Preseason 2026

The WNBA’s 30th season officially kicks off on May 8 with three games tipping off to commemorate the occasion. Gelling with new teammates, showcasing draft picks, and figuring out a regular-season rotation are all possible during this time, which is what makes the WNBA’s upcoming slate of preseason contests all the more intriguing. 
WNBA ID members will receive a complimentary preseason preview of WNBA League Pass from April 25 through May 3. During this period, fans can stream all preseason games directly within the app with no subscription or credit card required.
Not a WNBA ID holder yet? You can join for free <a href="https://www.wnba.com/id?cid=wnba:id:digital:site:article:other:pre:26-058&amp;utm_medium=digital&amp;utm_campaign=id:pre&amp;utm_source=site:article:other&amp;utm_content=wnba:id:digital:site:article:other:pre:26-058">HERE</a> using your email address. If you’ve used NBA ID or had a WNBA account before, just log in with your existing info to activate your WNBA ID. If you have both, use your NBA ID password.
Let’s get into why you should catch each and every preseason contest coming up between April 25 and May 3, and how each game will prepare even the most novice fan for a huge WNBA season. 
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<h2>April 25</h2>
Nigeria @ Los Angeles Sparks
Nigeria will travel to Los Angeles to face the new-look Sparks to kick off the preseason. Ezinne Kalu had a spectacular showing at the Summer Olympics, most <a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/womens-olympic-basketball-tournament-paris-2024/news/ferocious-defense-a-difference-maker-for-kalu-and-nigeria">notably with</a> a huge victory over the Australian national team in group play. Head coach Rena Wakama just finished up serving as the first head coach of the newly minted Unrivaled team Hive BC, and also serves as an assistant coach with the Chicago Sky. 
 
Los Angeles will likely be testing out a roster that saw some major shakeups this offseason. The team traded 2024 4th overall pick Rickea Jackson to the Chicago Sky in exchange for veteran Ariel Atkins, as well as re-signing Nneka Ogwumike, a former championship-winning ry with the Sparks. 
Los Angeles also just drafted Ta’Niya Latson and Amelia Hassett, adding some rookie depth to their bench and ahead of their preseason. Defensively, they will be tested by D’Tigress. On offense, Los Angeles will be seeking to establish a much better offensive output than what they had in 2025 &#8211; a season in which they only averaged 33.7 percent from three-point range. 
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Chicago Sky @ Phoenix Mercury
The Sky just endured one of the biggest overhauls during an offseason that also didn’t quite signal a rebuild, but rather a reimagining. 
 
After trading Angel Reese, the Sky added a ton of firepower to the roster. Skylar Diggins and Dijonai Carrington are veterans the Sky added in free agency this offseason, while also re-signing veteran center Elizabeth Williams and 2021 champion Azurá Stevens. 
The team also landed young talent on the trade market in Jackson and guard Jacy Sheldon. And, in the draft, they took NCAA Tournament standout Gabriela Jacquez, adding to their fun guard room. 
The Mercury lost Satou Sabally on the free agent market, but they’ve got a core locked in long-term between Kahleah Copper, Alyssa Thomas, Monique Akoa-Makani, Natasha Mack, and Sami Whitcomb. They are closer to contenders than Chicago, but can still be tested with Carrington’s physicality and having to contain the offense that Jackson and Sheldon can generate with a point guard like Diggins on the floor.
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Indiana Fever @ New York Liberty 
New York reloaded this offseason, signing Jonquel Jones, Sabrina Ionescu, and Breanna Stewart to new deals, while also bringing on Sabally. They’re looking like the largest threat to a Las Vegas Aces repeat, although anything can happen come playoff time. They’ll likely be using the preseason to figure out, schematically, how all of their All-Star pieces fit together. 
As for Indiana, they’ll be tempering expectations for Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell, as both suffered injuries last season that still need monitoring. Clark hasn’t suited up since July of last season for the Fever, but she looked good in FIBA play this offseason. 
 
