2026 WNBA Season Preview
You might have noticed the Women’s National Basketball Association, known as the WNBA, getting more attention in the UK. Now entering its 30th season, the league brings together top talent from the United States and beyond.
If you’re new to women’s basketball, the WNBA runs through summer and early autumn, with a clear structure that’s easy to follow once you know the basics. Drafts, trades and coaching moves often reshape teams from one year to the next, which is why a fresh season can feel so different.
In 2026, the focus falls on standout recruits taking the step up, tactical tweaks from coaches, and rivalries that feel a little sharper after last year’s results. This preview highlights what to expect, the teams likely to contend, and the players set to influence the season.
When Does The WNBA Season Start?
The 30th WNBA season began on May 8th, with the introduction of two new teams. Expanding from 13 to 15 teams, the WNBA added the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo to the league. Across the United States, each of the 15 teams plays home and away through the summer and into early autumn.
For UK fans, the time difference can make some live games a late watch, but highlights and condensed replays are widely available the next day. That makes it simple to stay on top of the storylines without needing to catch every tip-off.
The regular season runs for around four months, finishing in September. The play-offs then bring the top teams together for a series of rounds that lead to the finals and, eventually, the championship. With that in mind, it helps to know who set the standard last year.
Who Won The WNBA Championship 2025?
The Las Vegas Aces lifted the 2025 championship after sweeping the Phoenix Mercury 4-0. The 2025 WNBA Championship marked the Aces’ third title, regaining the honour after losing out in the 2024 playoffs.
Their success came from well-organised defence, efficient scoring in key stretches, and a core group that understands big-game pressure. It capped a season where they maintained a high level from opening night to the final buzzer.
The finals drew strong interest and featured tightly contested matchups. The Aces navigated a difficult play-off path by controlling tempo and limiting opponents’ second-chance points.
What Were The Key Offseason Changes?
Between seasons, clubs adjust their approach to improve results, and the 2026 build-up was no different. Player movement featured heavily, with out-of-contract signings changing the mix of experience across the league. Some teams prioritised proven veterans to stabilise rotations, while others leaned into youth to add pace and perimeter shooting.
The Seattle Storm, New York Liberty and Dallas Wings all opted for head coaching changes, with Sonia Raman, Chris DeMarco and Jose Fernandez being appointed respectively.
The offseason also saw a number of player changes, as the most notable trade saw Angel Reese traded from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for two first-round picks.
Britney Griner left the Atlanta Dream as a free agent to sign with the Connecticut Sun on a one-year deal, while Skylar Diggins left the Seattle Storm to sign a two-year deal with the Chicago Sky.
The draft brought an influx of new professionals, several of whom impressed in pre-season. The Dallas Wings held the first overall pick in the draft and opted to draft Shooting Guard Azzi Fudd.
The Minnesota Lynx held the second pick and drafted Point Guard Olivia Myles, while the Seattle Storm drafted Center Awa Fam with the third pick of the WNBA draft.
Who Are The Favourites For The WNBA Championship?
A few contenders stand out based on recent form and how their rosters now fit together.
The Las Vegas Aces remain central to the discussion as they will look to retain their title. A settled core which includes MVP A’ja Wilson, strong interior defence, and reliable scoring from their starters make them tough to break down over a series.
The New York Liberty look well balanced and could be a potential contender for the 2026 WNBA Championship. They have high-end shot creation alongside size on the glass, which helps them control possessions and punish mismatches in half-court sets.
Indiana Fever are being mentioned as a possible disruptor, lead by one of the MVP favourites Caitlin Clark. Smart recruitment and an energetic rookie group could lift their two-way consistency, especially if their perimeter shooting holds up on the road.
Who Are The Key Players To Watch?
The 2025 MVP A’ja Wilson anchors the Las Vegas Aces with elite two-way impact. She protects the paint, draws contact, and scores efficiently from mid-range and inside, often swinging momentum when tight games tilt either way.
Breanna Stewart remains the heartbeat of the New York Liberty. Her ability to stretch the floor, rebound in traffic, and create for team-mates makes the Liberty’s offence difficult to predict and hard to contain.
Caitlin Clark steps into her third professional season with the Indiana Fever under a bright spotlight. Known for deep shooting range and quick reads, her adjustment to defensive pressure and physicality at this level will be a running theme.
Reiging Rookie of the Year, Paige Bueckers drives the Dallas Wings with relentless playmaking, which makes her one of the favourites for the MVP. She turns defensive stops into fast-break chances and controls pace, which suits the Sun’s preference for disciplined, high-efficiency possessions.
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