As the 2025 WNBA season winds down and a new champion waits to be crowned, one thing’s clear: this year’s been a thrill from start to finish. From the two pink buzz-cut studs (who call themselves the StudBudz) livestreaming an unfiltered look inside the locker room, to the sudden resurgence of “Pink Pony Club” as the song of the summer (courtesy of the Minnesota Lynx), to the slow-burn Pazzi confirmation via phone case — fans really got it all this season.
The basketball hasn’t disappointed either: Alyssa Thomas had a record-breaking nine triple-doubles in the regular season (the next best player has no more than four in their entire career), the Las Vegas Aces lost by the largest margin in league history only to follow it with a 16-game win streak to climb back to second, and the Indiana Fever, despite enough injuries to fill two benches, still fought their way into the semifinals.
All this to say, it’s playoff season, and the fashion has lived up to the big stage. So in case you’ve been glued to the highlight reels, here’s what you might’ve missed in the pre-game tunnel:
Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard, Atlanta Dream
The Dream duo Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard came ready for Game One, bootstraps and all, with coordinated cowboy-inspired outfits complete with boots and statement belts. Sure, they may have been dressed for a rodeo, but the Fever had other plans, knocking them out two to one in the first round. Still, pulling up in matching Corvette Stingrays and stepping out as cowboy twins? If I were the opponent, I’d be shaking in my boots.
Natisha Hiedeman, Minnesota Lynx
2025 was the year of the StudBudz. Natisha Hiedeman of the Minnesota Lynx and her fellow StudBud Courtney Williams have dominated headlines and snagged major media attention this year, and her style has leveled up with it: over-the-top sunglasses, sharp jackets, and edgy accessories are now her signature. (Also, peep the “I Play On My Period” pin. Iconic.)
A moment for the two-piece! Just days after debuting this quilted set, Aja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces was crowned MVP, the first and only player to win the award four times.
Aja can surely pull off an MVP style moment, but don’t be fooled: white tee A’ja is all business. When she shows up in that tee, she’s dropping at least 30 points on her way to the semifinals. She’s the GOAT, and we’re all just living in her world.
Kahleah Copper, Phoenix Mercury
Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury pulled up in a tailored Romeo Hunte look to make sure we all know: ties are back this fall, and we’re so here for it!
Natasha Cloud, New York Liberty
One of the few times you’ll catch Tash not smiling off the court. After joining the reigning champs as their starting point guard, Natasha Cloud of the New York Liberty had her sights set on another ring. But a gunning Phoenix Mercury squad ended those dreams in the semis. While it lasted, we got to enjoy the last few “Papi Crop” tunnel moments from Cloud 9.
Dana Evans, a new addition to the Las Vegas Aces’ squad, has been a glimmer off the bench this season and continues to light it up from three so far in the finals. Her fashion matches her play style perfectly: flirty, feminine, with a sparkle of luxury and color. The Aces are chasing their 3rd championship in four years, and Evans is the pop of color this lineup didn’t know it needed.
Breanna Stewart, New York Liberty
Miss Puma herself, Brianna Stewart from the New York Liberty, has been letting us all know she’s that girl this season, pairing high-end streetwear with team spirit. Stewie pulled up to the playoffs with the Puma x ASAP Rocky Tool Box Bag and matching Speedcats. I would have loved to see her throw some finals fits this year – especially after gifting her teammates Labubus and sunglasses for the playoffs.
Chelsea Gray of the Las Vegas Aces style evolution deserves its own highlight reel. As a veteran player, she’s seen tunnel fits go from nonexistent to gym clothes to fully curated stylist moments. Applause to Gray’s stylist Sydney Bordonaro – she wins Most Improved in my book.
DiJonai Carrington x Natisha Hiedeman Makeover
And finally, – not a tunnel moment, but arguably the most iconic fashion moment of the playoffs – DiJonai Carrington, known for her on and off-court glam, gave her teammate and StudBudz co-star Natisha Hiedeman a full stud-to-baddie makeover on their off day. I’ll let the photos speak for themselves on this one.
Beyond the fashion, it’s hard to ignore the biggest off-court storyline: a potential lockout for the 2026 season. At her exit interview, Napheesa Collier said what many around the league have been thinking but haven’t wanted to admit. As vice president of the players’ union and one of the WNBA’s most respected veterans, her words carry weight. Right now, players and league leadership are at a standstill over agreeing to a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the deal that defines players’ rights, everything from salaries to travel conditions. The league has never had more attention, money, or cultural relevance, and the players are calling for fair pay and treatment in a league they helped build.
The story’s still unfolding — the biggest stages and the highest stakes are yet to come. Catch the rest of the finals dual between the Phoenix Mercury on ESPN, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.
Words by Sophia Denison
Graphic by Owen Crosby