The Fever will probably be relying a ton on their bench and, specifically, 2026 draftee Raven Johnson, in the preseason. They shouldn’t risk the health of their star backcourt prior to the regular season tipping off, but Johnson’s play should be well worth the price of admission in this contest. 
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Seattle Storm @ Golden State Valkyries
It feels pretty clear what the pull of this contest would be: seeing if Flau’jae Johnson treats this as a revenge game against the team that traded her on draft night. The former LSU star was nearly headed to the Bay Area when a shocking trade went down between Golden State and Seattle, sending Johnson to the Storm and Marta Suarez to the Valkyries. 
These are two teams on very different paths. The Storm are in a full rebuild, having landed Awa Fam Thiam and Johnson on draft night to surround Dominique Malonga on the floor. The Valkyries, on the other hand, are looking to continue to establish themselves as a tough-nosed defensive team after signing Gabby Williams in free agency and trading for Suarez. 
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Minnesota Lynx @ Washington Mystics
A battle between two very fun rookie classes will take place in this contest. Minnesota, despite being a perennial postseason presence, landed the 2nd overall pick in this year’s draft. They took Olivia Miles at that spot, which is an unbelievably great fit for her, and for star forward Napheesa Collier. They also netted a sharp shooter in Lani White at the very end of the draft. 
Washington, on the other hand, went big. They drafted Lauren Betts, Angela Dugalić, Cotie McMahon, and Darianna Littlepage-Buggs to add to their frontcourt depth. They also re-signed Shakira Austin in free agency, adding even more competition to a loaded roster. 
This game should be a fun showing of rookie talent in the league, as well as a mini-UCLA Bruins showcase. 
<hr />
<h2>April 26</h2>
Japan @ Las Vegas Aces
The Aces re-tooled this offseason, bringing back NaLyssa Smith and Jackie Young in free agency, as well as re-signing superstar A’ja Wilson to a multi-year, supermax extension. They also added an overseas star and, most recently, Chicago Sky star guard Chennedy Carter to their roster, bolstering their guard room.
As for Japan, they will be missing a recently drafted member of their national team in Kokora Tanaka, who was taken by the Valkyries at 38th overall. Still, the squad has a defensive stalwart in Yuki Miyazawa, who can muck things up for Las Vegas’ frontcourt in this contest. Assuming Wilson doesn’t get much playing time, we could be in for a battle between Miyazawa and Smith, Bri Turner, Steph Talbot, or recently drafted Janiah Barker. 
<hr />
<h2>April 27</h2>
Nigeria @ Minnesota Lynx
Nigeria will continue its preseason play stateside against the Lynx. These are two teams with strong paint scoring, with Nigeria shooting an efficient 52.8 percent from the field, per <a href="https://www.fiba.basketball/en/events/fiba-womens-afrobasket-2025/teams/nigeria#statistics">their FIBA team profile</a>. The Lynx found 52.4 percent of their scoring from 2-point range, per the <a href="https://stats.wnba.com/teams/scoring/?sort=PCT_PTS_2PT&amp;dir=-1">WNBA stats site</a>, which makes sense given Collier’s, Bridget Carleton’s, and Alanna Smith’s presence there in 2025. Of course, Carleton and Smith are gone, leaving a spot or two open on the team’s offense alongside Collier. 
A new look Lynx team versus an up-and-coming FIBA powerhouse should make for some great play. 
<hr />
<h2>April 29</h2>
Japan @ Phoenix Mercury
This should be another great battle between two teams with great bigs. Mack just re-signed with the Mercury, while Japan will have Miyazawa in the paint to discourage Phoenix from any paint scoring. That shouldn’t be an issue for a team with as versatile a scoring profile as the Mercury, though, with Copper, Whitcomb, Thomas, and Akoa-Makani all threats on different levels. 
&nbsp;
Atlanta Dream @ Chicago Sky
The Dream shook up the offseason with a huge trade for Reese, while also keeping their core intact. Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, Reese, Naz Hillmon, and Bri Jones are just a few of the key members Atlanta managed to keep and bring on board. They’re suddenly contenders, in the same tier as the Aces, Liberty, Lynx, and Mercury. 
As for the specific appeal of this game, the pull is obvious: seeing if Reese gets any time on the floor against the team that just gave her up. If she doesn’t, we still get another interesting rookie showcase with the Dream having Madina Okot as their biggest get in the 2026 draft. For Chicago, getting some time from Gabriela Jacquez, Lattasha Lattimore, and Tonie Morgan will be critical for their bench construction. 
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Connecticut Sun @ Toronto Tempo
The Tempo are taking the floor for the first time, somewhat officially, in this preseason game. That’s already worth catching, especially considering the excitement the city of Toronto has had about tipping off their teams’ inaugural season. Of course, some high-level signings should also attract a crowd, with Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes on board alongside head coach Sandy Brondello. 
For the Sun, 2026 seems to be another interesting gap season with some great talent worth catching in the preseason. Saniya Rivers, their best rookie from last year, is back in the fold, while the team also signed future Hall of Famer Brittney Griner in free agency. Nell Angloma and Gianna Kneepkens are sure to get some decent playing time in this contest, with both first-rounders seeking to crack head coach Rachid Meziane’s rotation. 
And, if there are any Kiwis catching preseason, Charlisse Leger-Walker should be getting some action in this game. She’s the first player from New Zealand to ever be drafted into the WNBA. 
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Portland Fire @ Seattle Storm 
Fire and Storm fans have to be clamoring for these clashes to eventually turn into a proper Northwest rivalry. With both teams obviously in rebuild mode, or in Portland’s case, a build-up, this should be a good game to catch rookies fighting for roster spots. The Fire notably snagged a ton of great role players in the expansion draft, and also selected two international prospects with high ceilings in the college draft: Iyana Martín Carrión and Frieda Bühner. 
Seattle, again, is looking to see what they’ve got in their extremely young core of Malonga, Fam Thiam, and now Johnson. It’ll be hard for Portland to recreate the expansion magic that the Valkyries had last year, but they should still be competitive with how much veteran depth they now have. 
<hr />
<h2>April 30</h2>
Dallas Wings @ Indiana Fever
The Wings, after selecting Azzi Fudd first overall in this year’s draft, suddenly roster three top-5 picks in their backcourt, and two first overall picks. Paige Bueckers, who was taken first overall in 2025, is returning after winning Rookie of the Year and putting on a show during Unrivaled in the offseason. Ogunbowale returned to Dallas on a multi-year extension, hoping to bounce back after an uncharacteristically down year for her shooting. Fudd is now added to the roster, likely as a starter, to create even more offense. 
The Wings also made some key signings this offseason, bringing in Smith and Jess Sheppard from the Lynx, in addition to veteran Alysha Clark. They also brought back Odyssey Sims for backcourt depth. 
Of course, the Fever roster includes multiple first-rounders: Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Mitchell. While these players may not get a ton of time in the preseason, it’ll still be a fun preview of the future of star-studded matchups between the two clubs. 
<hr />
<h2>May 1</h2>
New York Liberty @ Connecticut Sun 
The Sun’s farewell tour of Uncasville will kick off in this preseason match against the Liberty. New York has had Connecticut’s number for a few years now, but they could easily be out-run by a younger Sun team in this preseason game. Rivers had some especially great showings against the Liberty in 2025, so we should expect her to get up just the same for a preseason match. 
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Washington Mystics @ Atlanta Dream 
While the Mystics did load up on bigs, they also snagged one of the draft’s most intriguing prospects in Rori Harmon at 34th overall. Defensively, she’s shown elite traits despite her size. On offense, there’s room for improvement, but she also averaged 6.2 assists per game in her last season with the Texas Longhorns. She could end up in a nice bench role after the Mystics traded Jacy Sheldon to the Sky. 
For Atlanta, its guard room is facing some decisions as well. Jordin Canada is back in the fold after re-signing in free agency, but she’s also dealt with some injury woes that have kept her sidelined for a good portion of her tenure with the Dream. Te-Hina Paopao is seeking a Year 2 boost to her stock, which could be helped along with a strong preseason showing. This battle between two young guards, Harmon and Paopao, should be entertaining. 
&nbsp;
Los Angeles Sparks @ Portland Fire
This is yet another preseason matchup where a former player could really make their former team hurt for letting them walk. In this case, it’s Barker, who was left unprotected by the Sparks in this year’s expansion draft. The guard was a great defender in her first season with Los Angeles, but couldn’t find a consistent shooting touch alongside Kelsey Plum. 
As for the Sparks, they’re in the midst of some restructuring that’s added some more shooting to their frontcourt and from long range. Trading for Atkins while also re-signing Sparks legend Ogwumike should help create even more spacing for a Sparks squad desperate for some better offensive output. 
Latson was the Sparks’ 2nd round selection in this year’s draft, and she should have a big role for Los Angeles off their bench if she can impress in the preseason. She’ll be facing off with quite a veteran-heavy squad in Portland, so doing well in this contest would speak volumes to her pro-readiness. 
&nbsp;
Las Vegas Aces @ Dallas Wings
The Aces’ most exciting selection from the draft, Barker, could see some ample playing time in this final preseason bout before the tip-off to the regular season. As for Dallas, their rookies &#8211; Fudd and Zee Spearman &#8211; should be getting some burn in this contest for the same reason. 
 
