Tip-Off 2026

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Best Of Tip-Off Weekend

The 30th season of the WNBA tipped off with a bang, with rookies flying out of the gate with highlight performances, underdog squads testing the limits of contenders, and up-and-coming units finding their groove early on in the year. 
We’re only a few games into the season, so I won&#8217;t make any statements about how teams looked during Tip-Off weekend that sound too grandiose. But there were at least five definitive things to take away from the contests that kicked off the league’s 30th year. 
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<h2>2026 Rookie Class Shines</h2>
<div id="attachment_260410" style="width: 910px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-260410" class="wp-image-260410" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2274822522-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2274822522-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2274822522-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2274822522-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2274822522-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2274822522-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2274822522-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />Jovana Nogic #29 of the Phoenix Mercury</div>
Much of this year’s draft class has already taken a swing at their first taste of WNBA, and there were some major standouts from the first weekend of action. Olivia Miles’ 21-point, eight-assist, two-block, two-steal, and three-rebound debut for the Minnesota Lynx was nearly enough to get them a win over the Atlanta Dream on opening weekend, but regardless of the outcome, it was unbelievably impressive. 
Flau’jae Johnson was on fire for the Seattle Storm in their one win from opening weekend, getting the Connecticut Sun into foul trouble and driving with purpose to the basket despite the danger of Brittney Griner lurking at the rim. She was also not afraid to <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/storms-flaujae-johnson-shines-hits-110722119.html">let Griner know</a> about her ability to get to the hoop. 
There were also a few sleeper rookies who shone this past weekend, with one being Serbian guard Jovana Nogic with the Phoenix Mercury. She’s a confident shot taker with a three-ball consistently in her bag, and the Mercury really needed someone like her injected into the roster following the loss of Satou Sabally in free agency. 
Madina Okot, the former board-eater with the South Carolina Gamecocks, quickly established herself as an apt Griner replacement for the Atlanta Dream on the glass with 11 rebounds and 14 points in her debut. 
It’ll be exciting to watch several other high-ceiling rookies like Azzi Fudd, Raven Johnson, and Awa Fam begin to hit their stride throughout this season. But it’s obvious that the All-Rookie race and the battle for Rookie of the Year are not going to be a clear-cut. 
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<h2>2. Washington Mystics and Their Young Core</h2>
Following a downtrodden 2025 season riddled with injuries, the Mystics snapped up quite a few big-name bigs in this year’s draft, adding some depth behind their key frontcourt duo in Shakira Austin and Kiki Iriafen. 
Those two, plus guard Sonia Citron, already look to be a serious problem for teams this year thanks to their defensive effort and ability to score all over the floor. Citron is averaging 21.5 points on 54.2 percent shooting from the field, while Iriafen firmly leads the league in rebounding through two contests. Austin is a bit of a unicorn for the Mystics as she has multiple ways of killing teams as a scorer, thanks to her excellent ball-handling for a forward, but her health has to remain intact for Washington to truly make some noise later in the season and in the race to the postseason. 
While it’s a small sample size, there’s more than enough to be scared about with the potential of this Mystics squad. 
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<h2>3. Fringe Contenders Impressed</h2>
While we know the Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty are strong candidates for being Finals-bound, there are a few other squads that have the depth and star power to push either of those teams to the brink. The Dallas Wings, Atlanta Dream, and Phoenix Mercury all proved to be that sort of potential thorn in the Aces and Liberty’s sides with their opening weekend performances. 
For Phoenix, the largest question for them this offseason was how they’d fare after losing Sabally in free agency. The answer to that question is multi-fold: they’re relying on the defensive presence provided by Alyssa Thomas, in addition to the health and three-level scoring of Kahleah Copper. And, they have the depth to have a strong run in the regular season, followed by an even stronger one in the postseason. 
You’d have to imagine Phoenix is itching to get back to the Finals following getting swept by the Aces in 2025. Well, a start to the year that features 47.8 shooting from three-point range and an emphatic victory over the Aces in their season debut surely communicates how hungry they are to get back to that peak. 
As for the Wings, there are still huge question marks about their defensive capabilities. Alanna Smith, the co-Defensive Player of the Year in 2025, was brought on by the Wings as an attempt to address at least one part of their defensive weakness. 
She had a tough matchup in the Wings’ first game, which was against Aliyah Boston and the Indiana Fever. Still, you have to love Dallas’ upside on offense. They posted a 120.2 offensive rating in their first game, led by Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, and Odyssey Sims. 
Atlanta’s bread and butter this season may be their ability to keep teams grounded thanks to their defense. They immediately saw the benefit of adding Angel Reese to their roster this offseason via trade in their first game, against the Lynx. 
She and Allisha Gray had back-to-back blocks to seal their victory over Minnesota, showing just how valuable a piece Reese could be to Atlanta on defense while she still carves out a role on offense. That block was her third, which was a team-high, which added to her already impressive line featuring 14 boards and 11 points.
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<h2>4. New York Liberty and Golden State Valkyries Undefeated </h2>
<div id="attachment_260411" style="width: 910px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-260411" class="wp-image-260411" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2275536485-1-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2275536485-1-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2275536485-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2275536485-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2275536485-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2275536485-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/05/GettyImages-2275536485-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" />Janelle Salaun #13 of the Golden State Valkyries</div>
Again, it’s way too early in the season to frame these teams’ undefeated records following tip-off weekend as anything more than a two-game winning streak, but both teams’ methods of winning were impressive nonetheless. 
For Golden State, they’ve once again been relying on guard Veronica Burton and forward Janelle Salaun for firepower. Salaun, specifically, has been a revelation and is already building off of her All-Rookie campaign in 2025. Her 56.3 percent shooting from three-point range to start the year leads the Valkyries, and she’s taken the second-most three pointers so far this season in the league. 
 
