Valkyries Top 2027 WNBA Rankings After Clinching Title
Golden State leads early projections for the upcoming season, while Atlanta Dream and Las Vegas Aces face roster uncertainties.
By Ricardo Alvarez ·
The Golden State Valkyries finished the 2026 season as champions, and early projections place them at the top of the league for the coming year. Coach Natalie Nakase said she has spent no time thinking about 2027, keeping her focus entirely on winning the 2026 title. The team secured the championship with a Game 7 victory over the Atlanta Dream on Saturday.
The Valkyries ranked No. 1 in the 2026 regular season and hold that position in early 2027 rankings. Key players Gabby Williams, Veronica Burton, Kiah Stokes, and Kaila Charles are under contract for the next season. Williams led the team in scoring during the regular season and playoffs, while Stokes provided defensive impact in the postseason. Both players joined Golden State as free agents for the 2026 campaign.
The Atlanta Dream finished 2026 as the runner-up and are projected to start the next season in a strong position. The team has five starters under contract, including forward Angel Reese, guards Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, and forward Brionna Jones. Jones missed most of the 2026 season due to a leg injury but is expected to return. The Dream will move into State Farm Arena full time in 2027.
The Las Vegas Aces finished 2026 with a 31-13 record but lost to Golden State in the semifinals. Center A'ja Wilson and guard Chelsea Gray are signed for next season, but guard Jackie Young is a free agent. The Aces have maintained a high standard for performance over the past six seasons with their core trio. Re-signing Young and adding depth are key priorities for the franchise.
The Washington Mystics overachieved in their youth-heavy 2026 season, finishing with a 28-16 record. The team is projected to rise in the rankings for 2027 due to the return of young players Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonia Citron. The Mystics will carry playoff experience into the next season.
The Indiana Fever will have new leadership in player personnel, as president Kelly Krauskopf and general manager Amber Cox are not returning. The team faces a key decision regarding free agent guard Kelsey Mitchell, who has played in Indianapolis for nine seasons. The Fever must determine if Mitchell will remain part of a backcourt with Caitlin Aliyah Boston.
The New York Liberty struggled with injuries in 2026, finishing 26-18. Forward Satou Sabally played in only 13 games due to concussion issues. Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, Sabrina Ionescu, and Leonie Fiebich are under contract for 2027. Coach Chris DeMarco remains with the team despite questions about his job after one season.