One final look at both teams’ benches and rookie talent should be a good window into their final roster and into how they plan to rotate between so much talent in the regular season. The Aces and Wings loaded up in free agency with key depth signings, and this is a good opportunity for both teams to feel themselves out in a final dress rehearsal. 
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2026-preseason-previews

2026 Previews: Every Preseason Game, On Us

Press Release

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-259229" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/30logo-1.png" alt="" width="200" height="72" />
Broadcast Schedule Features Record 216 National Games Across Regular Season 
Expanded Access Across Linear and Streaming Platforms Features Games 
Delivered by ABC/ESPN, NBC/Peacock/NBCSN, Prime Video, 
CBS Sports, ION, USA Network and NBA TV 
ESPN To Broadcast New York Liberty at Los Angeles Sparks on June 21, 
Commemorating Date of  WNBA’s inaugural game in 1997
NEW YORK, April 22, 2026 – The WNBA announced today its national broadcast schedule for the 2026 regular season. With a record 216 games and tentpole events slated for distribution across multiple platforms throughout the regular season, fans will enjoy unparalleled access to WNBA action.
The broadcast schedule represents the tip-off of the WNBA’s new media rights deals which features the renewal of partnerships with The Walt Disney Company (ABC/ESPN), Amazon Prime Video, CBS Sports/Paramount+, and Scripps (ION), new partners NBCUniversal (NBC/Peacock/NBCSN) and USA Sports (USA Network, and the continuation of distribution of games on NBA TV.
“The WNBA is coming off a landmark season in 2025, one that was defined by incredible basketball and countless memorable performances,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “With an incredible 2026 draft and so many notable free agency signings and trades now giving way to the start of the season, the WNBA’s unprecedented lineup of linear and streaming partners will shine a light on must-see matchups, and the remarkable skills the WNBA’s stars provide each time they step on the court.”
Each of the league’s 15 teams will play 44 games in the 2026 regular season, providing fans with a record total of 330 WNBA games in which to see the best players in the world compete at the highest level. A summation of the 216 games available by the league’s distribution partners and information on the WNBA’s tentpole events, is below:
Disney Networks to present 30 games in league’s 30th season: Now in its 30th year of WNBA coverage, Disney Networks will present 30 games and tentpole events across the regular season. ABC’s 13 broadcasts, including the 2026 AT&amp;T WNBA All-Star Game, are tied for the most-ever by the network. ESPN will broadcast 17 games.
As part of WNBA Tip-Off 2026 presented by CarMax, ABC will broadcast an opening weekend doubleheader on May 9, when the Indiana Fever hosts the Dallas Wings (1 p.m. ET), and the defending champion Las Vegas Aces host the Phoenix Mercury in a rematch of the 2025 Finals (3:30 p.m. ET). In addition, nine WNBA games will be featured in ESPN’s new consecutive nine-week primetime block dedicated to women’s sports, Women’s Sports Sundays, tipping off on June 21.
NBC’s Seven Sundays and Peacock Mondays: The WNBA returns to NBC, which broadcast the first-ever WNBA game in 1997. An all-Sunday lineup consists of seven games, featuring Dallas, Indiana, and Las Vegas. Highlighted among the NBC games are two primetime broadcasts: Indiana at Las Vegas on July 12 (9 p.m. ET) and Indiana at the Chicago Sky on August 23 (7 p.m. ET).
In addition to streaming 12 Monday matchups and three weekend games during the regular season, Peacock will stream every game of the WNBA Finals, with each game also telecast on NBC or USA Network.
Prime Video Schedule Includes 31 Games Across Regular Season: Six years after becoming the first women’s professional sports league to have its games streamed on Prime Video, the WNBA’s 30th season will include 30 regular season games on the streaming platform. In addition, Prime Video will, for the sixth consecutive year, exclusively stream the Championship Game of the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Presented by Coinbase (Tuesday, June 30), the culmination of the WNBA’s marquee midseason tournament.
Prime Video Channels will also be the exclusive third-party digital distribution destination for WNBA League Pass, the WNBA’s subscription service for streaming live and on-demand games, in the U.S. and select international markets. 
CBS Sports / Paramount+ Primetime Games: After making history last year by airing the first two primetime WNBA regular-season games on broadcast television, CBS will deliver eight primetime games in 2026. Its complete slate of 20 broadcasts will air on the CBS Television Network and stream on Paramount+.
CBS tips off its coverage with two games on May 23 when Chicago hosts the Minnesota Lynx (1 p.m. ET) and Las Vegas hosts the Los Angeles Sparks (8 p.m. ET). CBS will also air a day/night doubleheader on June 27 when Phoenix visits the Toronto Tempo (2 p.m. ET) and Los Angeles travels to Indiana (8 p.m.).
ION Puts the Spotlight on Friday Night Doubleheaders: Once again setting a standard for weekly coverage and appointment viewing, ION will broadcast the most games across the regular season (50) as part of its “State Farm WNBA Friday Night Spotlight” series. Fans can tune in to ION every Friday night for doubleheaders, bringing a consistent, high-energy schedule to their screens.
USA Network to Provide Second-Most Games: While USA Network’s 48-game slate will be anchored by games on Wednesday nights (28) and Monday nights (11), the network will bookend its coverage with two games featuring the reigning champion Aces – on tip-off weekend, Sunday, May 10, when Las Vegas visits Los Angeles, and on the final day of the regular season, Thursday, September 24, when Las Vegas is at Phoenix.
