Gabby Williams has emerged as a leading candidate for the 2025 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award as the season progresses, especially with Napheesa Collier sidelined by injury. The Minnesota Lynx forward’s defensive prowess has become a key focus amid a competitive race that is shaping up with shifting dynamics.
Shifts in Defensive Rankings Following Recent Performances
The recent injury to Napheesa Collier has affected the defensive race, with the Lynx star slipping slightly in the standings. Collier’s absence has opened opportunities for other players to gain ground. Meanwhile, another defensive standout, Leonie Fiebich, faced challenges during her last two games against Connecticut Sun and Dallas Wings, showing difficulties in stepping up for the New York Liberty.
In the high-profile Sunday game against Minnesota, Fiebich struggled to contain a Lynx team operating without Collier, although she maintained her position among the top five defensive players this season.
Gabby Williams’ Consistent Defensive Impact for Seattle Storm
Gabby Williams has steadily increased her influence since cracking the top five on the Defensive Player of the Year list. Even as the Seattle Storm as a team have encountered challenges this season, Williams’ defense has been a bright spot. The Storm’s defensive rating stands at an impressive 96.8 when Williams is on the court, but it rises to 101.9 without her presence, underscoring her impact.
Williams leads the league with an average of 2.5 steals per game, frequently disrupting opposing offenses and posing a continuous threat on defense.
Impact of Napheesa Collier’s Absence on Minnesota Lynx and Defensive Standings
Collier’s quest to retain her Defensive Player of the Year title has been hindered by an ankle injury sustained against the Las Vegas Aces. Despite this setback, the Lynx have performed remarkably well defensively during her absence, winning all three games since the injury. Coach Cheryl Reeve’s squad has demonstrated resilience, maintaining a solid defensive front without their key defender.
A’ja Wilson’s Rise as a Defensive Force for Las Vegas Aces
With the Las Vegas Aces enjoying a 6-1 streak heading into their anticipated clash with the New York Liberty, A’ja Wilson has firmly established herself as a defensive cornerstone. Wilson, who has twice earned the Defensive Player of the Year award, is now ranked second in the current race.
The two-time winner is averaging 2.1 blocks per game, which ranks second in the league, and 1.6 steals per game, placing her eighth. Wilson’s sustained defensive excellence positions her strongly for a possible third Defensive Player of the Year title.
Kayla McBride’s Consistency and Defensive Contributions
Among players with a minimum of 20 games played, Kayla McBride leads in defensive win shares, highlighting her significant role in this season’s defensive contests. Since Collier’s injury, McBride has proven herself to be a tough and reliable perimeter defender, often tasked with guarding the opposing teams’ top outside threats during victories against Seattle Storm, Washington Mystics, and New York Liberty.
McBride currently holds the lead in the Defensive Player of the Year race, with A’ja Wilson closely pressing to surpass her.
Looking Ahead: What This Defensive Race Means for the WNBA
The 2025 Defensive Player of the Year competition remains tightly contested, with Gabby Williams’ steady defensive play placing her among the top contenders alongside established stars like A’ja Wilson and Kayla McBride. Napheesa Collier’s injury has added uncertainty to the race, but it has also spotlighted the depth of defensive talent across the league. As the season continues, the battle to earn the top defensive honor will likely intensify, influencing team performances and playoff prospects.