Burton has contributed with her passing, hitting 12 assists in Golden State’s win over the Mercury, while also picking up three steals. She was a big factor in the Valkyries’ win over Phoenix, sealing their 2-0 record following the opening weekend. 
Golden State’s bench is also looking good to start the year, which is, again, a huge factor for any team seeking to become a true contender. Their second unit has averaged 42 points per game through two contests and is shooting 52 percent from deep. They’re also averaging 2.5 blocks per game, which is good for second in the league so far. Again, small sample size, but it’s clear that the Valkyries have the depth necessary to go up against other powerhouse squads early on in the year. 
Taking a look at New York, it’s hard not to point out the start that Breanna Stewart has had. She’s leading the team in shot attempts and is still shooting an efficient 47.5 percent from the field overall. With Sabrina Ionescu out to begin the year, it was important that either she, Jonquel Jones, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, or newly-added guard Pauline Astier would pick up the scoring slack, and Stewart has taken that role seriously through two contests. 
New York’s bench has been a bit shakier of a foundation for them compared to that of Golden State’s, but with no Leonie Fiebich or Ionescu during tip-off weekend, that drop-off was expected. Getting Laney-Hamilton back is also a huge plus for the Liberty’s future depth, with the forward an ever-lurking threat from midrange for New York’s guards to play off of. 
Their veteran-heavy roster and ability to match up with just about anyone make them a top threat once again. 
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<h2>5. The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire’s Opening Crowds</h2>
If you caught the Toronto Tempo’s first-ever home game against the Washington Mystics, which nearly ended with a ton of drama, then you probably had to turn your television down a few times. The crowd at the Coca-Cola Coliseum was unbelievably loud, which is well-deserved after the team pushed things down to the wire against a talented Mystics squad. 
Portland’s crowd was not only loud, but they added themselves to the history books with a record-breaking 19,335 fans at their season opener. That’s the largest crowd for any inaugural team’s season opener in WNBA history, and a great representation of just how great the demand is for more WNBA basketball. 
While the Fire and Tempo lost their respective opening contests, they’re off on the right foot. They have too much talent to be struggling for long.

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Five Things I Like: WNBA Tip-Off 2026

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Game Recap: Liberty 106, Sun 75

Betting + Odds

The wait is finally over! The 2026 WNBA season tips off Friday, May 8, with a packed opening weekend full of new faces, familiar names in new spots, and plenty of competition right out of the gate. The Connecticut Sun and New York Liberty get things started at 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, with 10 more games rolling through the rest of the weekend.
Let’s break down the <a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/leagues/basketball/wnba?category=game-lines&amp;subcategory=game">WNBA odds</a> for Friday and Saturday, take a look at the matchups, and share my best bets for each day on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Stay locked into the WNBA’s 30th season with game previews, best bets, player props and more on <a href="https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/">DraftKingsNetwork.com!</a>
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<h2>WNBA Tip-Off Weekend Odds </h2>
<h3>Friday, May 8</h3>
Connecticut Sun vs. New York Liberty (7:30 p.m. ET) — NY -10.5, O/U 159.5
The New York Liberty enter the season as the favorites to win it all at +220 and return almost their entire core from last year. Sabrina Ionescu, a huge part of New York’s identity, will miss at least the first game after suffering an ankle injury in the preseason, while Satou Sabally, the Liberty’s biggest offseason addition, will also start the season sidelined.
Connecticut has a less experienced roster and recently added 10-time All-Star Brittney Griner, but the Sun still feel undermatched against the Finals favorites.
Washington Mystics vs. Toronto Tempo (7:30 p.m. ET) — TOR -1.5, O/U 160.5
Introducing one of the league’s newest franchises, the Tempo, as Toronto hosts its inaugural home game Friday night. Marina Mabrey arrives from the Sun via the Expansion Draft and looks to carry over her dominant Unrivaled season, while former UCLA guard Kiki Rice headlines the draft class after averaging 14.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game.
The Mystics bring back sophomores Sonia Citron and Kiki Irafen, with Citron leading the league in three-point percentage at 44.5% as a rookie. The roster is young, but this is a good early test for both teams.
Golden State Valkyries vs. Seattle Storm (10:00 p.m. ET) — GS -6.5, O/U 157.5
Seattle underwent a roster overhaul in the offseason, with Nneka Ogwumike, Gabby Williams, Brittney Sykes, and Skylar Diggins-Smith all moving on. However, they’ve added young talent, including Spain’s Awa Fam at No. 3 overall. At 19, Fam brings fluidity at her size with the ability to pass and attack the rim. It’ll be interesting to see how she pairs with last year’s pick Dominique Malonga, who has shown elite athleticism and strong upside at 20.
Gabby Williams gets her former team on opening night and was Golden State’s top offseason addition. Her stats don’t jump off the page, but her defense definitely does. Williams’ 99 steals last season put her one shy of the record, and she adds speed and versatility to a Valkyries team that made the playoffs in its inaugural year.
Friday Best Bets (Singles)
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<li>NY Liberty -10.5 (-102)</li>
<li>Marina Mabrey Over 1.5 Three Pointers Made (-166)</li>
<li>Brittney Sykes Over 14.5 Points (+115)</li>
</ul>
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<h3>Saturday, May 9</h3>
Dallas Wings vs. Indiana Fever (1:00 p.m. ET) — IND -6.5 O/U 175.5
Bring out the stars! Saturday tips off with Caitlin Clark facing last year’s Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers, with the current favorite for the award, Azzi Fudd, also on the floor. We haven’t seen Clark since July 15, 2025 due to injury, but she returns as an elite facilitator for a Fever team that reached the second round despite missing multiple guards.
Bueckers is coming off an impressive rookie debut as the only player to rank top 10 in points, assists, and steals. Her former UConn teammate Azzi Fudd adds another pure shooter with the strength to contribute defensively, setting up a star-studded matchup.
Phoenix Mercury vs. Las Vegas Aces (3:30 p.m. ET)— LV -7.5 O/U 166.5
A’ja Wilson. Need I say more? The reigning champion enters 2026 after winning her fourth regular-season MVP and another Finals MVP. She shot 50.5% from the field while averaging 23.4 points and 10.2 rebounds on the way to a title. Jackie Young is another name to watch after averaging 16.5 points in the regular season, then elevating to 20.4 points per game in the playoffs while shooting 49.4%.
Don’t count out the Mercury, though. Phoenix brings back Alyssa Thomas, DeWanna Bonner, and Kahleah Copper as they push for a return to the playoffs. Thomas is coming off an MVP-level season with 15.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 9.2 assists, controlling the game with her physicality. The Mercury lost Satou Sabally but still have the experience and shooting to make an early statement.
Atlanta Dream vs. Minnesota Lynx (8:00 p.m. ET) — ATL -3.5, O/U 157.5
While many familiar faces changed teams, Angel Reese made the biggest splash. In Chicago, she led the league in rebounds and became the only player in WNBA history to average at least 12.0 per game in a season. She joins a physical, experienced roster that thrives on second-chance points. Rhyne Howard is a standout shooter, especially from deep, and with the fourth-best odds to win it all, the Dream are a team to watch.
Minnesota started last season red hot, often sitting atop the title odds behind Napheesa Collier’s two-way dominance. Coming into 2026, the roster looks a bit different. Co-DPOY Alanna Smith is gone, along with key role players, but the Lynx did bring back Kayla McBride — a sharpshooter coming off back-to-back All-Star seasons. Plus, Minnesota added TCU’s Olivia Miles at No. 2 overall in the draft, a smart floor general who led the NCAA in triple-doubles.
Chicago Sky vs. Portland Fire (9:00 p.m. ET) — CHI -4.5 O/U 160.5
The second expansion team to debut is the Fire, featuring Bridget Carleton, Carla Leite, and center Ceiseloder. We haven’t seen them in a regular season game yet, but they draw a softer matchup against a Sky team retooling its direction. After moving on from Angel Reese, Chicago now features Skylar Diggins, DiJonai Carrington, Azurá Stevens, Rickea Jackson, and No. 5 pick Gabriel Jaquez. Jaquez left UCLA on a high note after a dominant national championship run and shot 53.9% from the field in the regular season.
Saturday Best Bets (Singles):
<ul>
<li>Caitlin Clark Under 2.5 Three Pointers Made (+110)</li>
<li>A’ja Wilson Over 23.5 Points (-125)</li>
<li>MIN Lynx +3.5 (-102)</li>
</ul>
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All odds and lines provided by DraftKings Sportsbook and are subject to change.
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WNBA Tip-Off 2026 Weekend Odds, Best Bets on DraftKings Sportsbook