NBA TV Highlights: In its 24th year of WNBA coverage, NBA TV’s 15-game slate will tip off and wrap by featuring the league’s expansion teams, the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire. As part of WNBA Tip-Off 2026 presented by CarMax, NBA TV will show Portland hosting Chicago on May 9 (9 p.m. ET). On Sept. 24, the final day of the regular season, NBA TV will present the Toronto Tempo at Connecticut (7 p.m. ET).
WNBA Direct to Consumer League Pass Product offers Access to Games Across the League: WNBA League Pass will deliver select live games throughout the season (local blackouts may apply), along with next-day access to every matchup. League Pass games can be streamed via the WNBA App or WNBA.com.
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Fan-Favorites and Defending Champions Dominate National Spotlight: Both teams with the last two consecutive first-round picks, Caitlin Clark/Aliyah Boston-led Fever, and the Paige Bueckers/Azzi Fudd-led Wings will receive significant national exposure, as will the 2024 WNBA champion New York Liberty and the defending 2025 WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces.
<ul>
<li>Indiana: Behind Clark, Boston and Kelsey Mitchell, who combined for eight All-Star selections the past three seasons, all 44 Fever games will be showcased nationally, including appearances on ABC/ESPN, USA, Prime Video, ION, NBC/Peacock, CBS, and NBA TV.</li>
<li>Dallas: After adding No. 1 overall draft pick Fudd and 2025 co-Kia WNBA Defensive Player of the Year Alanna Smith to a lineup featuring 2025 Kia WNBA Rookie of the Year Bueckers and two-time AT&amp;T WNBA All-Star Game MVP Arike Ogunbowale, the Wings will appear in 36 national games.</li>
<li>New York: The Liberty, led by two-time Kia WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart, 2024 Finals MVP Jonquel Jones, four-time All-Star Sabrina Ionescu, and newly acquired three-time All-Star Satou Sabally, will be featured with 35 national games.</li>
<li>Las Vegas: With an eye toward winning the franchise’s fourth WNBA title in five years, the Aces, led by four-time Kia WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, three-time All-WNBA selections Chelsea Gray and Jewell Loyd, and two-time All-WNBA pick Jackie Young, will be highlighted in 33 national games.</li>
</ul>
Key Matchups, Debuts and Rivalries to Watch: Fans can look forward to exciting rivalries and must-see games, including:
<ul>
<li>Aces vs. Mercury: In a rematch of 2025 WNBA Finals opponents, Las Vegas and Phoenix will clash four times with every game broadcast or streamed nationally – May 9 on ABC; June 17 on USA Network; July 11 on Peacock; and on the final day of the regular season, Sept. 24, on USA Network.</li>
<li>Fever vs. Wings: In a matchup that features the last four No. 1 overall draft picks – Indiana’s Boston (2023) and Clark (2024) vs. Dallas’ Bueckers (2025) and Fudd (2026) – all three Fever-Wings games will be available nationally (May 9 on ABC; Aug. 14 on ION; and Aug. 20 on Prime Video).</li>
<li>Dream vs. Sky: Two-time All-Star Angel Reese, recently acquired by the Atlanta Dream in a trade with the Chicago Sky, will lead her new team against Chicago three times, all on national platforms (June 9 on ESPN; July 19 on CBS; and Sept. 19 on Prime Video).</li>
<li>Fever vs. Dream: Indiana will meet the Dream four times – twice on Prime Video (June 4 and June 18), and once each on ABC (June 20) and ESPN (Aug. 16).</li>
<li>Aces vs. Fever: Las Vegas, which defeated Indiana in a memorable five-game semifinals last season, will face the Fever three times, all on a national platform (July 5 on ESPN; July 12 on NBC and Peacock; and Aug. 6 on Prime Video).</li>
<li>Liberty vs. Lynx: New York and Minnesota, which in 2024 met in both the WNBA Finals and the Championship Game of the Commissioner’s Cup presented by Coinbase, will play three times this season, all on a national stage (July 11 on ABC; and July 3 and Sept. 18 on ION).</li>
<li>WNBA Rivals Week presented by Ally: Classic and budding rivalries between teams will come into focus when the second annual WNBA Rivals Week presented by Ally takes place during a seven-day span in August. During that period, marquee matchups will be front and center and bragging rights will be on the line when the league’s network partners shine a special spotlight on WNBA stars and teams. </li>
</ul>
WNBA Rivals Week presented by Ally tips off on Aug. 8 with Las Vegas at Minnesota (CBS; 1 p.m. ET) and Indiana at Chicago (ABC; 3 p.m. ET)
and concludes on Aug. 14 with an ION double header with Indiana hosting Dallas  at 7:30 p.m. ET) and Seattle hosting Portland at 10 p.m. ET).
<ul>
<li>“WNBA Court Origins”: As part of the league’s 30th season celebration, the “WNBA Court Origins” platform features four national broadcasts and streams involving four of the WNBA’s original franchises. The centerpiece of the series is ESPN’s broadcast of New York at Los Angeles on June 21, the date on which those two teams met in the WNBA’s inaugural game in 1997. Additional games include New York at Phoenix on Aug. 1 (ABC), Las Vegas at New York on Aug. 9 (ABC) and Los Angeles at Las Vegas on Sept. 22 (ESPN).</li>
<li>Debuts of Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo: The inaugural games for the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo will be available during WNBA Tip-Off weekend presented by CarMax. Toronto will host the Washington Mystics on May 8 (ION) and Portland will host the Chicago Sky on May 9 (NBA TV).</li>
<li>WNBA Pride presented by Coach: As part of 2026 WNBA Pride presented by Coach, for every free throw made during the 24 designated Pride Games played June 20-27, Coach will donate $100 to Athlete Ally, up to $200,000, to further Athlete Ally’s work around LGBTQIA+ rights.</li>
</ul>
The WNBA’s distribution partners will present a total of 17 games during this span. Coverage tips off on June 20 with three games &#8212; Indiana at Atlanta (ABC; 1 p.m. ET), Seattle at Phoenix (ABC; 3 p.m. ET) and Chicago at Dallas (CBS; 8 p.m. ET).
