Will WNBA free agency be more challenging than ever?

How much could rookie contracts shape the next era of WNBA free agency? In this clip, Sabreena Merchant and Chantel Jennings break down why veteran-heavy teams could feel a real cap crunch, while younger teams with players on rookie deals may have far more roster flexibility. They explain how cost-controlled talent can open the door for more creativity in free agency and why that matters for contenders across the league. The conversation also highlights Paige Bueckers’ value on a rookie contract and why teams like Dallas or Indiana could have a major advantage as front offices try to build around emerging stars. What do you think: will rookie deals become the biggest advantage in WNBA roster building? #WNBA #PaigeBueckers #DallasWings #IndianaFever #WomensBasketball #FreeAgency No Offseason is a part of The Athletic Podcast Network: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/ Follow and listen to the audio podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/no-offseason-the-athletic-womens-basketball-show/id1699815468 Get in touch! Leave a comment wherever you’re listening, or email us at NoOffseason@TheAthletic.com Show Links: -YouTube: @No-Offseason -Instagram: @tanooffseason [https://www.instagram.com/tanooffseason] -TikTok: @no_offseason [https://www.tiktok.com/@no_offseason] Credits: -Zena on BlueSky: @zenakeita -Sabreena on BlueSky: @sabreenajm -Chantel on BlueSky: @chanteljennings -Produced by Taneka Burrell -Executive Produced by Andrea B. Scott Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports Hub: https://sports.yahoo.com/womens-sports/?guccounter=1 Full Episodes Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5UWQzuMYdm7txmok7cpMB3YlgkwrT2E0 Shorts Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5UWQzuMYdm72uhBjsd24rsh5teZtgUpS