Ranking 10 Best WNBA Teams: Dallas Wings, Indiana Fever and More

The WNBA has been home to some of basketball’s most dominant and thrilling teams. The league has seen it all from dynasties at the top for years to single-season wonders that have left an unforgettable mark on the fans. It is a well of talent and teamwork at its highest level.

The WNBA has been experiencing significant growth and transformation in recent years. This is marked by the introduction of new teams and expansion efforts. In 2025, the league welcomed the Golden State Valkyries, based in San Francisco, as its 13th team. This expansion was followed by the announcement of the Toronto Tempo. It is set to debut in 2026 as the WNBA’s first franchise outside the United States.

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In this article, we will break down the top 10 best WNBA teams of all time. We will be considering everything, including their records, championship success, star power, and overall impact on the game. Whether they changed the league with their style of play or were better than the competition, these teams have embedded their names into WNBA history.

 Selection Criteria for the Best WNBA Teams in the World

The following piece ranks the best WNBA teams based on factors such as championship wins, playoff success, consistency, legendary players, and overall impact on the league. Teams with multiple WNBA titles, like the Minnesota Lynx, Seattle Storm, and Los Angeles Sparks rank among the greatest. Regular-season dominance, long winning streaks, and MVP-caliber players like Sue Bird, Breanna Stewart, and Candace Parker are good indicators of a team’s legacy. Historic rivalries, iconic playoff moments, and a strong fanbase further tell the fans about a franchise’s status. Market impact and contributions to growing women’s basketball also play a role.

#10. Dallas Wings (1998)

The Dallas Wings franchise began as the Detroit Shock in 1998. Afterward, they relocated to Tulsa (2010-2015) and settled in Dallas in 2016. As the Shock, the team was one of the most dominant in WNBA history. They won three championships (2003, 2006, 2008) under head coach Bill Laimbeer. Shock had a lineup full of players like Deanna Nolan, Katie Smith, and Cheryl Ford leading the way. However, after moving to Tulsa, the team struggled to maintain its success before rebranding as the Dallas Wings.

Since moving to Dallas, the Wings have worked toward rebuilding and developing young talents like Arike Ogunbowale, Satou Sabally, and Natasha Howard. While they have yet to win a championship under the Wings name, they have made multiple playoff appearances. The Wings continue to grow as a competitive force in the WNBA. One of their notable moments came in 2021 when Ogunbowale led the team to their first playoff appearance since 2018.

#9. Chicago Sky (2006)

The Chicago Sky was established in 2006 as an expansion team. After years of building, they became a strong contender in the WNBA. Their breakthrough came in 2014 when they reached their first WNBA Finals, led by Elena Delle Donne, but unfortunately lost to the Phoenix Mercury. The team’s greatest achievement came in 2021 when the Sky won their first WNBA Championship. They were led by Finals MVP Kahleah Copper, Candace Parker, and an exceptional supporting cast.

Chicago’s 2021 championship run was one of the most memorable in WNBA history. They entered the playoffs as a 6th seed and went on to defeat the Phoenix Mercury in the Finals. The Sky have been known for their strong defense, elite scoring, and team chemistry. Their standout players like Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley play crucial roles in the team’s achievements. Though they have faced some roster changes in recent seasons, Chicago remains a competitive team with a dedicated fanbase and a commitment to add to their championship tally.

#8. Atlanta Dream (2008)

Charting 8th on the list of the best WNBA teams is Atlanta Dream, which was established in 2008 as an expansion team. They made three WNBA Finals appearances (2010, 2011, 2013) but fell short each time. They were led by Angel McCoughtry who showed immense regret for not winning the championship each time. The Dream gained a reputation for resilience, strong defense, and dynamic scoring despite not winning the championship.

One of the team’s most notable moments came during the 2020 season when the franchise played a significant role in social justice movements. They helped to inspire political change in Georgia. In recent years, Atlanta has focused on rebuilding, with young stars like Rhyne Howard leading the next era. The Dream continues to be a rising force in the WNBA. They aim to return to championship contention shortly.

#7. Phoenix Mercury (1997)

Phoenix Mercury has secured three WNBA championships in 2007, 2009, and 2014. They have an all-time regular-season record of 383 wins and 383 losses, resulting in an exact .500 winning percentage. They had legendary players like Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, and Cappie Pondexter playing key roles. Taurasi, widely regarded as the greatest WNBA player of all time, has been the face of the franchise. She has been leading the team to multiple deep playoff runs and setting numerous league records.

One of the most iconic moments in Mercury’s history came in 2007. This was when they won their first WNBA title under coach Paul Westhead. In 2014, the team set a league record for most wins in a season (29-5) and secured their third championship. Despite facing ups and downs in recent years, the Mercury remains a powerhouse, consistently making the playoffs and maintaining a strong fanbase. With Brittney Griner’s return in 2023 and continued leadership from Taurasi, Phoenix remains a strong contender in the WNBA.

