Ranking 2025's top women's sports moments: A'ja Wilson to Texas A&M
- - Ranking 2025's top women's sports moments: A'ja Wilson to Texas A&M
Cydney Henderson, USA TODAYDecember 29, 2025 at 3:04 AM
0
Athletes train all of their lives for a single moment.
From a buzzer-beating, game-winning shot, successful penalty kick to clinch a championship or single second shaved off a personal best time to set a record. All the years of practice, sweat and sacrifice come down to one defining moment that can make or break an athlete's dreams.
"Today was just an amazing day in the middle of some really tough months," Olympic alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin said after winning her milestone 100th World Cup race. "Iâm very thankful for this day."
The year 2025 was filled with unforgettable moments and feats that will live on in women's sports history. USA TODAY Sports compiled a list of the top 10:
Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray (12) celebrates with teammates after the Aces defeated the Phoenix Mercury, 89-86, at Michelob Ultra Arena.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/eTefrPAhrSaQs9rsOHxmXg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ef0cd18a54178180600e31cad56b0643 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray (12) celebrates with teammates after the Aces defeated the Phoenix Mercury, 89-86, at Michelob Ultra Arena.
">Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray (12) celebrates with teammates after the Aces defeated the Phoenix Mercury, 89-86, at Michelob Ultra Arena.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/eTefrPAhrSaQs9rsOHxmXg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ef0cd18a54178180600e31cad56b0643 class=caas-img>Game 1: Jackie Young #0 of the Las Vegas Aces battles for the ball with Alyssa Thomas #25 and Kahleah Copper #2 of the Phoenix Mercury.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/_DCBVZo_AO0FCvGmR6rW_A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d81f47c5cd838c237daff1aedf382a6f class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Jackie Young #0 of the Las Vegas Aces battles for the ball with Alyssa Thomas #25 and Kahleah Copper #2 of the Phoenix Mercury.
">Game 1: Jackie Young #0 of the Las Vegas Aces battles for the ball with Alyssa Thomas #25 and Kahleah Copper #2 of the Phoenix Mercury.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/_DCBVZo_AO0FCvGmR6rW_A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/d81f47c5cd838c237daff1aedf382a6f class=caas-img>Game 1: Chelsea Gray (12) and A'ja Wilson (22) of the Las Vegas Aces grab a rebound past DeWanna Bonner (14) and Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/jEnM5cftbA..Za5iqw5Z1A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/463ecdc7fe19ca9068740a56ae5d77d2 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Chelsea Gray (12) and A'ja Wilson (22) of the Las Vegas Aces grab a rebound past DeWanna Bonner (14) and Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury.
">Game 1: Chelsea Gray (12) and A'ja Wilson (22) of the Las Vegas Aces grab a rebound past DeWanna Bonner (14) and Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/jEnM5cftbA..Za5iqw5Z1A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/463ecdc7fe19ca9068740a56ae5d77d2 class=caas-img>Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Jackie Young of the Las Vegas Aces.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/27XbQulzZmD8gPqMQV1NXA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/da9d9d24d26e406387966b9870f19ba6 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Jackie Young of the Las Vegas Aces.
">Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Jackie Young of the Las Vegas Aces.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/27XbQulzZmD8gPqMQV1NXA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/da9d9d24d26e406387966b9870f19ba6 class=caas-img>Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jewell Loyd (24) looks to tip a loose ball away from Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33).
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4iDRboMlAQFDP0J.7AR2Pw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3618b5dcd8444c2e368edc0faf8c5063 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jewell Loyd (24) looks to tip a loose ball away from Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33).
">Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jewell Loyd (24) looks to tip a loose ball away from Phoenix Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb (33).
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4iDRboMlAQFDP0J.7AR2Pw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/3618b5dcd8444c2e368edc0faf8c5063 class=caas-img>Game 1: Las Vegas Aces forward NaLyssa Smith (3) shoots against Phoenix Mercury forward Natasha Mack (4).
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Ckz59oRPy7AilXyQ9czf.A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/acdf257fe9ca31bf84283e1a88105f37 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Las Vegas Aces forward NaLyssa Smith (3) shoots against Phoenix Mercury forward Natasha Mack (4).