<ul>
<li>The 2026 Playoffs and Finals: The 2026 WNBA Playoffs presented by Google Pixel will tip off on Sunday, Sept. 27, with first-round action delivered by Disney Networks (two series) and USA Network and Prime Video (one series each). Disney Networks will also provide coverage of one semifinals series, with coverage of the other semifinals provided by NBC, Peacock and NBCSN. All 2026 WNBA Finals games will air on NBC or USA Network and also be streamed on Peacock</li>
</ul>
A synopsis of coverage provided by each of the WNBA’s distribution partners is as follows:
<table style="width: 98.5924%" width="699">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">PLATFORM</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">GAMES</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">HIGHLIGHTS</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">ABC Network</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">13</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">Ties own record-high for over the air broadcast games. ABC will broadcast the 2026 AT&amp;T WNBA All-Star Game and, along with ESPN, will present one Semifinals playoff series.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">ESPN </td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">17</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">17 games on ESPN, 13 on ABC, gives Disney Networks a record 30 games and tentpole events in WNBA&#8217;s 30th season. Nine games to be featured in new, nine-week primetime block dedicated to women’s sports, Women’s Sports Sundays.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">NBC</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">7</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">The WNBA returns to NBC, which broadcast the first-ever WNBA game in 1997. Schedule features seven Sunday broadcasts, including two primetime games.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">Peacock / NBCSN</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">15</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">In addition to streaming 12 Monday matchups during the regular season, Peacock will stream every game of the WNBA Finals, with each game also airing on NBC or USA Network.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">Prime Video</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">30</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">Thursday night destination (26 games). Will exclusively stream Championship Game of WNBA Commissioner&#8217;s Cup presented by Coinbase. Prime Video Channels will also be the exclusive third-party digital distribution destination for WNBA League Pass, the WNBA’s subscription service for streaming live and on-demand games, in the U.S. and select international markets.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">CBS / Paramount+</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">20</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">After making history last year by airing the first two primetime WNBA regular-season games on broadcast television, CBS Sports will have eight such contests among its 20 over-the-air games in 2026, all of which will air on the CBS Television Network and stream on Paramount+</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">ION</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">50</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">All-Friday schedule, weekly pregame studio show, and the most regular-season games of any partner puts the spotlight on ION&#8217;s “WNBA Friday Night Spotlight” series.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">USA Network</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">48</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">New partner USA Sports’ 48-game, regular season slate on USA Network is second largest and features heavy focus on Wednesday nights (28 games) and Monday nights (11 games).</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">NBA TV</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">15</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">In its 24th year of presenting WNBA action, NBA TV will tip off and wrap its slate with action featuring the league’s two newest teams, Portland and Toronto.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 17.9091%" width="107">WNBA League Pass</td>
<td style="width: 8.81512%" width="72">TBD</td>
<td style="width: 89.6552%" width="520">WNBA League Pass will stream select live games (local blackouts may apply) and offer the largest vault of on‑demand games. Through the league’s direct‑to‑consumer service, fans can enjoy enhanced control with multi‑device viewing, live video controls, and home/away feeds where available.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;
In addition, WNBA League Pass will stream select live games (local blackouts may apply) and offer the largest vault of on‑demand games. Through the league’s direct‑to‑consumer service and the introduction of WNBA ID, fans can enjoy an enhanced viewer experience, increased compatibility with multi‑device viewing, and home/away feeds when available. Fans can also take advantage of the WNBA’s “Tap to Watch” feature, which simplifies how they find and access live game telecasts across platforms.
The current U.S. national television and streaming schedules are available <a href="https://www.wnba.com/schedule?season=2026&amp;month=all">here.</a> Information on the Canadian television broadcast and streaming schedule will be released at a later date.
Additional highlights for the schedule of each broadcaster/streamer can be found <a href="https://pr.nba.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/46/2026/04/2026-WNBA-National-Broadcast-Schedule-Information.pdf">here</a>.
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broadcast-schedule-release-2026

