30 wins and a 75% win percentage, second only to the New York Liberty. Their success was built on a balanced attack and suffocating defense, as evidenced by their elite statistical profile:

  • Net Rating: +8.0 (3rd in WNBA)
    Minnesota’s net rating, which measures point differential per 100 possessions, was among the league’s best, trailing only the Liberty and Las Vegas Aces. This metric reflects their ability to outplay opponents on both ends of the floor, a hallmark of championship contenders.
  • Effective Field Goal Percentage: 51.8% (4th in WNBA)
    The Lynx were highly efficient offensively, with an eFG% that accounted for the added value of three-pointers. Their balanced scoring attack, led by Collier’s versatility and contributions from guards like Kayla McBride (14.9 PPG, 38.7% 3P), ensured they maximized their possessions.
  • Scoring Differential: +6.4 PPG (3rd in WNBA)
    Minnesota outscored opponents by an average of 6.4 points per game, a testament to their ability to control games. They ranked fourth in offensive rating (103.5) and third in defensive rating (95.5), showcasing their two-way dominance.

The Lynx also excelled in clutch situations, posting a 15-5 record in games decided by five points or less, per WNBA.com stats. Their ability to close out tight games, combined with their statistical excellence, made them a formidable force. Despite falling to the Liberty in the 2024 Finals, Minnesota’s 30-win season was no fluke, and their returning roster suggests they’ll remain elite.

Continuity Is Key: Returning Core and Napheesa Collier’s MVP Case

The Lynx return the majority of their 2024 roster, including their starting five: Napheesa Collier, Kayla McBride, Courtney Williams, Bridget Carleton, and Alanna Smith. This continuity is a massive advantage in a league where chemistry and familiarity often separate good teams from great ones.

  • Napheesa Collier: The 28-year-old forward is coming off a career-best 2024 season, averaging 20.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.9 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game on 49.2% shooting. Collier ranked third in MVP voting and earned All-WNBA First Team honors. Her two-way dominance—she’s also a Defensive Player of the Year candidate—makes her the engine of this team. Recent rankings from Her Hoop Stats place her among the top three players in the WNBA, and her performance in the Unrivaled 3×3 league (where she won MVP) signals she’s only getting better.
  • Supporting Cast: The Lynx’s depth is a strength. Kayla McBride provides elite shooting (38.7% from three), while Courtney Williams (8.5 assists per game) orchestrates the offense. Bridget Carleton (39.1% 3P) and Alanna Smith (1.5 blocks per game) add defensive versatility and floor spacing. This group’s cohesion, honed over a full season and playoff run, should lead to an even sharper start in 2025.

The only concern is health, Collier was the only starter to miss significant time in 2024. However, Minnesota’s depth and coaching under Cheryl Reeve—the 2024 WNBA Coach of the Year—mitigate this risk. Reeve’s system maximizes player strengths, as evidenced by the Lynx’s top-tier metrics.

Why Over 26.5 Wins Is a Safe Bet

The Lynx’s 30-win season in 2024 sets a high bar, but the 26.5-win line feels disrespectful given their returning talent and statistical dominance. If this was last season, to hit the Over, Minnesota needs a 27-13 record or better in the 40-game season—a 67.5% win percentage. That’s a step back from their 75% clip last year, but well within reach for a team that hasn’t lost any key pieces. Now factor in they get 4-more games added to their regular season schedule in 2025 which should make getting to 27 wins that much easier.

Consider the following:

  • Favorable Schedule Dynamics: Minnesota’s 17-3 home record in 2024 (best in the league) gives them a strong foundation. Winning 16-18 home games and splitting their road games (11-11) gets them to 27 wins.
  • Motivation and Experience: After coming up short in the Finals, the Lynx are hungry. Collier’s MVP candidacy and Reeve’s leadership ensure this team won’t rest on its laurels.

Final Prediction

The Minnesota Lynx are a championship-caliber team being slept on at Over 26.5 wins. With Napheesa Collier leading an MVP-caliber campaign, a cohesive roster, and elite metrics like a +8.0 net rating, 51.8% eFG%, and +6.4 PPG scoring differential, they’re built to win 27-30 games in 2025. Bet the Over with confidence—Minnesota is ready to prove the doubters wrong.