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The 30th WNBA season is finally upon us. 210 days after the Las Vegas Aces hoisted the 2025 championship trophy, the 2026 campaign opens with WNBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax.



Beginning Friday, May 8, seven nationally broadcast games will celebrate the start of the season, including the debuts of the league’s two newest franchises — the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire. The slate also features a Finals rematch, a contest featuring the four most recent No. 1 draft picks, and much more.



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We’ll dive into each matchup below, so all that’s left is to get the popcorn ready for a new season of WNBA hoops.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Friday, May 8</h2>



Connecticut Sun at New York Liberty (7:30 p.m. ET, ION)



New York opens the season as a favorite to reach the WNBA Finals for the third time in four years (and seventh time overall). According to the league’s general managers, who voted Aces vs. Liberty as the most likely Finals matchup.



The Liberty return the core of their 2024 title squad by re-signing Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Sabrina Ionescu, the latter of whom will be sidelined for this season-opening matchup after suffering an ankle injury during the preseason. New York also added two-time All-Star Satou Sabally in free agency and has Betnijah Laney-Hamilton returning after missing the 2025 season with a knee injury.



The Liberty’s stacked roster will host a Connecticut squad set to open its “Sunset Season” before the franchise relocates in 2027. While much of Connecticut’s roster is young, the Sun signed former champion and 10-time All-Star Brittney Griner, who will make her Sun debut on Friday.



Washington Mystics at Toronto Tempo (7:30 p.m. ET, ION)



In the first of two expansion debuts to take place during WNBA Tip-Off presented by CarMax, the Toronto Tempo will host the Washington Mystics in their inaugural game.



This game offers the first regular-season look at the Tempo roster, which was built over a whirlwind five weeks through the expansion draft, college draft, and free agency. It also introduces a new WNBA city, ready to build its own identity and traditions.



The Mystics were voted third among teams with the most promising young core by the league’s GMs. Led by last year’s pair of rookie All-Stars — Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen — the Mystics’ roster is loaded with rookies and sophomores and features only two players with at least four years of experience. This matchup in Toronto will be an early opportunity to help this young group grow together.



Golden State Valkyries at Seattle Storm (10 p.m. ET, ION)



After an inaugural season like no other in league history — Golden State became the first expansion team to make the WNBA playoffs — the Valkyries open their sophomore season on the road against the new-look Seattle Storm.



