The 2023 WNBA season has commenced with an exciting opening night. The Washington Mystics dominated their first game against the New York Liberty, securing an unexpectedly comfortable victory. The Liberty seemed disjointed in their inaugural game, partially due to the Mystics’ exceptional defense. Simultaneously, the Connecticut Sun swiftly established a significant lead, successfully fending off a spirited comeback by the Indiana Fever.

In later matchups, the Chicago Sky capitalized on the Minnesota Lynx’s lackluster performance, effortlessly securing a double-digit triumph. The night culminated with Brittney Griner’s long-awaited return to the court after a hiatus of 579 days. Although she showcased an impressive performance, it fell short of carrying the Phoenix Mercury to victory as they succumbed to the Los Angeles Sparks.

Let’s delve into the highlights of this captivating opening night in the WNBA season.

Sparks 94 — Mercury 71: Final

Griner Makes a Triumphant Return

After a challenging year marred by legal issues abroad, Brittney Griner has finally made her long-awaited comeback. The star player, who missed the entire 2022 season due to a detainment in Russia on drug charges, returned home in December and wasted no time in expressing her desire to get back on the court this summer. In a significant move, Griner re-signed with the Mercury during the free agency period. And on Friday, she showcased her immense talent as she led her team against the Sparks.

Griner’s impact was immediate and undeniable. She started by setting up her teammates for the Mercury’s first basket, displaying her exceptional court vision. Shortly after, she sank an impressive mid-range jumper, adding to her own tally. In a commendable performance spanning 25 minutes, Griner concluded the game with an impressive stat line: 18 points, six rebounds, and four blocks.

Cooke Shines in Spectacular Debut

While Zia Cooke may not have garnered much pre-season hype as a rookie, her exceptional debut on Friday will undoubtedly change that perception. The agile point guard showcased her skills coming off the bench, delivering an outstanding performance. Cooke effortlessly scored 14 points, shooting an impressive 5-of-6 from the field. Her contributions were so vital that Chiney Ogwumike, a seasoned observer of the game, described her as the one who “saved the game.”

Sun 70 — Fever 61: Final

Introducing Boston’s Stellar Debut

Aliyah Boston, a highly anticipated addition to the league, graced the court for the first time in her Fever and WNBA debut. Coming off an exceptional college career at South Carolina, where she claimed the prestigious titles of 2022 Naismith Player of the Year and 2022-2023 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, Boston led the Gamecocks to a national championship.

In her inaugural professional game, Boston showcased her talent by sinking her first basket during the first quarter. Ultimately, she contributed 15 points and nine rebounds, impressively shooting 6-of-10 from the field. However, her passion got the best of her, leading to her fouling out.

Thomas: A Multifaceted Force

Unsurprisingly, Alyssa Thomas proved herself as an invaluable asset to the Sun. With the absence of Jonquel Jones, Thomas shoulders even more responsibilities, but she is more than capable of handling the added load. She exhibited her versatility by amassing 18 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, two steals, and two blocks.

Mystics 80 — Liberty 64: Final

Liberty’s New Superteam: Finding Their Rhythm

The Liberty’s highly anticipated superteam debut fell short of expectations. Struggling with their shooting, they managed a mere 64 points on a disappointing 23-of-67 from the field. The team also grappled with turnovers, committing 20 throughout the game. Even the renowned acquisitions of former MVPs Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones, who combined for just 17 points on a 5-of-16 shooting performance, couldn’t salvage the lackluster display. Additionally, Courtney Vandersloot, a key addition to the roster, had as many turnovers (four) as assists (six).

Elena Delle Donne Returns to Her Prime

Before the season commenced, Elena Delle Donne confidently assured reporters that she had fully recovered from her back issues. Her performance in this game solidified her claim. Though her numbers may not have been outstanding—13 points, four rebounds, five assists, and two steals—she outshone both Stewart and Jones, exhibiting shades of her former dominant self.

Mystics’ Imposing Defense Takes Center Stage

Boasting two All-Defensive First Team members from the previous season, Natasha Cloud and Ariel Atkins, the Mystics further fortified their defense by acquiring Brittney Sykes, who earned a spot on the All-Defensive Second Team. With the return of a healthy Delle Donne and the addition of Shakira Austin, the Mystics possess the makings of an indomitable defensive unit. This was evident as they shut down the Liberty, showcasing their defensive prowess on Friday.

Sky 77 — Lynx 66: Final

Copper takes charge

With the departure of five of the Sky’s top-six scorers from the previous season, Kahleah Copper has stepped up as the team’s leader. In her debut as the primary offensive option, Copper delivered an impressive performance, contributing 20 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals to guide the Sky to a victorious start to the season.

Lynx struggle with turnovers

The absence of a traditional point guard on the Lynx roster became evident in the first game of the season, as turnovers plagued the team. A staggering 20 turnovers resulted in 17 points for the Sky. Such frequent mishandling of the ball makes it nearly impossible to secure a victory.