WNBA Unveils National Broadcast Schedule for its 30th Regular Season

Power Rankings

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2026 WNBA Power Rankings: Offseason Moves

Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — The party isn’t over for UCLA’s national champions. The Bruins had another big celebration at the <a class="Link AnClick-LinkEnhancement" href="https://apnews.com/article/wnba-draft-0a00d49021a7aca63629b01c36e20d95" data-gtm-enhancement-style="LinkEnhancementA">WNBA draft.</a>
Lauren Betts, Gabriela Jaquez and Kiki Rice were taken with picks Nos. 4-6 on Monday night, barely a week after helping the <a class="Link AnClick-LinkEnhancement" href="https://apnews.com/article/march-madness-ucla-south-carolina-score-1b7d7aa969d6bded7ad857fa1d760e32" data-gtm-enhancement-style="LinkEnhancementA">Bruins win their first NCAA championship.</a> UCLA became the first team to have five first-round selections, and the first with six players selected in one draft.
In a whirlwind stretch where the Bruins were feted from coast to coast, the good times hit their peak at the draft, where the best team this season took its place among the best of all time.
“It’s really hard to sum up because there’s so much,” Jaquez said. “I think that we’re just on a high right now. We just won the national championship. A lot of us have also graduated college, which is a huge step and something to be super proud of, especially at UCLA. And then we got to go to Jimmy Kimmel, a Laker game, Clipper game, dance, have the celebration at Pauley Pavilion. We went on ‘Good Morning America’ this morning. Obviously, a lot of us are here at the draft tonight being drafted. It’s just been a special moment.”
The 6-foot-7 Betts was selected by the Washington Mystics, with Jaquez then taken by the Chicago Sky. The expansion Toronto Tempo made Rice their first draft pick with the No. 6 selection.
With coach Cori Close sitting up front near her players, the Bruins kept having reasons to stand up and cheer. They were going so quickly that after Angela Dugalic was taken at No. 9 to join Betts in Washington, she worried she’d miss witnessing more big moments for her teammates.
Betts said she wasn’t surprised, having watched how hard her teammates worked.
“These are like my sisters, and getting to watch your family do something like that is amazing,” Betts said. “But I mean, this team is just so special. We knew the type of players that we had on the team, and to really just have this night really showcase all of the things that we’ve worked on all season is just amazing.”
UCLA went 37-1, routing South Carolina on April 5 in the title game — with their seniors scoring all of their points in the Final Four — and then made WNBA history when Gianna Kneepkens was drafted by Connecticut with the 15th and final pick of the first round. Close has said she doesn’t care about records, but that changed Monday.
“Well, I mean, I sort of do care about this one actually, because No. 1, it helps us in recruiting. I think we’ve really taken a developmental approach to this and to see it come to fruition the way it has is obviously really gratifying,” she said.
“Just to be a part of an historic night and for them to be so excited for each other, that’s sort of representative of how they’ve been all year long. But it’s a pretty cool record to be a part of.”
UConn had the previous record of four first-round selections — all in the first six picks — in 2002. Sue Bird was No. 1, Swin Cash No. 2, Asjha Jones No. 4 and Tamika Williams No. 6 from a team that went 39-0.
Tennessee, in 1999 and again in 2008, had five players selected in the draft, as did Notre Dame in 2019 and South Carolina in 2023. But those players weren’t all taken in the first round.
“I think it definitely demonstrates that being a selfless team, that maybe giving up individual stats for team success, that you can win with that formula. You can still be successful. You can win at a high level as a team but you can also achieve individual goals,” Rice said.
“We knew we all wanted to go to the WNBA. We all wanted to be pros, but that wasn’t the only focus during the season. It was winning, it was giving to each other, it was how can we be the best team possible. In the process of doing that, we still got the results that we wanted to at the end of the day, and that’s something that is really special.”
Charlisse Leger-Walker was taken by the Sun in the second round, set to remain teammates with Kneepkens.
The Bruins went to dinner together while in New York and were going to spend more time together after the draft. But Kneepkens said they wouldn’t be saying their goodbyes yet.
“Yeah, those girls mean the most to me, and good thing we live in this day and age and we have phones,” she said. “So hopefully we’ll keep in touch, and obviously we’ll see each other around.”
___
AP Basketball Writer Doug Feinberg contributed to this report.