">Game 1: Las Vegas Aces forward NaLyssa Smith (3) shoots against Phoenix Mercury forward Natasha Mack (4).
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Ckz59oRPy7AilXyQ9czf.A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/acdf257fe9ca31bf84283e1a88105f37 class=caas-img>Game 1: A'ja Wilson (22) of the Las Vegas Aces celebrates after making a basket against the Phoenix Mercury.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/5zRkg0CxZv4Nd7b.I1HUww--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9aa7bbbb9f0bb6bc3829cd3d4f40efc0 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: A'ja Wilson (22) of the Las Vegas Aces celebrates after making a basket against the Phoenix Mercury.
">Game 1: A'ja Wilson (22) of the Las Vegas Aces celebrates after making a basket against the Phoenix Mercury.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/5zRkg0CxZv4Nd7b.I1HUww--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/9aa7bbbb9f0bb6bc3829cd3d4f40efc0 class=caas-img>Game 1: Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Megan Gustafson (17) of the Las Vegas Aces.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/nG0qGGct1nQyREUobRp_1A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/194cc66a3720aafecad2677559a16f08 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Megan Gustafson (17) of the Las Vegas Aces.
">Game 1: Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Megan Gustafson (17) of the Las Vegas Aces.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/nG0qGGct1nQyREUobRp_1A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNzUz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/194cc66a3720aafecad2677559a16f08 class=caas-img>Game 1: Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury looks to shoot the ball against NaLyssa Smith (3) of the Las Vegas Aces.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hJfjH0tn8AWJdtD7QtReQg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/917fc12ef24d3bf553954b1f75f12423 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury looks to shoot the ball against NaLyssa Smith (3) of the Las Vegas Aces.
">Game 1: Satou Sabally (0) of the Phoenix Mercury looks to shoot the ball against NaLyssa Smith (3) of the Las Vegas Aces.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/hJfjH0tn8AWJdtD7QtReQg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/917fc12ef24d3bf553954b1f75f12423 class=caas-img>Game 1: NaLyssa Smith (3) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts during the third quarter.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/m3uXvaCZI8fzJV2PVRdr3g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODcz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ab69d5675c16ab7e845b8398fe655282 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: NaLyssa Smith (3) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts during the third quarter.
">Game 1: NaLyssa Smith (3) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts during the third quarter.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/m3uXvaCZI8fzJV2PVRdr3g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODcz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ab69d5675c16ab7e845b8398fe655282 class=caas-img>Game 1: Chelsea Gray (12) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts against the Phoenix Mercury during the fourth quarter.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7te7QIftLpxymY1gtaWZFA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/79bd81165caf64722e5c59d9f007016b class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Chelsea Gray (12) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts against the Phoenix Mercury during the fourth quarter.
">Game 1: Chelsea Gray (12) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts against the Phoenix Mercury during the fourth quarter.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7te7QIftLpxymY1gtaWZFA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/79bd81165caf64722e5c59d9f007016b class=caas-img>Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury drives to the basket against Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/pu5ZmhvmYc5DRm22RKjFsw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ba512471ea39bafad511c73faf641c6a class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury drives to the basket against Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces.
">Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury drives to the basket against Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/pu5ZmhvmYc5DRm22RKjFsw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/ba512471ea39bafad511c73faf641c6a class=caas-img>Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/6mLR7ohon2PEp4iwWjYKjw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1fd4cfc9c71c066a1c5357a4f00a8b9c class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces.
">Game 1: Alyssa Thomas (25) of the Phoenix Mercury shoots the ball against Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/6mLR7ohon2PEp4iwWjYKjw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1fd4cfc9c71c066a1c5357a4f00a8b9c class=caas-img>Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young (0) dribbles against Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2).
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tsQH8lpmntjRgVOprVX_zg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/feb10dd86fb534ebeb843c2e9e0d221e class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young (0) dribbles against Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2).
">Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jackie Young (0) dribbles against Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2).
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tsQH8lpmntjRgVOprVX_zg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/feb10dd86fb534ebeb843c2e9e0d221e class=caas-img>Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jewell Loyd (24) drives against Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2).
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/IszK91FUKjJbCAW_iOTmIQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/db61f0aedbbc9c00e0e1431b5499ff60 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jewell Loyd (24) drives against Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2).
