The small forward spot in the WNBA is full of exciting talent. These players do a little bit of everything — they can score in many ways, play tough defense, and help run the offense. They’re some of the most athletic and skilled players on the court. From established stars to rising names, small forwards are changing the game with their all-around play.
Ranking them isn’t easy since each one brings something different to their team. But here are the top 10 WNBA small forwards expected to shine in the 2025 season.
WNBA Season: Top 10 Small Forwards for 2025
10) Sophie Cunningham (Indiana Fever)
Last season, Sophie Cunningham averaged 7.7 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, shooting 42.7% from three for Phoenix. Known for her sharpshooting and gritty defense, she’s a fan favorite for her hustle. A 2019 second-round pick, she’s played six seasons, earning a reputation as a reliable role player. Now with Indiana, her floor-spacing and energy boost the Fever’s championship chase.
9) Kayla Thornton (Golden State Valkyries)
Kayla Thornton posted 6.4 points and 2.6 rebounds last season with New York, shooting 41.5% from the field. A veteran leader, she’s valued for her defense and basketball IQ. Since entering the WNBA in 2015, she’s played for three teams, contributing to the Liberty’s 2023 Finals run. With Golden State, her experience and toughness strengthen the expansion team’s wing rotation.
8) Lexie Hull (Indiana Fever)
Lexie Hull averaged 3.8 points and 2.1 rebounds last season, playing limited minutes for Indiana. Her 44.4% three-point shooting showed promise. A 2022 first-round pick, she’s developing into a defensive specialist with upside as a shooter. Still early in her career, Hull’s athleticism and work ethic make her a valuable depth piece for the Fever’s playoff push.
7) Jordan Horston (Seattle Storm)
Jordan Horston recorded 4.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists last season, showing growth before an ACL injury cut her year short. A 2023 first-round pick, she’s a versatile defender with potential to shine. Her athleticism and rebounding stand out. Despite the injury setback, Horston’s upside makes her a key part of Seattle’s future.
6) Rickea Jackson (LA Sparks)
Rickea Jackson, a 2024 All-Rookie selection, averaged 13.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, shooting 45.4% from the field. Her smooth scoring and mid-range game impressed. As the No. 4 pick in 2024, she’s already a cornerstone for LA. With veterans like Kelsey Plum now alongside her, Jackson’s poised for a breakout sophomore season.
5) Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (New York Liberty)
Betnijah Laney-Hamilton averaged 12.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists last season, shooting 44.8% from the field. A two-time All-Defensive selection, she’s a lockdown defender and clutch scorer. Since 2015, she’s evolved into a Liberty star, helping them reach the 2023 Finals. Knee surgery sidelined her in 2025, but her impact remains vital.
4) DeWanna Bonner (Indiana Fever)
DeWanna Bonner, a six-time All-Star, averaged 16.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists last season with Connecticut, shooting 43.1% from the field. A three-time champion (2009, 2010, 2014), she’s a scoring machine with over 6,000 career points. Now with Indiana, her veteran leadership and clutch shooting elevate the Fever’s title hopes.
3) Bridget Carleton (Minnesota Lynx)
Bridget Carleton averaged 8.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.8 assists last season, shooting 43.3% from three. A 2019 second-round pick, she’s become a sharpshooting threat and defensive anchor for Minnesota. Her role in the Lynx’s 2024 Commissioner’s Cup win highlights her growth. Carleton’s consistency makes her a key piece for a title contender.
2) Rhyne Howard (Atlanta Dream)
Rhyne Howard, a two-time All-Star, averaged 18.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.5 assists last season, shooting 37.2% from three. The 2022 No. 1 pick, she’s a scoring dynamo with elite range. Her 30-point games in 2024 showed her star power. Howard’s leadership drives Atlanta’s playoff hopes as she continues to rise.
1) Kahleah Copper (Phoenix Mercury)
Kahleah Copper, the 2021 Finals MVP, averaged 21.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists last season, shooting 46.8% from the field. A four-time All-Star, she led Chicago to the 2021 title and earned All-WNBA honors. Now with Phoenix, her explosive scoring and defensive tenacity make her the league’s top small forward.
