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WNBA Roster Cuts 2025: Notable Players Waived and Team Updates
about 1 year agoUS
As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, teams are finalizing their rosters, leading to tough decisions and notable player cuts. This article summarizes the key roster moves and provides a team-by-team update on the final cuts.
Key Insights
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Several notable college players, including Shyanne Sellers and Deja Kelly, have been waived despite the expansion to 13 teams.
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The limited number of roster spots (156 total) intensifies competition between rookies and veterans.
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Roster cuts are primarily driven by roster limitations rather than salary cap issues.
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Waived players often pursue opportunities in overseas leagues, some of which offer competitive salaries.
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Several teams, including the Golden State Valkyries and Connecticut Sun, still have multiple cuts to make to reach the final roster size.
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Why this matters:: Understanding the dynamics of WNBA roster cuts highlights the challenges faced by aspiring players and the strategic decisions teams must make.
In-Depth Analysis
The WNBA's small roster size creates a highly competitive environment where even promising rookies face the risk of being waived. With only 12 spots per team, coaches and general managers must prioritize players who fit their system and can contribute immediately.
Team-by-Team Updates:
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Indiana Fever:: Likely finalized roster with 12 players, possibly exploring free agency.
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Las Vegas Aces:: Waived Deja Kelly and need to make one more cut.
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New York Liberty:: Need to cut at least three players, considering Betnijah Laney-Hamilton's injury.
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Minnesota Lynx:: Likely to make two more moves to reach 11 players.
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Phoenix Mercury:: Significant cuts coming, with five more players needing to be waived.
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Dallas Wings:: Need to make 1-2 more cuts, deciding on rookies JJ Quinerly and Azaiha James.
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Seattle Storm:: 2-3 more cuts to make, younger players at risk.
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Golden State Valkyries:: Five more players need to be cut as an expansion team.
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Connecticut Sun:: At least six cuts needed, including one drafted player.
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Chicago Sky:: Likely finalized roster after recent cuts.
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Washington Mystics:: 4-5 cuts to make, with several players on the bubble.
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Atlanta Dream:: 2-3 more cuts to come, including the possibility of waiving Shyanne Sellers again.
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Los Angeles Sparks:: Three more cuts needed, deciding on draftees and training camp signees.
Shyanne Sellers' Situation:
Shyanne Sellers was initially waived by the Golden State Valkyries, picked up by the Atlanta Dream, and then waived again after a less-than-stellar preseason performance. Concerns about a previous knee injury and her fit with the Valkyries' fast-paced style of play contributed to these decisions.
How to Prepare:
Aspiring WNBA players should focus on developing a well-rounded skillset, demonstrating versatility, and maintaining peak physical condition. Networking and making a strong impression during training camps are also crucial.
Who This Affects Most:
These cuts primarily affect rookies and undrafted players striving to secure a spot in the WNBA. They also impact fans who are eager to see new talent on the court.
FAQs
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Q: Why are so many WNBA players getting waived?
The limited number of roster spots (156) cannot accommodate all the talented players coming from the NCAA.
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Q: Is the salary cap a factor in WNBA roster cuts?
Roster restrictions, rather than salary cap limitations, are the primary driver of cuts.
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Q: What happens to players who get waived from WNBA teams?
Many waived players pursue opportunities to play in overseas leagues.
Key Takeaways
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The WNBA is highly competitive, and making a roster spot is challenging, especially for rookies.
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Roster cuts are driven by limited spots and the need for players who fit specific team systems.
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Waived players often find opportunities in international leagues.
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The Valkyries' decision to waive Shyanne Sellers highlights the importance of team fit and player health.
Discussion
Do you think the WNBA should expand roster sizes or create a developmental league to provide more opportunities for players? Let us know in the comments!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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