">Game 1: Las Vegas Aces guard Jewell Loyd (24) drives against Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2).
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/IszK91FUKjJbCAW_iOTmIQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/db61f0aedbbc9c00e0e1431b5499ff60 class=caas-img>Game 1: Kahleah Copper (2) of the Phoenix Mercury celebrates after her 3-point basket.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tK29azwJaWfrXqZmGqQNIg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f6622f6fa1da41c12c852b4084366fde class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Kahleah Copper (2) of the Phoenix Mercury celebrates after her 3-point basket.
">Game 1: Kahleah Copper (2) of the Phoenix Mercury celebrates after her 3-point basket.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tK29azwJaWfrXqZmGqQNIg--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/f6622f6fa1da41c12c852b4084366fde class=caas-img>Game 1: Head coach Nate Tibbetts of the Phoenix Mercury looks on during the first quarter.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/2ZAm9Kn.GlIrGS6LHJa7hQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/5fc362dd8b00abc7338622579d7a1393 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Head coach Nate Tibbetts of the Phoenix Mercury looks on during the first quarter.
">Game 1: Head coach Nate Tibbetts of the Phoenix Mercury looks on during the first quarter.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/2ZAm9Kn.GlIrGS6LHJa7hQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/5fc362dd8b00abc7338622579d7a1393 class=caas-img>Game 1: Maddy Westbeld of the Chicago Sky (left) and Rae Burrell of the Los Angeles Sparks look on.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ga1xX9CrFNquWl7dUhqoYw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6fcdcdb62dbb3b19cfef08146b1bd36d class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Maddy Westbeld of the Chicago Sky (left) and Rae Burrell of the Los Angeles Sparks look on.
">Game 1: Maddy Westbeld of the Chicago Sky (left) and Rae Burrell of the Los Angeles Sparks look on.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ga1xX9CrFNquWl7dUhqoYw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/6fcdcdb62dbb3b19cfef08146b1bd36d class=caas-img>Game 1: Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts in front of Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0cnI5CV0HLisS0.pe4XRBA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2053c935199adc096ea8dc6d4f9bab31 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts in front of Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury.
">Game 1: Jackie Young (0) of the Las Vegas Aces reacts in front of Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0cnI5CV0HLisS0.pe4XRBA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/2053c935199adc096ea8dc6d4f9bab31 class=caas-img>Game 1: Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon looks on.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vo3NuKuoZVFxUoFdWW7Ldw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7ebd82cb24e246e92813d3530faad2d6 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon looks on.
">Game 1: Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon looks on.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vo3NuKuoZVFxUoFdWW7Ldw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/7ebd82cb24e246e92813d3530faad2d6 class=caas-img>Game 1: Dana Evans of the Las Vegas Aces, shoots the ball between Monique Akoa Makani and Natasha Mack of the Phoenix Mercury.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ahjo1qMBHUbGqKqLRYl_rw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e77e1dc6bf7a36fc4b15e2aa64547e2c class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Dana Evans of the Las Vegas Aces, shoots the ball between Monique Akoa Makani and Natasha Mack of the Phoenix Mercury.
">Game 1: Dana Evans of the Las Vegas Aces, shoots the ball between Monique Akoa Makani and Natasha Mack of the Phoenix Mercury.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ahjo1qMBHUbGqKqLRYl_rw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04Mjg-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/e77e1dc6bf7a36fc4b15e2aa64547e2c class=caas-img>Game 1: A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces drives to the basket against Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1m7cjmJl0LP4CGl0VHNUNQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MTE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/dd571107f81b1db8ecac1f61c22f5224 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces drives to the basket against Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury.
">Game 1: A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces drives to the basket against Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1m7cjmJl0LP4CGl0VHNUNQ--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MTE-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/dd571107f81b1db8ecac1f61c22f5224 class=caas-img>Game 1: Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury grabs a rebound against the Las Vegas Aces.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vgv5GWmz1_035adOmg7lkw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1a19a808fb2804f9baaba52203523417 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury grabs a rebound against the Las Vegas Aces.
