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WNBA first basket predictions for Thursday include Shakira Austin, Tiffany Hayes [7/31/2025]
Our expert analysis on Thursday's WNBA first basket market.

Our WNBA first basket predictions for Thursday, July 31, 2025, have landed—with Shakira Austin of the Mystics the most likely player to score the first basket according to the latest Dimers Pro simulation data.
Thursday's first basket predictions pull from our full list of WNBA player projections, which highlight not only first basket probabilities, but also projected points, rebounds, assists and more for every player on today's basketball slate.
Who will score the first basket tonight? [July 31, 2025]
Thanks to simulating Thursday's WNBA game 10,000 times, Dimers has determined the list of players most likely to score the first basket.
Player (Team) | First Basket Probability |
---|---|
Shakira Austin (Mystics) | 14.5% |
Janelle Salaun (Valkyries) | 11.9% |
Tiffany Hayes (Valkyries) | 11.7% |
Brittney Sykes (Mystics) | 🔒 |
Kiki Iriafen (Mystics) | 🔒 |
Cecilia Zandalasini (Valkyries) | 🔒 |
Sonia Citron (Mystics) | 🔒 |
Veronica Burton (Valkyries) | 🔒 |
Temi Fagbenle (Valkyries) | 🔒 |
Jade Melbourne (Mystics) | 🔒 |
According to our data-driven analysis, the most likely WNBA player to score the first basket in Thursday's clash is Shakira Austin, with a probability of 14.5%.
Following Austin closely are Janelle Salaun at 11.9% and Tiffany Hayes at 11.7%.
Brittney Sykes and Kiki Iriafen are among those in the top 10, with the full list of first basket projections for Thursday available once you sign up to Dimers Pro.
Best WNBA first basket picks [7/31/2025]
Having simulated the outcome of today's WNBA slate thousands of times, our independent predictive analytics model has discovered the best WNBA first basket betting pick for Thursday.
Janelle Salaun first basket scorer
- Odds: +950
- Edge: 2.3%
- Probability: 11.9%
- Game: Valkyries vs. Mystics (7:30PM ET)
Our model has identified the best WNBA first basket bet for today's WNBA slate in the game between the Valkyries and Mystics. The bet is on Janelle Salaun (GSV) at odds of +950 with FanDuel Sportsbook, with an edge of 2.3% according to our analysis.
For today's full list of WNBA prop picks, join Dimers Pro. We give you the tools and information to succeed with hundreds of data-driven bets across thousands of games. Sign up now to join the community!
WNBA schedule for today [7/31/2025]
- Valkyries vs. Mystics (7:30PM ET, Thursday)
Conclusion
For July 31, 2025, our WNBA first basket predictions showcase star players including Shakira Austin, Janelle Salaun and Tiffany Hayes—all of whom are among the top projected chances to open the scoring in today’s games. But when it comes to +EV betting, it’s Janelle Salaun who emerges as the top pick, producing a calculated 2.3% edge at +950 odds.
These projections are the result of 10,000 simulations, giving you a reliable starting point for smarter prop betting. Always wager with care—help is available at 1-800-GAMBLER if you or someone close to you needs support.
For more insight, check out our WNBA player props and WNBA best bets. Stay in the loop with our up-to-the-minute WNBA betting trends, WNBA news, and current WNBA title odds.
This article was partially generated using automated data and AI tools, with all content reviewed and finalized by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and quality.
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