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National Champion UCLA Has Record Night at WNBA Draft 2026

free

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Media Day: Kiki Rice

Free Agency 2026

<div class="_Article__story_1s89h_50">
The following is a press release from the Toronto Tempo:
Multi-Time WNBA All-Defensive Team Selection and 2025 All-Star Signs with Toronto 
TORONTO (April 11, 2026) – Today, the Toronto Tempo announced the team has signed guard Brittney Sykes to a multi-year contract. 
A 2025 WNBA All-Star and one of the league’s most accomplished two-way guards, Sykes brings elite defensive pedigree, postseason experience, and veteran leadership to the Tempo. Originally selected seventh overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft out of Syracuse University, Sykes enters her ninth WNBA season as one of the most respected perimeter defenders in the league.  
“Brittney is an elite competitor who impacts winning on both ends of the floor,” said Monica Wright Rogers, General Manager of the Toronto Tempo. “Her defensive versatility, toughness, and leadership set a standard, and adding a player of her caliber and All-Star experience is a significant step as we continue to build our roster.” 
Sykes owns career averages of 12.3 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game and is widely recognized for taking on the league’s toughest defensive assignments. During the most recent season, she averaged 14.1 points, 3.2 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game, earning 2025 WNBA All-Star honours.  
Defensively, Sykes is a WNBA All-Defensive First Team selection (2021) and has earned All-Defensive Second Team honours in 2020 and 2022, making her a multi-time All-Defensive Team selection. She was also named to the WNBA All-Star Rookie Team in 2017, underscoring her consistent impact throughout her professional career. 
Known for her physical on-ball defense, competitive edge, and ability to guard multiple positions, Sykes adds immediately to the Tempo backcourt on both ends of the floor. 
“I’m excited to join the Toronto Tempo and to be part of what’s being built,” said Sykes. “The vision, the leadership, and the opportunity here really stood out, and I’m ready to get to work.” 
The signing of Sykes marks a major addition for the Tempo as the organization continues to assemble a roster centered on defensive intensity, versatility, and championship habits.  
About Toronto Tempo 
In May 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) announced its expansion into Canada by awarding Toronto an expansion team, the league’s first outside the United States. The new team, owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, will begin play in the 2026 season as the WNBA’s 14th franchise. Sephora Canada and CIBC are the team’s first announced founding partners. Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures and a 30-year veteran of building championship-caliber teams, is also Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors and Chairman Emeritus of Maple Leaf Sports &amp; Entertainment, which owns the NBA’s Toronto Raptors, NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs, MLS’ Toronto FC and other professional sports franchises. Under his leadership, the Raptors won their first NBA championship in 2019.
</div>
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Toronto Tempo Sign Brittney Sykes to Multi-Year Contract

<div class="_Article__story_1s89h_50">
The following is a press release from the Toronto Tempo:
Proven scorer and veteran guard adds shot-making and playmaking to Toronto roster 
TORONTO [April 11, 2026] – Today, the Toronto Tempo announced the team has signed guard Marina Mabrey to a multi-year contract. Mabrey was originally selected by Toronto as part of the 2026 WNBA Expansion Draft presented by Instacart. 
A dynamic scorer and confident shot-maker with seven seasons of WNBA experience, Mabrey brings spacing, toughness, and offensive versatility to the Tempo backcourt. Selected 19th overall in the 2019 WNBA Draft out of the University of Notre Dame, she has established herself as a reliable perimeter threat and competitive presence throughout her professional career.  
“Marina plays with a level of confidence and edge that stands out,” said Monica Wright Rogers, General Manager, Toronto Tempo. “She’s a player who isn’t afraid of big moments, can create offense in a variety of ways, and brings a strong competitive presence every game. Identifying her in the Expansion Draft and now officially welcoming her to Toronto is an exciting step for our organization.” 
Mabrey owns career averages of 12.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, and is known for her ability to stretch the floor, score off the dribble, and play with pace. During the most recent season, she averaged 12.5 points per game, while also contributing as a secondary playmaker and physical perimeter defender. 
A steady presence in the backcourt, Mabrey has built a reputation as a player who communicates on the floor and brings consistent energy on both ends.  
“I’m excited for the opportunity to be part of the Toronto Tempo and this new chapter,” said Mabrey. “Being selected in the Expansion Draft and now officially joining this group means a lot, and I’m looking forward to growing with this team and this city.” 
The signing of Mabrey represents another key step in assembling a balanced, versatile roster as the Tempo continue preparations for the upcoming season.  
About Toronto Tempo 
In May 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) announced its expansion into Canada by awarding Toronto an expansion team, the league’s first outside the United States. The new team, owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, will begin play in the 2026 season as the WNBA’s 14th franchise. Sephora Canada and CIBC are the team’s first announced founding partners. Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures and a 30-year veteran of building championship-caliber teams, is also Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors and Chairman Emeritus of Maple Leaf Sports &amp; Entertainment, which owns the NBA’s Toronto Raptors, NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs, MLS’ Toronto FC and other professional sports franchises. Under his leadership, the Raptors won their first NBA championship in 2019. 
</div>