Gabby Williams, Golden State’s marquee offseason addition, will make her Valkyries debut and her return to Seattle — where she played from 2022-25 — on the same night. Williams dominated the GM voting as the best perimeter defender in the league, earning 60% of the vote. She joins an already top-flight defense, making the Valkyries even more dangerous.



In Seattle, the Storm tied with Dallas for the GM vote on the most promising young core. That includes rookies Awa Fam (No. 3 overall) and Flau&#8217;jae Johnson (No. 8) as well as last year&#8217;s No. 2 pick Dominique Malonga, who tied for the most votes to have a breakout season in 2026.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Saturday, May 9</h2>



Dallas Wings at Indiana Fever (1 p.m. ET, ABC)



Saturday’s ABC doubleheader begins with a star-studded clash between the Wings and Fever, with the last four No. 1 overall picks sharing the court – Indiana’s Aliyah Boston (2023) and Caitlin Clark (2024) vs. Dallas’ Paige Bueckers (2025) and Azzi Fudd (2026).



This marks the first regular-season appearance for Clark since July 15, as her sophomore season was limited to 13 games due to injury. Clark’s return, alongside Boston and All-WNBA First Team selection Kelsey Mitchell, gives the Fever a “Big Three” that can match up with any trio in the league.



This game also features the WNBA debut of sharpshooter Fudd, who became the seventh UConn player selected with the top pick in the draft. Fudd reunites with former college teammate Bueckers, who is coming off one of the most impressive rookie seasons in WNBA history. That backcourt duo, alongside Arike Ogunbowale, plus the addition of reigning co-Defensive Player of the Year Alanna Smith, helped Dallas earn 67% of the GM’s vote as the most improved team entering 2026.



Phoenix Mercury at Las Vegas Aces (3:30 p.m. ET, ABC)



The Las Vegas Aces open their title defense with a 2025 Finals rematch against the Phoenix Mercury, which ended in an Aces sweep last October.



Coming off their third title in the last four seasons, the Aces return their championship core as they look to run it back. The league GMs named the Aces the favorites to repeat as champions and superstar A’ja Wilson as the favorite to win a fifth league MVP. The Aces swept the vote for best point guard (Chelsea Gray), best shooting guard (Jackie Young), best forward (Wilson), and best center (Wilson).&nbsp;



Meanwhile, the Mercury will look to return to the Finals with the returns of Alyssa Thomas, DeWanna Bonner, and Kahleah Copper. However, Phoenix did lose All-Star Satou Sabally in free agency. This game gives Phoenix an early test against the defending champions and a chance to snap a seven-game losing streak to Las Vegas – the four Finals games, plus the last three regular-season meetings of 2025.



Chicago Sky at Portland Fire (9 p.m. ET, NBA TV)



For the first time since Aug. 11, 2002, a regular-season WNBA game will be played in the Rose City as the Portland Fire reignites after a three-season run from 2000-02.



Nearly 24 years later, WNBA hoops officially returns to Portland as the Fire welcome the Sky for their season opener. Similar to the Tempo, this game provides the first regular-season look at the Fire’s roster and game-day atmosphere. Similar to Golden State’s “Ballhalla” nickname for their home court at Chase Center, Portland has dubbed its Moda Center home “The Fire Pit.”



The new-look Sky will be the first team to enter The Fire Pit after a busy offseason featuring the additions of Skylar Diggins, DiJonai Carrington, Azurá Stevens, Rickea Jackson, and No. 5 draft pick Gabriela Jaquez, following the departures of Angel Reese and Ariel Atkins.



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Sunday, May 10



Las Vegas Aces at Los Angeles Sparks (6 p.m. ET, USA)



Rounding out the opening weekend’s nationally broadcast slate is a matchup of two franchises with three WNBA titles apiece — the Las Vegas Aces (2022, 2024, 2025) and Los Angeles Sparks (2001, 2002, 2016).



This is also a clash between two of only four active players to have won league MVP honors — Las Vegas’ four-time winner A’ja Wilson (2020, 2022, 2024-25) and Los Angeles’ Nneka Ogwumike (2016), who returns to the Sparks after playing the last two seasons in Seattle. L.A. also added defensive stalwart Ariel Atkins from Chicago this offseason.



While the Aces tip off their title defense on Saturday, this marks the season opener for the Sparks. It also features two former Aces — Kelsey Plum and Dearica Hamby — facing their former squad after going 1-3 against them last season. Can the new-look Sparks make an early statement by knocking off the defending champs?
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Game Previews: WNBA Tip-Off 2026 Weekend

Analysis

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The WNBA is officially tipping off its 30th season on May 8, with the preseason already wrapped up and fans given a glimpse of what’s to come for several contenders, rookies, and big signings from a tumultuous free agency.&nbsp;



The excitement surrounding this season is reaching a fever pitch, especially with so many moving parts this offseason and with two new teams added to the league ahead of 2026. While there’s likely an infinite number of things that fans are looking forward to this season, we’ll take a look at 10 things that should be on fans’ radars ahead of tip-off weekend.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. How Dominant will the Aces Be?</h2>



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The Las Vegas Aces shocked the world in 2025. Sitting at 14-13, the Aces headed into a fateful August 2nd contest against the Minnesota Lynx, where the Lynx had the biggest road victory in WNBA history &#8211; the final score was 111-58.



