The eighth week of the WNBA season is coming to a close. Teams have been on a hot streak closing the gap on the league leader, while others have lost more than expected. With that, here are the top five teams leading the WNBA Power Rankings.
WNBA Power Rankings: Week 8
1. Las Vegas Aces
Unsurprisingly, the Las Vegas Aces are the best team in WNBA. They have only lost one game with a record of 11-1. Aja Wilson is continuing her MVP run averaging 18.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, and 1.3 steals. The Aces have a wealth of depth with contributions from Kelsey Plum, Candace Parker, and Jackie Young. All of these players were WNBA All-Stars last year. The Aces lead the league in several statistical categories including points per game, field goal percentage, blocks, steals, and three-pointers.
2. New York Liberty
The New York Liberty have the third-best record in the league (8-3) but are playing like a top contender. They lead the league in assists per game and are top three in points, blocks, field-goal percentage, and three-point percentage. Breanna Stewart is making a strong case for the MVP. She is one of the top three players in the league in points, rebounds, and blocks per game. In addition, the Liberty have some of the best depth with Sabrina Ionescu, Courtney Vandersloot, and Jonquel Jones. They even have the tallest player in the WNBA coming off the bench. The Liberty are growing into the team to beat this year.
3. Connecticut Sun
The Sun have the second-best record in the league at 11-3. Additionally, they are tied for the best defensive team in the WNBA. Their stellar defense has allowed them to slow offenses down and win games. They are no slouch on offense either ranking top five in points per game and three-pointers. Meanwhile, Alyssa Thomas looks like an All-Star and a clear All-Defensive player. She is averaging 13.9 points, 10.4 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. The Sun’s play could push them into becoming the best team in the league.
4. Washington Mystics
The Mystics not only have the fourth-best record in the league (8-4), but they are third-best in scoring and defense. Elena Delle Donne is top 15 in points, 3-point field goal percentage, and blocks. Even more, her teammate Brittany Sykes is leading the league in steals per game. The Mystics have won seven of their last ten games and could continue to rise in the rankings.
5. Dallas Wings
The Dallas Wings round out the power rankings as they are tied for the fifth-best record in the league (6-6). The Wings rank first in the WNBA in rebounds. Additionally, they are third in points per game and second in free throw percentage. Arike Ogunbowale ranks 12th in the league in points and steals per game. The Wings could rise up the rankings if they continue to play well.
Honorable Mention
Chicago Sky: The Sky have struggled more than expected. They are on a five-game losing streak, but they started the season as one of the best teams in the league. At one point, they ranked second in team defense and shot 38% for three-pointers. They can turn things around to become a top team again.