">Game 1: Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury grabs a rebound against the Las Vegas Aces.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vgv5GWmz1_035adOmg7lkw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/1a19a808fb2804f9baaba52203523417 class=caas-img>Game 1: Chelsea Gray of the Las Vegas Aces shoots the ball against Monique Akoa Makani of the Phoenix Mercury.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zm0uI2ToGNgNtXsnNyfJoA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8e614da244e4ff64d15c05787e1b5fb9 class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: Chelsea Gray of the Las Vegas Aces shoots the ball against Monique Akoa Makani of the Phoenix Mercury.
">Game 1: Chelsea Gray of the Las Vegas Aces shoots the ball against Monique Akoa Makani of the Phoenix Mercury.
" src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/zm0uI2ToGNgNtXsnNyfJoA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xODYz/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/8e614da244e4ff64d15c05787e1b5fb9 class=caas-img>Game 1: A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces grabs a rebound against Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury.
" data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/41iLumODVwmrLXU2cXNzRw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xNjc5/https://media.zenfs.com/en/usa_today_slideshows_242/79a1e6b255e4b1187f1760d0957d529e class=caas-img data-headline="The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA Finals" data-caption="
Game 1: A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces grabs a rebound against Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury.
">Game 1: A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces grabs a rebound against Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury.
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1 / 30The best photos as Aces, Mercury meet in 2025 WNBA FinalsGame 2: The Las Vegas Aces' Jewell Loyd (24) and A'ja Wilson (22) celebrate after scoring against the Phoenix Mercury.1. Aâja Wilson's WNBA Finals game winner
The Phoenix Mercury were on the verge of another double-digit comeback in Game 3 of the WNBA Finals. Then Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson did what Wilson does best.
The Aces led by as many as 17 points in the fourth quarter, but the Mercury tied it up at 88 with 5 seconds left. The game looked like it was headed to overtime. That was before Wilson hit a game-winning turnaround jumper over Phoenix's Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner with 0.9 remaining to reclaim the lead.
"I just needed a bucket to go in," said Wilson, who finished a game-high 34 points and 14 rebounds in the 90-88 win. "I didnât really see who was in front of me. I didnât care. This is the Finals, youâve got to make shots."
Wilson's shot stopped any momentum for Phoenix in the championship series. The Aces took a commanding 3-0 lead and went on to sweep the Mercury in four games to claim their third title in five years.
THAT'S OUR M'VP RIGHT THERE đŁïž@_ajawilson22 // #RaiseTheStakes pic.twitter.com/JW7lmxcUcu
â Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) October 9, 2025
2. Paige Bueckers, UConn win national title
Bueckers finished her UConn career by helping win the program's 12th national title with a dominant 82-59 victory over South Carolina. Bueckers, Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong combined to outscore the entire South Carolina roster (65-59). Bueckers finished with 17 points, bringing her to 477 career points in the NCAA tournament, third most all-time. Buckers exited the game with 1:32 left and cried in head coach Geno Auriemma's arms on the sideline.
It was a storybook ending for Bueckers' injury-plagued collegiate career. Following a breakout freshmen campaign where she was named AP Player of the Year and Naismith College Player of the Year, she was limited to 17 games her sophomore year after having surgery to repair a tibial plateau fracture and meniscus tear in December 2021. She missed the 2022-23 season after tearing the ACL tear in her left knee in August 2022 during a pickup game ahead of her junior year.
PAIGE & GENO HUG AFTER CHECKING OUT FOR HER LAST TIME đ„čâ€ïž pic.twitter.com/uclT1k43R9
â Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 6, 2025
3. Mikaela Shiffrin wins 100th World Cup
Mikaela Shiffrin became the first alpine skier to win 100 World Cup races in February, less than three months after a crash in her first attempt at the milestone left her with a puncture wound in her abdomen and severe muscle trauma. Shriffin suffered the crash during the second run of a giant slalom race on Nov. 30, 2024, in Killington, Vermont. She was in the lead when she lost an edge, hitting one gate at full speed and somersaulting into another before coming to rest against the safety netting.
In her sixth race back from injury, however, Shiffrin crossed the finish line of the slalom in Sestriere, Italy, with the fastest time. She fell to the snow, overwhelmed by the moment.