That loss handed Las Vegas a 14-14 record with just 16 games left in the season. Their response to being on the losing end of that WNBA record? Winning 16 games in a row, blowing by their postseason competition, and sweeping the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA Finals to land their third championship in four seasons.&nbsp;



The team didn’t shake up their starting lineup much for 2026, and why would they? A’ja Wilson is primed for another MVP run, while their mid-season trade last year that landed NaLyssa Smith ended up paying off in dividends. They also re-signed Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, and Dana Evans, while also upgrading their bench with Chennedy Carter, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, Brianna Turner, and Stephanie Talbot.&nbsp;



It’s hard to imagine a world where Las Vegas gets anywhere close to their lows from their 2025 season &#8211; and that&#8217;s a scary prospect for the rest of the league. This is not to say that there aren’t other contenders, but it sure does feel like the championship runs through Michelob Ultra Arena.&nbsp;



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Tight ROTY race</h2>



Azzi Fudd went first overall to the Dallas Wings, and that pick immediately re-paired her with former championship backcourt sidekick Paige Bueckers. We’ll get into that momentarily.&nbsp;



Fudd, while an electric guard who can score at all three levels, has some stiff competition ahead for the 2026 Rookie of the Year award. Preseason was a great look into that potential race, with several neophytes proving they’re more than ready for the challenge of WNBA physicality, speed, and competition.&nbsp;



Lauren Betts, the fourth-overall pick in this year’s draft, averaged 15 points per game along with 4.5 rebounds, two assists, and one steal for the Washington Mystics in the preseason. Raven Johnson was a defensive stalwart for the Indiana Fever in preseason, contributing 2.3 steals, 4.7 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and six points per game in Indiana’s three preseason games. Olivia Miles, who was snagged by the Lynx right after Fudd was off the board, looks like an extremely tidy fit next to Courtney Williams in Minnesota’s backcourt already. She averaged 10.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and three assists in three games. 



We haven’t even mentioned Flau’jae Johnson’s preseason performances, which were capped by a 20-point performance against the Portland Fire.&nbsp;



This is going to be a ridiculously fun ROTY race.&nbsp;



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Two New Expansion Teams</h2>



The Toronto Tempo and Fire are kicking off their inaugural seasons during the WNBA’s 30th year, with Portland “reviving” its past franchise and returning to create a neat rivalry with the Seattle Storm. For Toronto, the Tempo’s tip-off marks a major expansion into Canada, with games scheduled in Vancouver and Montreal.&nbsp;



As we saw with the Golden State Valkyries in 2025, you simply cannot write off a new team before they’ve even gotten a chance to establish their play style and identity in the regular season. The league is teeming with talent, and Portland and Toronto are offering 24 more roster spots to players who would not have gotten the opportunity to suit up or even start in 2026.&nbsp;



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. The Impending MVP race</h2>



As mentioned, it’s expected that Wilson will continue her dominance over the MVP award in 2026. This could be the year that Napheesa Collier, also, finally, breaks through this wall and wins the award for the first time. She was considered a frontrunner alongside Wilson last year. Alyssa Thomas is also always an underrated force to be reckoned with in this race.&nbsp;



Other names to watch include Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Kelsey Plum, Allisha Gray, or even Paige Bueckers. It’s difficult to imagine this award going to anyone other than a big, but these guards have a shot at making Wilson’s road to a fifth MVP honor a bit shakier.&nbsp;



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. Surprising Contenders</h2>



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The preseason was a nice window into what’s to come for this year, and an even better glimpse into which teams could shock fans with great seasons. The Wings looked fantastic in their final preseason contest against the Aces, with Aziaha James leading the way with 18 points, four rebounds, two steals, two assists, and a block. Their depth could come up huge for them in 2026, especially as much of that depth was added by way of free agency. The more veterans like Alanna Smith and Jess Sheppard to help lead their young core, the better.&nbsp;



Another potential contender could be the Indiana Fever, who now have a healthy Clark back in the fold. With her, Aliyah Boston, and Kelsey Mitchell, their core is set up for a decent run at top seeding this season. Plus, their depth seems to be a strength this year. It depends on how healthy they can remain throughout the season. On paper, the Fever look primed for a return to the postseason.&nbsp;



A third team to watch for a deep postseason run is the Atlanta Dream. They aren’t necessarily a surprising team considering they’ve made the postseason each year for the last three years. But their addition of Reese this offseason changes their makeup. As a team heavily reliant on spacing, lending itself to the effectiveness of its bigs, they made quite the splash acquiring a player who lives at the rim for her offense as well as Reese does.&nbsp;



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">6. The Impact of Big Free Agency Signings</h2>



Free agency was just as chaotic as the trade market this offseason. There were some notable returns, like Nneka Ogwumike heading back to the Los Angeles Sparks and Azurá Stevens landing back with the Chicago Sky. The Sky also acquired Skylar Diggins on the free agent market, adding some much-needed veteran guard play to a young roster in need of some direction. 



Other significant free-agent moves included Alanna Smith heading to the Wings after spending her last two seasons with the Lynx, Gabby Williams leaving the Storm for the Valkyries, and Brittney Griner heading to the Connecticut Sun after a brief stint with the Dream.&nbsp;



These are all hugely impactful signings, and some could even swing teams from having fringe postseason potential to being full-fledged contenders. The Wings and the Valkyries certainly qualify under that umbrella thanks to these signature signings.&nbsp;



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">7. Fudd and Bueckers Reunited in Dallas</h2>



With Fudd landing with Dallas, the Wings have an opportunity to witness a rookie come into the WNBA and immediately be comfortable with their backcourt company. Fudd and Bueckers finally won an NCAA championship together in 2025, before Bueckers was drafted by the Wings. Their work together as the UConn Huskies’ starting backcourt was must-watch TV, and Dallas is seemingly hoping to replicate their success in the WNBA with their Fudd pick.&nbsp;



In preseason, Fudd&#8217;s play was a mixed bag, averaging just 8 points per game and 1 assist, struggling with the league’s physicality and speed during the transition. However, her upside is obvious from her time with UConn, and the Wings have an opportunity to recreate one of the best one-two offensive punches in women’s college basketball history with her added to the fold. 