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WNBA predictions | 2025 Draft Breakdown | Rookie of the Year bets

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ASA breaks down the 2025 WNBA draft and offers Rookie of the Year Longshots

We have a quick breakdown of the first-round draft in the WNBA from Tuesday night as we prepare for our second season of handicapping women’s professional basketball. Last season we destroyed the Books with a +40-Net Unit season in the WNBA and we look forward to doing it again in 2025. The preseason starts May 2nd with the regular season tipping off on Friday, May 16th. Watch for available WNBA packages from ASA in the coming weeks.

+40-Net Units won
18-5 O/U record
30-13 Hot streak

Be sure to pay attention to our WNBA Rookie of the Year predictions below with a +3000 and a +8000 longshots who we like to cash the ROY ticket.

The 2025 WNBA Draft took place on April 14, 2025, at The Shed at Hudson Yards in New York City, marking the 29th draft in league history. It was a pivotal event for the league, introducing new talent to a 44-game season, the longest ever—and welcoming the expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries. The draft featured 12 first-round picks, as the Las Vegas Aces’ selection was rescinded due to violations involving impermissible player benefits. ESPN is trying desperately to portray Paige Buechers as the next Kaitlyn Clark but do not be fooled by the talking-heads and their rhetoric. Buechers is going to be a great addition to the Wings, but she’s not on Clarks level. Below is a breakdown of the first-round players and the teams that drafted them, based on available information.

#1 Paige Bueckers – Dallas Wings

Position: Point Guard

College: UConn

Overview: The consensus top pick, Bueckers was fresh off leading UConn to a national championship. A versatile guard with elite scoring (19.8 PPG career average), playmaking (4.6 APG), and shooting (42.3% from three), she’s poised to be a franchise cornerstone alongside Arike Ogunbowale. Her accolades include the Wooden Award, Naismith Award, and three Big East Player of the Year honors.

#2 Dominique Malonga – Seattle Storm

Position: Center

Club/Country: ASVEL Féminin/France

Overview: A 19-year-old French phenom, Malonga brings size (6’6”) and upside. Averaging 15.4 points and 10.3 rebounds in France’s top league, she also competed in the 2024 Olympics. Her selection adds depth to Seattle’s frontcourt, where she can develop under veterans like Ezi Magbegor.

#3 Sonia Citron – Washington Mystics

Position: Guard

College: Notre Dame

Overview: Citron, a First-Team All-ACC selection, offers defensive versatility and spot-up shooting (14.1 PPG, 5.4 RPG). Her steady, high-IQ play makes her a fit for the rebuilding Mystics, who hold multiple first-round picks.

#4 Kiki Iriafen – Washington Mystics

Position: Power Forward

College: USC

Overview: Iriafen’s athleticism and face-up game (reliable finisher around the basket) make her a strong addition. While her 3-point shooting needs growth, her scoring and rebounding prowess suit Washington’s need for frontcourt talent.

#5 Justė Jocytė – Golden State Valkyries

Position: Forward

Club/Country: ASVEL Lyon/Lithuania

Overview: The Valkyries, in their inaugural draft, selected the 19-year-old Lithuanian for her playmaking and 6’2” frame. Playing professionally in France, Jocytė brings international experience and versatility to an expansion roster building from scratch.

#6 Georgia Amoore – Washington Mystics

Position: Point Guard

College: Kentucky

Overview: Amoore, known for her SEC assists leadership, averaged 14.1 points and 7.3 assists. Her Australian flair and court vision give the Mystics a dynamic backcourt option, complementing their earlier picks.

#7 Aneesah Morrow – Connecticut Sun

Position: Forward

College: LSU

Overview: Morrow led the nation in rebounding (13.5 RPG) and double-doubles (29) at LSU. Her 30-point, 19-rebound Sweet 16 performance showcased her scoring and defensive skills, making her a high-upside pick for the rebuilding Sun.