"It certainly feels like Iâve been fighting a lot lately," Shiffrin said. "Itâs been hard to find the right momentum and the right flow and to work through the injury and come back and compete with these women who are skiing so strong and so fast. I have wondered in the last weeks so many times whether it is the right thing to come back." â Nancy Armour
THAT'S đŻ@MikaelaShiffrin is the first alpine skier ever to reach 100 World Cup wins!#MIK100 pic.twitter.com/GwSwNKxAnZ
â Team USA (@TeamUSA) February 23, 2025
4. Marta's equalizer in 2025 Copa América Femenina final
Marta added to her legend in Brazil's 5-4 penalty shootout win over Colombia in the Copa América Femenina final on Aug. 2.
Colombia's Linda Caicedo opened scoring in the 25th minute, but Brazil's Angelina converted a penalty kick in the 45th minute to tie it at halftime. Colombia took the lead again on an own goal from Brazil defender Tarciane in the 69th minute, but Brazil evened it up with Amanda Gutierres' goal in the 80th. Colombia took the lead for the third time with Mayra RamĂrez's goal in the 88th minute.
Then, came Marta. The 39-year-old Brazilian came off the bench in the 82nd minute and instantly made an impact. She scored an equalizer in the sixth minute of stoppage time and scored again in the 105th minute of extra time to give Brazil its first lead. Colombia's Leicy Santos scored in the 115th minute to even it up and send the match to a penalty shootout. Brazil keeper Lorena saved two penalty kicks to claim Brazil's fifth Copa América Femenina title in a row and ninth overall.
5. WNBA player's âPay Us What You Owe Usâ shirts
With all eyes on the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis, the biggest names in the league made a bold statement in front of an announced crowd of nearly 17,000 fans by wearing black pregame T-shirts that read, "Pay Us What You Owe Us." The message was clear as the players fight for better pay and benefits amid ongoing CBA negotiations. The current CBA was due to expire on Oct. 31, but was extended Jan. 9, 2026.
âThatâs something we wanted to make well known. In the bubble we always knew how to make a stand with some T-shirts, so we did that today," WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike said in July after the All-Star Game. "We look forward to negotiating our fair share and our value.â
Ogwumike is referring to WNBA players wearing âVote Warnockâ T-shirts ahead of a game in August 2020 in support of Rev. Raphael Warnock for U.S. Senate in Georgia. Warnock went on to defeat incumbent Republican Kelly Loeffler, who co-owned the Atlanta Dream before selling her stake in the team in February 2021 following her controversial comments on the Black Lives Matter movement. Warnock credited the players support and activism with boosting his 2020 Senate runoff victory.
Caitlin Clark wears a shirt saying "Pay us what you owe us" before the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game.6. Napheesa Collier's explosive news conference
Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier openly criticized WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert's "tone-deaf and dismissive" leadership, showcasing how far apart the players and league remained on reaching a new collective bargaining agreement.
"We have the best players in the world, we have the best fans in the world, but right now we have the worst leadership in the world," Collier said in her end of season media availability following the Lynx's 86-81 Game 4 semifinal loss to the Phoenix Mercury in September.
In her statement, Collier recalled a specific conversation she had with Engelbert about compensating young stars in February during the inaugural season of Unrivaled. "Her response was, 'Caitlin (Clark) should be grateful to make $16 million off the court, because without the platform that the WNBA gives her, she wouldn't make anything. ... In that same conversation she told me players should be, 'On their knees thanking their lucky stars for the media rights deal that I got them.' That's mentality driving our league from the top. ... The league believes it succeeds despite its players, not because of them."
Napheesa Collierâs full statement today, where she challenged Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and the WNBA with directness and stunning detail we rarely hear from active players. Worth listening to every word. pic.twitter.com/IRTvTc52EA
â Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) September 30, 2025
Engelbert said she was "disheartened" by Collier's characterization of their conversation in a statement released on social media. During her annual news conference ahead of the WNBA Finals, Engelbert denied making a comment about Clark and said there's "a lot of inaccuracy about what I said or what I didn't say."
7. Lindsay Vonn wins first World Cup race since 2018
Less than a year after returning to the World Cup circuit following a nearly six-year retirement and a partial knee replacement, Vonn won the downhill in St. Moritz on Dec. 12 to top the podium for the first time since 2018. She won in emphatic fashion by a 0.98 second margin to claim her 83rd World Cup win.
