

Before the 2026 WNBA season, bookmakers refused to count out the perennially contending Minnesota Lynx despite a significant injury to superstar Napheesa Collier that will keep her out for at least the first month of the season.
Turns out that deference was justified, as the Lynx -- powered by odds-on Rookie of the Year favorite Olivia Miles (-185) -- are atop the WNBA standings and are third on the championship odds board at +500 after beginning the season with a fifth-best +800.
The Eastern Conference-leading Atlanta Dream also continue to shorten their championship odds, making it to +550 from +650 in the preseason. It makes for a crowded top five with the New York Liberty (+275) and Las Vegas Aces (+380) leading, and the Indiana Fever rounding out the group at +650.
Just outside the contenders' crew, the Dallas Wings and Golden State Valkyries continue to prove their mettle, both sitting at 15-1 for the title after entering the campaign at 30-1 and 45-1, respectively. The Los Angeles Sparks (35-1) and Phoenix Mercury (45-1), on the other hand, continue to slide.
More: Fantasy women's basketball | WNBA Draft grades | Free agent moves