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">8. Angel Reese in Atlanta</h2>



Reese landed with the Dream following a shocking trade with the Sky this offseason. Following yet another All-Star campaign in 2025, she lands with an Atlanta team that feels a piece or two away from making a Finals push.&nbsp;



Whether or not she is that final piece will be fun to see, especially since the Dream already roster two powerful scoring options in Gray and Rhyne Howard. Atlanta already led the league in rebounding prior to acquiring Reese, who will be aiming to add her 2025 league-leading 12.6 rebounds per game to the fold. Three-point shooting for the Dream will be key to unlocking her potential with this lineup.&nbsp;



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">9. Sophomore Leaps</h2>



Anyone catching Wings, Mystics, or Sun games was probably impressed by the performances of second-year players headed into the 2026 season. For Dallas, that includes Bueckers, of course, but also Aziaha James, who averaged 17.5 points per game along with 5.5 rebounds, three steals, and 2.5 assists in the preseason. For Washington, both Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen look poised to continue to raise the ceiling of the Mystics after both nearly spoiled Bueckers’ bid for ROTY in 2025.&nbsp;



Saniya Rivers already looks like a huge leader for the Sun on the floor headed into 2026. She was excellent in Unrivaled this past offseason, and her 2nd season with the Sun looks poised to be a launching pad for her to go from an impressive rookie to a borderline star. Her defensive strengths were on display throughout the preseason, and she unlocked Connecticut’s potential on offense thanks to her quick thinking in transition and her speed.&nbsp;



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">10. Celebrating Season 30</h2>



Of course, in addition to all of these things, the WNBA’s players have to be excited about putting on a show for the league’s 30th year. There have been so many legends that have defined the league in such a short period of time, and we’re also witnessing legendary careers unfold before us in real time.&nbsp;



You cannot take the current talent on display this season for granted, especially the performances by players like Wilson, Clark, Collier, Thomas, and so many others. This is a major milestone for the league to have reached, and the momentum for players and fans in 2026 is only getting stronger.
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10 Things to Look Forward to in Season 30

GM Survey

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The WNBA is stepping into a defining new era. From A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart to a wave of generational talent across every draft class, the league’s depth continues to grow entering its 30th year. With expansion underway and <a href="http://wnba.com/news/wnba-wnbpa-tentative-cba-deal-2026">a new Collective Bargaining Agreement</a> set to take effect, the annual General Manager Survey offers a snapshot of a league already in motion.
The rise of second-year guard Paige Bueckers has the Dallas Wings selected as the most fun team to watch and most improved entering 2026, with Bueckers also the top choice among general managers as the player to sign when building a franchise.
<a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/wilson-2025-mvp">Reigning MVP Wilson</a> is predicted to dominate once again and is the top choice to win the league’s Most Valuable Player award. The <a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/las-vegas-aces-finals-accolades-2025">defending champion</a> Las Vegas Aces are also favored to repeat as Finals winners.
Following a whirlwind offseason marked by significant player movement, Gabby Williams (Golden State) and Angel Reese (Atlanta) are named the two most impactful offseason acquisitions, while the Valkyries and the Dream were voted the top defensive teams, respectively.
Elsewhere on the survey, the effects of the new CBA are already shaping roster construction, and GMs identify the addition of two developmental roster spots as the biggest adjustment heading into this season.
WNBA GMs responded to 42 different questions about the best teams, players, coaches and offseason moves. General managers were not permitted to vote for their own team or personnel. Percentages are based on the pool of respondents to that particular question, rather than all 15 GMs.
&gt;&gt;The results of last year’s GM Survey are available <a href="https://www.wnba.com/news/2025-wnba-gm-survey">here</a>.
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<h3>PREDICTIONS</h3>
Which team will win the 2026 WNBA Finals? 
1. Las Vegas – 40% 
2. New York – 33% 
3. Atlanta – 27% 
**Last year: Minnesota – 60%
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<h3>PLAYERS</h3>
Who will win 2026 Kia WNBA MVP? 
1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 60% 
2. Breanna Stewart, New York – 27% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving: Caitlin Clark (IND); Allisha Gray (ATL) 
**Last year: Napheesa Collier – 67%
If you were starting a franchise today and could sign any player in the WNBA, who would it be? 
1. Paige Bueckers, Dallas – 33% 
T-2. Caitlin Clark, Indiana – 20% 
T-2. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 20% 
3. Dominique Malonga, Seattle – 13% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Breanna Stewart (NYL); Napheesa Collier (MIN) 
**Last year: Caitlin Clark – 50%
Which player forces opposing coaches to make the most adjustments? 
1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 60% 
2. Alyssa Thomas, Phoenix – 13% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Caitlin Clark (IND); Napheesa Collier (MIN); Kelsey Mitchell (IND); 
Breanna Stewart (NYL) 
**Last year: A’ja Wilson – 33%
Which player is most likely to have a breakout season? 
T-1. Dominique Malonga, Seattle – 15% 
T-1. Rickea Jackson, Chicago – 15% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Julie Allemand (TOR); Cameron Brink (LAS); Paige Bueckers (DAL); Kennedy Burke (CON); Veronica Burton (GSV); Rhyne Howard (ATL); Marina Mabrey (TOR); Leila Lacan (CON); Jackie Young (LVA) 
**Last year: Satou Sabally – 20%
Who is the best point guard in the WNBA? 
1. Chelsea Gray, Las Vegas – 73% 
2. Caitlin Clark, Indiana – 20% 
3. Paige Bueckers, Dallas – 7% 
**Last year: Caitlin Clark and Chelsea Gray &#8212; 50%
Who is the best shooting guard in the WNBA? 
1. Jackie Young, Las Vegas – 27% 
2. Paige Bueckers, Dallas – 20% 
T-3. Kelsey Mitchell, Indiana – 13% 
T-3. Sabrina Ionescu, New York – 13% 
T-3. Allisha Gray, Atlanta – 13% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Kelsey Plum (LVA); Kayla McBride (MIN) 
**Last year: Caitlin Clark &#8211; 33%
Who is the best forward in the WNBA? 
1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 47% 
T-2. Napheesa Collier, Minnesota – 27% 
T-2. Breanna Stewart, New York – 27% 
**Last year: Napheesa Collier and A’ja Wilson – 33%
Who is the best center in the WNBA? 
1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 57% 
2. Jonquel Jones, New York – 21% 
3. Aliyah Boston, Indiana – 14% 
4. Brionna Jones, Atlanta – 7% 
**Last year: A’ja Wilson – 50%
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<h3>OFFSEASON</h3>
Which team made the best overall moves this offseason? 
1. Dallas – 47% 
2. Atlanta – 33% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Chicago; Las Vegas; New York 
**Last year: Indiana – 64%
Which player acquisition will make the biggest impact? 
T-1. Angel Reese, Atlanta – 27% 
T-1. Gabby Williams, Golden State 27% 
3. Nneka Ogwumike, Los Angeles – 20% 
4. Satou Sabally, New York – 13% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Marina Mabrey (TOR); Skylar Diggins (CHI) 
**Last year: Alyssa Thomas – 50%
What was the most underrated player acquisition? 
T-1. Ariel Atkins, Los Angeles – 21% 
T-1. Alanna Smith, Dallas – 21% 
3. Rickea Jackson, Chicago – 14% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Pauline Astier (NYL); Monique Billings (IND); Kennedy Burke (CON); Nneka Ogwumike (LAS); Nyara Sabally (TOR); Erica Wheeler (LAS) 
**Last year: Sophie Cunningham, Ariel Atkins and DiJonai Carrington – 17%
What was the most surprising move of the offseason? 
1. Satou Sabally, New York &#8211; 23% 
T-2. Angel Reese, Atlanta – 15% 
T-2. Alanna Smith, Dallas – 15% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Bridget Carleton (POR); Skylar Diggins (CHI); Rickea Jackson (CHI); Marina Mabrey (TOR); Jacy Sheldon (CHI); Brittney Sykes (TOR) 
**Last year: DeWanna Bonner – 33%
Which team will be most improved in 2026? 
1. Dallas – 67% 
2. Chicago – 20% 
3. Los Angeles – 13% 
**Last year: Indiana – 42%
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<h3>ROOKIES + INTERNATIONAL</h3>
Who will win 2026 Kia WNBA Rookie of the Year? 
1. Olivia Miles, Minnesota – 73% 
2. Azzi Fudd, Dallas – 20% 
3. Flau’jae Johnson, Seattle – 7% 
**Last year: Paige Bueckers – 73%
Which rookie will be the best player in five years? 
1. Awa Fam, Seattle – 67% 
2. Olivia Miles, Minnesota – 33% 
**Last year: Dominique Malonga – 60%
Which rookie was the biggest steal at where she was selected in the Draft? 
T-1. Nell Angloma, Connecticut – 21% 
T-1. Ta&#8217;Niya Latson, Los Angeles – 21% 