"It almost doesnât feel real," said Vonn, who was overcome with emotion as she listened to the national anthem. "It couldnât go any better than this. Itâs amazing. Iâm so happy."
Vonn, 41, made the podium in four of her first five races this season with a bronze in the downhill in St. Moritz on Dec. 13, plus bronzes in the downhill and super-G in Val d'Isere, France, the following weekend. As a result, Vonn met the results-based criteria and officially qualified for the Milano Cortina Olympics, her fifth Games.
Lindsey Vonn retired from skiing for five years, got titanium implants in her knee, and turned 41 two months ago.Today, she won her first World Cup downhill in seven years and first since her surgery.pic.twitter.com/X8xGQwibN2
â Front Office Sports (@FOS) December 12, 2025
8. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone wins 400m gold
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone made history by winning gold in the womenâs 400 with a championship record time of 47.78 at the 2025 World Track and Field Championships in Tokyo, Japan, on Sept. 18. It was the second fastest time ever in the event. Sheâs the first person to win world championship gold medals in the womenâs 400 and womenâs 400-meter hurdles.
It was the second time McLaughlin-Levrone made history at this yearâs world championships. During the semifinals, McLaughlin-Levrone ran a 48.29 to break Sanya Richards-Rossâ 19-year-old American record (48.70) in the 400, clocking in at 48.29 before topping her own American record.
McLaughlin-Levrone is the world record holder, two-time Olympic gold medalist and 2022 world champion in the 400 hurdles. The U.S. sprinter can add world champion in the 400 to her rĂ©sumĂ© now that she accomplished history by owning world championship gold in both one-lap events. â Tyler Dragon
9. U.S. womenâs hockey sweeps Canada in Rivalry series
The U.S. womenâs national hockey defeated Canada in four consecutive games to sweep the 2025 Rivalry Series, something neither team has done in the tournamentâs six-year history. The Americans outscored the Canadians 24-7 across four games, including a 10-4 win in Edmonton in Game 3, the most goals Canada has allowed in international play. The U.S. women had 13 different players score. Hilary Knight and Abbey Murphy lead all scorers with five goals, while Taylor Heise had eight assists.
The historic win gives the Americans some momentum heading into the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. The U.S. and Canadian women have faced off in six of the seven Olympic gold medal matches, with Canada walking away with four of those golds and another gold vs. Sweden.
âThis definitely gives us confidence,â said U.S. defender Laila Edwards, who scored on Saturday night. âBut I wouldnât mistake it with satisfaction. We know nothing is going to be easy come February.â
Laila Edwards with some sneaky moves đ§#RivalrySeries, presented by @Discover. pic.twitter.com/mS8mTdQ4Mu
â USA Hockey (@usahockey) December 14, 2025
10. Texas A&M upsets Nebraska volleyball
Nebraska volleyball earned the No. 1 overall seed in the 2025 NCAA Tournament following a dominant regular season where the Huskers went undefeated and losing seven sets. Nebraska's winning streak and title pursuit fell short after No. 3 Texas A&M upset the Huskers in a thrilling five-set Elite Eight match to punch their ticket to the Final Four for the first time in program history.
Texas A&M dominated at the net and outblocked Nebraska 30-16. Kyndal Stowers has 25 kills and 16 digs, Logan Lednicky had 24 kills and Emily Hellmuth had 13 kills. Ifenna Cos-okpalla had three solo blocks and five block assists. It was Nebraska's first home loss since Nov. 26, 2022.
Nebraska was the first of three No. 1 seeds the Aggies dispatched en route to the program's first national championship. Texas A&M swept No. 1 Pitt in the semifinals and No. 1 Kentucky in the title match.
TEXAS A&M TAKES DOWN NEBRASKA TO ADVANCE TO KANSAS CITY âŒïž#NCAAWVB x đ„ ABC / @AggieVolleyball pic.twitter.com/tWtNz9aXNb
â NCAA Women's Volleyball (@NCAAVolleyball) December 14, 2025
Contributing: Meghan Hall, Nancy Armour, Heather Burns, Tyler Dragon
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Top 10 women's sports moments of 2025: A'ja Wilson's game-winner, more
Source: âAOL Sportsâ