#6. Indiana Fever (2000)

The Indiana Fever, established in 2000, has been a significant presence in the WNBA. The franchise secured their first WNBA championship in 2012 by defeating the Minnesota Lynx in the Finals. Tamika Catchings was instrumental in this success and earned the Finals MVP award for her outstanding performance. Throughout their history, the Fever have made multiple playoff appearances, including in 2002, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2014, and 2015. They reached the WNBA Finals three times: in 2009, 2012, and 2015, securing the championship in 2012.

In recent years, the Fever has been rebuilding, focusing on young talent to revitalize the team. The 2024 season marked a turning point when they selected Caitlin Clark as the No. 1 overall draft pick. They have made many changes to their style of play in recent years and shifted to more risky and offensive play.

#5. Seattle Storm (1999)

The Seattle Storm was founded in 2000. It quickly became one of the most successful franchises in WNBA history. The team has won four WNBA championships (2004, 2010, 2018, 2020), with legendary players like Sue Bird, Breanna Stewart, and Lauren Jackson leading the way. Sue Bird is one of the greatest point guards in the history of the sport. She played her entire career with the Storm and shaped the team’s culture and legacy.

One of the most iconic moments in Storm’s history came in 2020. They won their fourth championship during a challenging season in the WNBA with Breanna Stewart earning Finals MVP honors. The Storm’s success is built on a foundation of teamwork, selflessness, and strong defense. Their rivalry with teams like the Minnesota Lynx and Los Angeles Sparks has created some of the most memorable matchups in recent years. Storm has a rich history with a mix of veteran leadership and young talent.

#4. Las Vegas Aces (1997)

The Las Vegas Aces was originally founded as the Utah Starzz in 1997. Afterward, they relocated to San Antonio in 2003 and then to Las Vegas in 2018. There they became one of the most dominant teams in the WNBA. Since their move to Las Vegas, the Aces have seen an incredible rise in success. The Aces won their first WNBA Championship in 2022. They were led by A’ja Wilson, who was named Finals MVP. The team secured the title after a dominant season and playoffs run.

The Aces are equipped with tactics on both sides of the court. They have a fast-paced offense and tough defense. Under Becky Hammon’s guidance, the Aces have achieved remarkable success which includes setting a new standard in the team and trying to redefine the way the game is played. Notable players like A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young have been central to the team’s rise. Wilson earned MVP honors in 2020. The Aces are now seen as one of the top contenders for multiple championships in the future.

#3. Connecticut Sun (2003)

The Connecticut Sun was established in 2003 and has been a consistent force in the WNBA. They are known for their strong team-oriented play and defensive ability. While the Sun has yet to win a WNBA championship, they have made four Finals appearances (2004, 2005, 2019, 2023). Their most recent run was in 2023, where they were defeated by the New York Liberty.

The Sun has various standout players like Alyssa Thomas, Jonquel Jones, and DeWanna Bonner leading the way in recent years. Notably, Alyssa Thomas has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile and durable players in the league. Despite not securing a title win yet, the Sun has repeatedly been near the top of the standings, especially under coach Curt Miller, who helped the team reach its peak in the late 2010s and early 2020s. The Sun’s ability to rebuild and remain competitive is the reason they rank 3rd on the list of best teams in the WNBA.

#2. Minnesota Lynx (1999)

The Minnesota Lynx is one of the most successful franchises in WNBA history. It was established in 1999. The Lynx have won four WNBA championships (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017) establishing a dominant dynasty in the 2010s under head coach Cheryl Reeve. The team’s success has been powered by legendary players like Maya Moore, Seimone Augustus, Lindsay Whalen, and Rebekkah Brunson. They were key to their multiple championship runs.

A defining moment in the Lynx’s history came in 2011. This was when they won their first championship in a dominant way over the Atlanta Dream. The Lynx continued their dominance through the decade as their star player Maya Moore earned Finals MVP honors in 2013 and 2015. Despite facing a period of transition in recent years, the team remains a contender. Stars like Napheesa Collier are leading the charge for their fifth championship. The Lynx have been known for their strong defense, rebounding, and ability to perform in pressure moments. They are one of the most respected teams in the WNBA.

#1. New York Liberty (1997)

The New York Liberty is one of the founding franchises of the WNBA. It was established in 1997. Liberty is based in one of the largest and most influential markets in the world. they have been a cornerstone of the league’s development. While they have yet to win a championship, the team has consistently been a strong contender, making four Finals appearances (1997, 1999, 2002, 2021).

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The Liberty has seen many standout players throughout its history, including Rebecca Lobo, and Tina Charles. The most important of them all is Sabrina Ionescu, who has been the face of the franchise. Ionescu has become one of the league’s most dynamic players. She is known for her incredible court vision and scoring ability. In 2021, the Liberty returned to the playoffs with a fresh roster, and in 2023, they became one of the top contenders for a championship. They were led by a strong performance from Breanna Stewart, who was a crucial joining of the team. The Liberty’s rich history and growing roster make them one of the most exciting teams in the league. They are all set to put their hands on their first WNBA championship in 2025.

List of WNBA Teams in the World

Below is a list of all WNBA teams, including their rank, total games played, won, lost, and the year of establishment: