The WNBA season is heating up, and tonight’s matchups offer intriguing betting opportunities on DraftKings Sportsbook. Here are the top picks for the games on May 21, 2025.
Here is the full WNBA schedule for Wednesday, May 21 (all times Eastern):
- Wings at Lynx, 8 p.m.
- Mystics at Valkyries, 10 p.m.
- Sparks at Mercury, 10 p.m.
Wings +11.5 (-112)
The Minnesota Lynx (2-0) have been firing on all cylinders to open their season, including a convincing 99-84 win over the Dallas Wings (0-2) on Friday. But despite Minnesota’s strong start, the 11.5-point spread seems a bit too large, especially given the Wings’ talent and potential.
Dallas’ star guard, Arike Ogunbowale, has struggled early, averaging just 12.0 points on 23.1% shooting, including an eight-point performance against Seattle. However, Ogunbowale averaged 22.2 points per game last season, so a breakout is inevitable. The addition of Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, should also give the Wings an added scoring punch as the season progresses.
Minnesota’s defense will be tested, particularly against Ogunbowale and the Wings’ backcourt, which, when firing on all cylinders, can keep this game closer than expected. While the Lynx are the favorites, the +11.5 spread is favorable for Dallas, especially if Ogunbowale finds her rhythm and Bueckers contributes more in her second game. The Wings’ ability to stay competitive, even in losses, makes this spread appealing.
Mystics -5 (-102)
The Washington Mystics have been one of the most impressive teams early on, sitting at 2-0 after solid wins over the Atlanta Dream (94-90) and the Connecticut Sun (90-85). Their combination of seasoned veterans and emerging rookies has given them a well-rounded offensive and defensive unit.
Brittney Sykes has been phenomenal, leading Washington’s offense with back-to-back 22- and 27-point performances. Washington has looked like a top contender, and this early success is largely attributed to the contributions from its draft picks. Kiki Iriafen, a former Stanford star, made an immediate impact with a 17-point, 14-rebound performance against Connecticut, while Sonia Citron, selected in the 2025 Draft, has also delivered solid performances.
On the other hand, the Golden State Valkyries (0-1) have a lot of work to do after a tough 84-67 loss to the Los Angeles Sparks in their season opener. While Janelle Salaun is a promising addition to the team, it’s clear the Valkyries are still finding their identity, and their inexperience showed in the loss to the Sparks. Expect Washington’s defense to capitalize on Golden State’s youth, especially with Sykes and her teammates pressing the Valkyries on both ends of the floor.
With Washington’s talent and cohesion, it should cover the -5 spread and continue its early dominance against a team still finding its footing.
Sparks +5.5 (-115)
The Los Angeles Sparks (1-1) are looking to bounce back after a tough 89-75 loss to the Minnesota Lynx on Sunday. Despite their struggles, the Sparks have the talent to challenge Phoenix in this matchup. Kelsey Plum has been a standout with 27.5 points per game, and Dearica Hamby has contributed 17 points and 10 rebounds per outing.
Phoenix (1-0) had an impressive season opener, defeating the Seattle Storm 81-59. Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas combined for 47 points, with Sabally making her debut by scoring a franchise-record 27 points. However, Phoenix has its challenges. Kahleah Copper, its leading scorer last season, is out for four-to-six weeks after knee surgery, and the team will have to adjust without her.
The Sparks are built to capitalize on Phoenix’s lack of depth and injury issues. Despite losing to Minnesota, Los Angeles managed to stay competitive for most of the game, and with Plum’s leadership, it can make it a close game. Phoenix will be a formidable opponent, but the +5.5 spread offers value for the Sparks, who can stay within range.
Arike Ogunbowale Over 16.5 Points (-120)
Arike Ogunbowale has faced shooting struggles to start the 2025 season, averaging just 12.0 points per game with a rough 23.1% from the field and 9.1% from three. Her most recent performance, where she scored eight points against the Seattle Storm, exemplifies her early challenges. However, Ogunbowale’s established scoring ability suggests that a breakout performance is imminent.
Last season, Ogunbowale averaged a career-high 22.2 points per game; throughout her seven-year WNBA career, she averaged 20.5 points per game. It’s just a matter of time before she finds her rhythm. While the adjustment to playing alongside Paige Bueckers and new teammates has caused some early growing pains, Ogunbowale has consistently been one of the league’s top scorers and will be critical for the Wings’ offense.
Considering her past performance and history of bouncing back from slow starts, Ogunbowale is poised for a solid game. Her Over 16.5 points is a strong bet, especially as she looks to regain her offensive consistency against the Minnesota Lynx.
