The Mystics might be better than projected. The Fever defense is better, period. Here's what we learned as the WNBA season opened.

Shana Stephenson, the New York Liberty's Chief Brand Officer, has built a WNBA brand like no other, with a sassy, iconic mascot (Ellie the Elephant, of course) and groundbreaking partnerships (like Fenty Beauty).

During a show-stopping halftime performance at the New York Liberty’s 2025 season opener, mascot Ellie the Elephant took center stage with a dazzling surprise—her very own 2024 WNBA Championship ring.

Fresh off winning a WNBA title, Colorado Buffaloes legend Jaylyn Sherrod is back with the New York Liberty for the 2025 season. After appearing in ten games last season, Sherrod played just one minute in the Liberty’s opening win over the Las Vegas Aces. But that’s also not a problem for the Birmingham, Alabama product.

Stewart scored 25 points in leading the Liberty to their season-opening victory. She has plenty to play for this season as Stewart and the Liberty look to repeat as WNBA champs.

Cloud stepped right into a starring role with the reigning champs, scoring 22 points and dishing out nine assists in a statement win over the Las Vegas Aces.

The New York Liberty will be looking to go back-to-back, but they'll need to answer multiple questions to run the gauntlet.

After a historic run to their first WNBA championship, the New York Liberty are ready to defend their title as the 2025 season gets underway. Led by Breanna Stewart, the Liberty de