3. Flau’jae Johnson, Seattle – 14% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Gianna Kneepkens (CON); Gabriela Jaquez (CHI); Cotie McMahon (WAS); Olivia Miles (MIN); Justine Pissott (IND); Awa Fam (SEA) 
**Last year: Dominique Malonga, Aaliyah Nye and Makayla Timpson &#8211; 20%
Who is the best international player in the WNBA? 
1. Jonquel Jones, New York – 33% 
2. Janelle Salaun, Golden State – 20% 
T-3. Alanna Smith, Dallas – 13% 
T-3. Dominique Malonga, Seattle – 13% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Leonie Fiebich (NYL); Leïla Lacan (CON); Awa Fam (SEA) 
**Last year: Jonquel Jones – 50%
Which country (outside of the U.S.) is producing the best WNBA talent right now? 
1. France – 100% 
**Last year: France – 80%
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<h3>DEFENSE</h3>
Who is the best defensive player in the WNBA? 
1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 53% 
2. Gabby Williams, Golden State – 20% 
3. Alyssa Thomas, Phoenix – 13% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: DiJonai Carrington (CHI); Alanna Smith (DAL) 
**Last year: Napheesa Collier, Minnesota – 33%
Who is the best interior defender in the WNBA? 
1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 73% 
2. Alanna Smith, Dallas – 13% 
T-3. Ezi Magbegor, Seattle – 7% 
T-3. Alyssa Thomas, Phoenix – 7% 
**Last year: A’ja Wilson– 67%
Who is the best perimeter defender in the WNBA? 
1. Gabby Williams, Golden State – 60% 
2. Brittney Sykes, Toronto – 20% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: DiJonai Carrington (CHI); Jordin Canada (ATL); Kahleah Copper (PHX) 
**Last year: DiJonai Carrington – 27%
Which team will be the best defensive team in the WNBA? 
1. Golden State – 50% 
2. Atlanta – 36% 
T-3. Indiana – 7% 
T-3. Minnesota – 7% 
**Last year: Minnesota – 73%
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<h3>COACHES</h3>
Who is the best head coach in the WNBA? 
1. Cheryl Reeve, Minnesota – 53% 
2. Becky Hammon, Las Vegas – 40% 
3. Natalie Nakase, Golden State – 7% 
**Last year: Cheryl Reeve – 83%
Which head coach is the best manager/motivator of people? 
1. Becky Hammon, Las Vegas – 43% 
T-2. Nate Tibbetts, Phoenix – 14% 
T-2. Stephanie White, Indiana – 14% 
T-2. Natalie Nakase, Golden State – 14% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Cheryl Reeve (MIN); Karl Smesko (ATL) 
**Last year: Cheryl Reeve – 36%
Which head coach makes the best in-game adjustments? 
1. Cheryl Reeve, Minnesota – 50% 
2. Becky Hammon, Las Vegas – 33% 
T-3. Natalie Nakase, Golden State &#8211; 7% 
T-3. Nate Tibbetts, Phoenix – 7% 
**Last year: Cheryl Reeve – 50%
Which head coach runs the best offense? 
1. Cheryl Reeve, Minnesota – 33% 
2. Nate Tibbetts, Phoenix – 20% 
T-3. Becky Hammon, Las Vegas – 13% 
T-3. Natalie Nakase, Golden State – 13% 
T-3. Karl Smesko, Atlanta – 13% 
6. Stephanie White, Indiana – 7% 
**Last year: Becky Hammon and Cheryl Reeve – 45%
Which new or relocated head coach will make the biggest impact on his/her new team? 
1. Sandy Brondello, Toronto – 71% 
2. Jose Fernandez, Dallas – 14% 
T-3. Sonia Raman, Seattle – 7% 
T-3. Chris DeMarco, New York – 7% 
**Last year: Stephanie White – 50%
Who is the best assistant coach in the WNBA? 
1. Eric Thibault, Minnesota – 36% 
T-2. Kristi Toliver, Phoenix – 18% 
T-2. Briann January, Indiana – 18% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Olaf Lange (TOR); Brandi Poole (ATL); Roneeka Hodges (CON)
Which active player will make the best head coach someday? 
1. Chelsea Gray, Las Vegas – 50% 
2. Courtney Vandersloot, Chicago – 17% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Lindsay Allen (DAL); Veronica Burton (GSV); Paige Bueckers (DAL); Alyssa Thomas (PHX) 
**Last year: Chelsea Gray – 36%
Which retired player who isn’t already coaching in the W should be? 
1. Sue Bird – 36% 
T-2. Katie Smith – 14% 
T-2. Candace Parker – 14% 
T-2. Seimone Augustus – 14% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Lindsay Harding; Lisa Leslie; Diana Taurasi 
**Last year: Dawn Staley, Lisa Leslie, Candice Dupree and Sue Bird – 18%
<hr />
<h3>MISCELLANEOUS</h3>
Which team will be the most fun to watch? 
1. Dallas – 36% 
T-2. Atlanta – 29% 
T-2. Indiana – 29% 
4. Golden State – 7% 
**Last year: Indiana – 75%
Which team has the best home-court advantage? 
1. Golden State – 64% 
2. Indiana – 21% 
3. New York – 14% 
**Last year: New York – 50%
Which team has the most promising young core? 
T-1. Dallas – 31% 
T-1. Seattle – 31% 
3. Washington – 23% 
4. Indiana – 15% 
**Last year: Indiana – 50%
Which player is the most athletic? 
1. Brittney Sykes, Toronto – 31% 
2. Dominique Malonga, Seattle – 15% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Cameron Brink (LAS); Kahleah Copper (PHX); Kelsey Mitchell (IND); Saniya Rivers (CON); Gabby Williams (GSV); A&#8217;ja Wilson (LVA); Jackie Young (LVA) 
**Last year: Kahleah Copper – 36%
Which player is the best passer? 
1. Chelsea Gray, Las Vegas – 93% 
2. Caitlin Clark, Indiana – 7% 
**Last year: Chelsea Gray – 75%
Which player is the best leader? 
1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 79% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Napheesa Collier (MIN); Chelsea Gray (LVA); Breanna Stewart (NYL) 
**Last year: Napheesa Collier and A’ja Wilson – 42%
Who is the most versatile player in the WNBA? 
1. Breanna Stewart, New York – 36% 
T-2. Gabby Williams, Golden State – 21% 
T-2. Alyssa Thomas, Phoenix – 21% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Napheesa Collier (MIN); Allisha Gray (ATL); Satou Sabally (NYL) 
**Last year: Napheesa Collier – 42%
Which player has the best basketball IQ? 
1. Chelsea Gray, Las Vegas – 93% 
2. Breanna Stewart, New York – 7% 
**Last year: Chelsea Gray – 36%
Which player would you want taking a shot with the game on the line? 
T-1. Chelsea Gray, Las Vegas – 36% 
T-1. A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas – 36% 
3. Jackie Young, Las Vegas – 14% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Paige Bueckers (DAL); Arike Ogunbowale (DAL) 
**Last year: Chelsea Gray – 25%
Which 2 teams will lead their conference in the Commissioner’s Cup to reach the championship game? 
1. Las Vegas (West) vs. New York (East) – 43% 
2. Las Vegas (West) vs. Atlanta (East) – 29% 
&gt;&gt; Also receiving votes: Las Vegas vs. Indiana; Phoenix vs. Atlanta; Dallas vs. New York; Los Angeles vs. New York 
**Last year: Minnesota (West) vs. New York (East) – 50%
Which change to the league this year will require the biggest adjustment? 
1. Development Player Spots – 42% 
2. New Expansion Teams – 25% 
3. New CBA – 17% 
4. World Cup Break – 8%

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2026 WNBA GM Survey: 42 Questions Ahead of the 30th Season

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