The confetti has barely settled, but the early 2027 WNBA power rankings are already here — and the Golden State Valkyries open the new season exactly where they finished the last one: on top.
Fresh off their historic Game 7 championship in just their second season, the Valkyries sit No. 1 in the first look at 2027. And they aren’t standing pat — the champs reportedly plan to spend over $1 million in free agency to chase a second straight title, with a target like Napheesa Collier in their sights.
Where Do the Valkyries Rank? At the Summit — With Questions
Core pieces Gabby Williams and Veronica Burton remain under contract, but the roster has open questions around Kayla Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini and Kaitlyn Chen, plus the possibility of veteran Tiffany Hayes retiring a second time.
The Atlanta Dream, fresh off a seven-game Finals heartbreak, retain most of their 2026 roster — Angel Reese, Jordin Canada, Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard — and a healthy Bri Jones could push them past 30 wins again.
Aces, Lynx and Fever Round Out the Top Five
The Las Vegas Aces remain a threat with A’ja Wilson in her prime, though an aging Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young’s pending free agency raise depth concerns. Minnesota Lynx will lean on rising star Olivia Miles plus veterans Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams — with Collier’s free-agency decision potentially reshaping their outlook.
The Indiana Fever land in the top five behind Aliyah Boston and Caitlin Clark, though Kelsey Mitchell’s free-agency plans and a front-office reshuffle add offseason uncertainty.
With the Houston Comets (formerly the Connecticut Sun) and new franchises in Portland and Toronto joining the fray, 2027 is shaping up as the most fascinating season in league history. The Valkyries just have to make sure their way-too-early crown survives the winter.
Also Read: Golden State Valkyries Beat Dream 68-63 in Game 7 to Win First WNBA Title
Also Read: Atlanta Dream Beat Valkyries 80-69 to Force First Ever WNBA Finals Game 7
Source: ESPN — read the full story there.