The 2024 WNBA Finals between the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx are set to begin on Thursday, with star players and underdog stories on both sides. Five players who received MVP votes will be competing, including Napheesa Collier, Breanna Stewart, and Sabrina Ionescu. Both teams have key players who were second-round draft picks, such as Bridget Carleton, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, and Leonie Fiebich.
As we head into Game 1, ESPN analysts debut their player impact rankings for the WNBA Finals. These rankings are based on the players’ performances in the 2024 postseason, highlighting those who are expected to have a significant influence on the championship series. Let’s take a closer look at the top 15 players and their impact on the upcoming games.
Napheesa Collier leads the way for the Minnesota Lynx, boasting impressive playoff stats and a strong defensive presence. Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty is looking to make up for her performance in last year’s Finals and has been a standout player this postseason. Sabrina Ionescu has been a scoring force for the Liberty and will be a key player to watch in the Finals.
Jonquel Jones, Courtney Williams, and Kayla McBride are also players to keep an eye on, as they have been pivotal to their teams’ success in the playoffs. Leonie Fiebich has been a standout rookie for the Liberty, making a significant impact on both ends of the court. Alanna Smith, Bridget Carleton, and Betnijah Laney-Hamilton are other players who will play crucial roles in the upcoming series.
Courtney Vandersloot, Natisha Hiedeman, Myisha Hines-Allen, Kayla Thornton, and Cecilia Zandalasini round out the top 15 players in the Finals, each bringing their unique skills and contributions to their respective teams. With a mix of experience, talent, and determination, these players are poised to deliver an exciting and competitive series for fans to enjoy.
As the WNBA Finals kick off, all eyes will be on these 15 players as they battle it out on the court for the championship title. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exhilarating series filled with top-tier talent and thrilling matchups.