**ROOKIE OF THE YEAR +3000** Aneesah Morrow, selected seventh overall by the Connecticut Sun in the 2025 WNBA Draft, is a strong contender for Rookie of the Year at +3000 odds due to her elite production and fit with a rebuilding team. Coming off an LSU career where she led the nation in rebounding (13.5 RPG) and double-doubles (29), Morrow’s relentless scoring (16.4 PPG) and defensive tenacity make her a standout. Her 30-point, 19-rebound Sweet 16 performance showcased her ability to dominate. Joining a Sun squad looking to replace departed veterans, Morrow should see significant minutes alongside Alyssa Thomas, whose playmaking (7.9 APG last season) will create easy scoring chances for Morrow inside. With Connecticut’s defensive focus drawing attention to Thomas and DeWanna Bonner, Morrow’s rebounding prowess and efficient finishing (51.8% FG at LSU) position her to rack up stats and make an immediate impact, offering excellent value for the rookie award.

#8 Saniya Rivers – Connecticut Sun

Position: Guard/Forward

College: NC State

Overview: A versatile wing, Rivers (11.9 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 3.8 APG) helped NC State reach the Final Four. Her defensive potential and all-around game align with Connecticut’s need for multi-faceted players.

#9 Sarah Ashlee Barker – Los Angeles Sparks

Position: Guard

College: Alabama

Overview: Barker, an All-SEC First-Team pick, averaged 18.2 points and set Alabama’s single-game scoring record (45 points). Her scoring versatility fills the Sparks’ need for perimeter firepower.

**ROOKIE OF THE YEAR +8000** Sarah Ashlee Barker, drafted ninth overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in the 2025 WNBA Draft, is poised to make a significant impact as a rookie and could be a dark-horse candidate for Rookie of the Year at +8000 odds. Joining a Sparks team that struggled with an 8-32 record last season, Barker will likely see ample playing time on a roster craving offensive firepower. Paired with veteran Kelsey Plum, acquired from Las Vegas, and alongside last year’s rookie Cameron Brink (expected back from injury by June), Barker steps into a situation ripe for opportunity. Her collegiate stats at Alabama—18.2 points per game on 51% shooting, 37.5% from three, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists—highlight her versatility as a 6’0” guard. Barker’s 45-point game as a senior underscores her scoring ceiling. With opponents likely keying in on DeWanna Hamby (17.3 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.7 SPG), Barker should find open looks, especially from deep, where her efficiency shines. Her ability to score, facilitate, and rebound, combined with the Sparks’ need for immediate contributors, positions her to outperform expectations and potentially claim Rookie of the Year honors in a wide-open race.

#10 Ajša Sivka – Chicago Sky

Position: Power Forward

Club/Country: Tarbes Gespe Bigorre/Slovenia

Overview: The 19-year-old Slovenian brings size (6’3”) and shooting. A draft-and-stash candidate, Sivka’s MVP performance at the 2023 U18 European Championship highlights her potential for Chicago’s future.

#11 Hailey Van Lith – Chicago Sky

Position: Guard

College: TCU

Overview: The Big 12 Player of the Year (17.9 PPG, 5.4 APG) led TCU to the Elite Eight. Reuniting with LSU teammate Angel Reese, Van Lith’s playmaking and grit suit Chicago, where she’ll learn from Courtney Vandersloot.

#12 Aziaha James – Dallas Wings

Position: Guard

College: NC State

Overview: James, an explosive scorer (17.9 PPG), hit 75+ threes in her last two seasons. Her perimeter scoring adds depth to Dallas’ backcourt, complementing Bueckers.

Notes:

The Mystics (three picks) and Sun and Wings (two each) maximized their first-round hauls, reflecting active roster-building.

The draft showcased a mix of college stars (Bueckers, Van Lith) and international talent (Malonga, Jocytė, Sivka), highlighting the WNBA’s global reach.

No official combine exists, but the Lilly Women’s College All-Star Combine during the NCAA Final Four weekend helped scouts evaluate prospects.

This draft sets the stage for a competitive 2025 season, with rookies like Bueckers and Malonga expected to make immediate impacts, but don’t be shocked if neither win the Rookie of the Year award.

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