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Chicago Sky 2025 WNBA Season Prediction: Over 19.5 Wins Bet Is a Slam Dunk

ANGEL REESE

Chicago Sky 2025 WNBA Season Preview: Why the Over 19.5 Wins Bet Is a Slam Dunk – By ASA

The Chicago Sky are poised for a breakout 2025 WNBA season, and the betting line of Over 19.5 wins is looking like a play for savvy sports bettors. Coming off a 13-win campaign in 2024, the Sky have bolstered their roster with key veteran additions and are banking on significant growth from their young stars. With a foundation as the league’s second-best rebounding team last season and a revamped lineup featuring newcomers Kia Nurse, Courtney Vandersloot, and Rebecca Allen, Chicago is ready to soar past expectations. Here’s why the Sky are a safe bet to eclipse 19.5 wins in 2025.

Last Season’s Foundation: Rebounding Dominance and Room for Growth

In 2024, the Chicago Sky finished with a 13-27 record, but their underlying stats paint a picture of a team with untapped potential. Most notably, the Sky were the second-best rebounding team in the WNBA, trailing only the New York Liberty. They averaged 36.8 rebounds per game, including a league-leading 10.8 offensive rebounds per game. This dominance on the glass translated to second-chance points and control of the game’s tempo, a formula that often leads to wins when paired with improved offensive efficiency.

The Sky’s rebounding prowess was driven by rookies Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, who emerged as a formidable frontcourt duo despite their inexperience. Reese, the No. 7 overall pick, averaged 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game, earning WNBA All-Star honors and setting a league record for consecutive double-doubles. Cardoso, the No. 3 pick, battled injuries but still contributed 9.1 points and 7.9 rebounds per game in limited minutes. Both players showed flashes of brilliance but were held back by typical rookie inefficiencies, such as turnovers and inconsistent shooting (Reese shot 39.1% from the field, Cardoso 45.5%).

The Sky’s offense, however, was a weak point in 2024, ranking 10th in offensive rating (96.7) and struggling with perimeter shooting (31.9% from three, 11th in the league). Their defense was middle-of-the-pack, allowing 103.2 points per 100 possessions (7th). These areas of improvement are exactly where the Sky’s new additions and second-year growth come into play.

New Faces, New Strengths: Nurse, Vandersloot, and Allen

The Sky’s front office made strategic moves to address their weaknesses, adding three proven veterans to complement their young core. The projected 2025 roster includes Kia Nurse, Courtney Vandersloot, and Rebecca Allen, each bringing skills that directly address Chicago’s 2024 shortcomings.

Kia Nurse: A sharpshooting guard, Nurse is a career 34.8% three-point shooter who averaged 9.6 points per game with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2024. Her ability to stretch the floor will open up driving lanes for Reese and Cardoso, forcing defenses to respect the perimeter. Nurse’s veteran presence also adds stability to a backcourt that lacked consistent scoring last season.

Courtney Vandersloot: A Chicago Sky legend returns after a stint with the New York Liberty. Vandersloot, one of the WNBA’s premier point guards, averaged 6.4 points and 7.2 assists per game in 2024, with a career assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.8. Her playmaking will elevate the Sky’s offense, reducing the pressure on Reese and Cardoso to create their own shots. Vandersloot’s experience in high-pressure situations and familiarity with the Chicago fanbase make her a perfect fit.

Rebecca Allen: A defensive stalwart and versatile wing, Allen averaged 7.8 points and 3.8 rebounds with the Phoenix Mercury in 2024, shooting 34.7% from three. Her ability to guard multiple positions and knock down open shots adds flexibility to the Sky’s lineup. Allen’s defensive tenacity will help improve Chicago’s middling defensive rating, while her shooting complements Nurse’s outside threat.

These additions transform the Sky into a well-rounded team with improved spacing, playmaking, and defensive versatility—key ingredients for a significant win-total jump.

Second-Year Surge: Reese and Cardoso Ready to Shine

The Sky’s rebounding dominance in 2024 was driven by rookies Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, and their second-year improvements could be the catalyst for a playoff push. Young players typically make their biggest leaps between their first and second seasons, and both Reese and Cardoso have the tools to become All-WNBA-caliber talents.

Angel Reese: Already a rebounding machine, Reese’s 13.1 rebounds per game ranked second in the WNBA in 2024. Her relentless motor and knack for offensive rebounds (5.1 per game, league-leading) gave the Sky extra possessions, but her offensive game has room to grow. Improving her field-goal percentage (39.1%) and developing a midrange jumper could push her scoring closer to 16-18 points per game. With Vandersloot feeding her easy looks, Reese’s efficiency should climb, making her an even bigger threat.

Kamilla Cardoso: Limited by injuries in 2024, Cardoso still showed why she was a top draft pick. Her 7.9 rebounds per game and 1.4 blocks in just 26.2 minutes highlight her potential as a two-way force. Cardoso’s 45.5% field-goal percentage is solid, but refining her post moves and staying healthy could see her average a double-double in 2025. Her rim protection will also benefit from Allen’s perimeter defense, creating a stingier Sky defense.

Why Over 19.5 Wins Is the Play

The Sky’s 13 wins in 2024 were weighed down by a rookie-heavy roster, offensive inefficiencies, and injuries. With Nurse, Vandersloot, and Allen addressing key weaknesses and Reese and Cardoso poised for second-year leaps, Chicago is built to contend for a playoff spot in 2025. The Sky’s rebounding advantage—already elite at 36.8 rebounds per game—will be amplified by better floor spacing and playmaking, leading to more possessions and higher-scoring outputs.

A conservative estimate for the Sky’s improvement would add 5-7 wins from roster upgrades, 3-4 wins from Reese and Cardoso’s development, and 1-3 wins from better health, chemistry and a new coach. That puts them in the 21-24 win range. Let’s not forget the WNBA schedule is longer this season at 44-games instead of 40. This Sky roster has the talent to achieve a .500 record or better.

Final Prediction

The Chicago Sky are flying under the radar, but their mix of veteran savvy, young talent, and rebounding dominance makes them a dangerous team in 2025. Bet the Over 19.5 and you can even consider a -123 bet to make the Playoffs.

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WNBA Prediction Minnesota Lynx 2025: Why Over 26.5 Wins

minnesota lynx

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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WNBA Free Bet | Mystics vs Sky Prediction | Sept 11 2024

ASA WNBA free play on Washington Mystics +1 at Chicago Sky, 8PM ET

These two teams have near identical records with the Mystic 14-24 SU, the Sky are 13-22 SU. The Mystic though have been under-valued by the oddsmakers all season long with a 23-11-1 ATS record compared to the Sky who are 16-19 ATS.

Washington has played well of late with a 5-2 SU record their last seven games which includes several quality wins. The two losses in that stretch came to the Lynx and Sun who are two of the best four teams in the league. Also included in that stretch is a road win against this same Sky team with Angel Reese in the lineup for Chicago.

The Sky had lost 7 straight games prior to winning their last two against the Sparks and Wings. The most recent win was an upset as they were without Reese (injured out for the season) yet won 92-77 at home over the Wings as a +4-point dog.

Since the Olympic break the Mystics have played much better than the Sky with a Net rating of -1.8 compared to the Sky who have a Net rating of -5.2.

This will be a tight game but we like the Mystic to prevail by single-digits.

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