Defense plays a crucial role in basketball success, even though offense often grabs more headlines. As the WNBA reaches the All-Star break, attention turns to the frontrunners for the Defensive Player of the Year Award, with Napheesa Collier standing out among the early contenders due to her continued exceptional performance.
Last season’s Defensive Player of the Year, Napheesa Collier, has maintained her elite defensive status for the Minnesota Lynx in 2025. She leads her team defensively, averaging 1.8 steals and 1.6 blocks per game, ranking fourth in the league in both categories. Despite concerns about voters possibly discounting her because of past accolades, Collier remains one of the WNBA’s top defensive bigs through consistent impact on the court.
Minnesota Lynx Star Alanna Smith’s Defensive Impact
Although Collier is outstanding, her teammate Alanna Smith may challenge for top defensive honors herself this season. Smith is posting impressive numbers, with 2.2 blocks and 1.1 steals per game, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best frontcourt players and winning those matchups. While Collier is Minnesota’s most skilled player overall, Smith excels in protecting the paint and securing stops, making her one of the league’s most formidable defenders this year. This season could mark broader recognition for Smith’s defensive contributions.
Gabby Williams Brings Versatility to Seattle Storm Defense
Gabby Williams stands out for her versatility on defense, capable of guarding both perimeter and frontcourt players. Leading the league with 2.4 steals per game, Williams combines speed and strength to disrupt opponents effectively. Her defensive win shares of 1.5 rank fourth in the WNBA, highlighting her key role in the Seattle Storm’s status as a top-four team. Williams’ defensive growth positions her as a serious candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year Award this season.
Other Defensive Candidates to Follow This Season
With the season only halfway complete, several other players remain in the mix for the Defensive Player of the Year Award. Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson consistently delivers elite defense and is likely to earn an All-Defensive Team spot. Rising stars such as Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky could push themselves into contention with continued improvement. The New York Liberty’s defensive strength, anchored by Breanna Stewart and Leonie Fiebich, also boosts the team’s championship aspirations and warrants close attention.
As the WNBA moves beyond the All-Star break, defensive performances will shape which players emerge as frontrunners for the award. Voters will weigh the season-long effort and impact of veteran standouts alongside promising newcomers aiming to make their mark.
“Collier is clearly the most skilled player on the Lynx, but when it comes to getting a stop and protecting the paint, Smith is in a league of her own.” —Author
“Thanks to Williams’ progression as a player and defender, the Storm are a top-four team in the league.” —Author
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What did Napheesa Collier say to Angel Reese?
A. Before the game on Monday against the Minnesota Lynx, their top scorer, Napheesa Collier, complimented Reese. She said, “Angel is significant for the future of the league.” Collier, who will be the 2025 WNBA All-Star captain, added, “She has a long career in front of her.”