toronto-tempo-sign-marina-mabrey

Toronto Tempo Sign Marina Mabrey to Multi-Year Contract

Editorial

The WNBA’s next two franchises, the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, finally have a roster. 
Both squads participated in a two-round expansion draft on April 3, 2026, picking players from each team in the WNBA except for the Chicago Sky. The Sky, prior to the draft, traded its 17th overall pick to the Fire in exchange for the 21st overall pick, and to prevent the Fire from taking anyone from its team. 
Chicago also sent its 26th overall pick to the Tempo in exchange for Toronto not selecting anyone from its roster. 
That said, every other team was fair game for poaching. Let’s take a look at some of the key players added by both franchises, set to kick off their respective seasons in Season 30.
<hr />
<h2>Toronto Tempo roster:</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-258017" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_TORONTO_LISTv7-1.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="875" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_TORONTO_LISTv7-1.jpg 1080w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_TORONTO_LISTv7-1-240x300.jpg 240w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_TORONTO_LISTv7-1-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_TORONTO_LISTv7-1-768x960.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
A huge takeaway from this initial roster is that the Tempo wanted to take shooting and guard depth seriously. Marina Mabrey’s name obviously jumps off the page on that front, although she had a slump-year (27-percent 3PT shooting) with the Connecticut Sun in 2025. However, it’s clear the Tempo value her veteran presence and competitiveness, with Tempo general manager Monica Wright Rogers <a href="https://x.com/chelsealeite/status/2040162676702126322?s=20">telling reporters</a> following the expansion draft that Mabrey “&#8230;has something you can’t coach, a fierce, competitive nature. That will resonate with this city.”
Aaliyah Nye, who won a championship in her rookie season with the Las Vegas Aces last year, is another sharp-shooter that should be able to contribute immediately with head coach Sandy Brondello likely seeking to surround the teams’ bigs with as much shooting as possible. She averaged just 31.4 percent from three point range, but was coming off a season with the Alabama Crimson Tide where <a href="https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/aaliyah-nye-1.html">she shot</a> 41.8 percent from long range over four seasons. 
Other players of note from this initial roster include Nyara Sabally, a former member of Brondello’s New York Liberty team, and Julie Allemand, who had a nice bounceback season with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2025. 
Sabally has dealt with injury woes in recent years, but when she’s on the floor, she can make a huge impact on the glass. Her contributions to the Liberty’s championship run, and especially in its Finals against the Minnesota Lynx, couldn’t be ignored by Brondello or the Tempo. She averaged 5.4 points per game along with 4.5 rebounds and one block in 17 games played. 
As for Allemand, she’s a Belgian star set to gain another year with major minutes with the Tempo. Her work as a distributor for Los Angeles clearly didn’t go unnoticed by the Tempo’s scouting team, and she’s a great compliment to players like Sabally, Mabrey, and María Conde (assuming the Spanish forward comes over to the WNBA this season). With the Sparks in 2025, she averaged just 5.4 points per game but a solid five assists in 28.3 minutes per game. 
One thing that could really tie this initial roster together is the team honing in on a big in this year’s college draft. The Tempo are selecting 6th overall in this year’s draft, while the Fire select 7th since they picked first in the expansion draft. That could give them a shot at a player like Lauren Betts, who would be an unbelievably great fit with a roster chock-full of great facilitators. 
A worthwhile nugget to mention regarding this initial roster: according to the Tempo’s press release on these selections, the team has taken seven international players, which the <a href="https://tempo.wnba.com/news/toronto-tempo-select-11-players-in-2026-tempo-expansion-draft">team says</a>, “brings a blend of championship experience, international competition at the highest level, and positional versatility as the Tempo begin building their identity in the WNBA.”
<hr />
<h2>Portland Fire roster:</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-258016" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_PORTLAND_LIST.png" alt="" width="700" height="875" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_PORTLAND_LIST.png 1080w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_PORTLAND_LIST-240x300.png 240w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_PORTLAND_LIST-819x1024.png 819w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/Expansion-Draft-Results-4x5_PORTLAND_LIST-768x960.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /> 
Bridget Carleton, the former Minnesota Lynx forward, was the Fire’s first overall pick and its selection from a list of available unrestricted free agents available in this expansion draft. Each team was allowed to select one UFA, with Mabrey being the Tempo’s pick from that pool. 
Carleton, who was an integral part of Minnesota’s offense from the three point line and as a defender in the paint, could’ve been a fitting addition to Toronto’s roster considering she’s an Ontario native. But, the veteran lands with Portland, providing immediate starting power in the Fire’s frontcourt. She averaged 6.5 points per game along with 3.6 rebounds and two assists, and shot a clean 37.3 percent from three-point range. 
A somewhat surprising name on this draft list is Carla Leite. The former Golden State Valkyries guard had become a fan-favorite in her rookie season with the squad, averaging 7.2 points per game along with two assists and 1.3 rebounds, providing a pop defensively whenever she was on the floor. Her pick-and-roll proficiency made her a huge asset to the Valkyries offense, and especially their bigs. Her not being protected by Golden State could be Portland’s gain. 
With Carleton in the fold in addition to Emily Engstler and Haley Jones, Leite could emerge as one of next season’s best floor generals if utilized correctly. 
Two underrated picks for Portland are Sarah Ashlee Barker and Maya Caldwell. Caldwell, who spent last year with the Atlanta Dream, is a solid three-point shooter and a great cutter to pair with guards like Sug Sutton and Leite who are more focused on facilitating. 
Her addition to this team brings shooting and rim pressure, taking some of that load off the shoulders of the teams’ talented bigs. She averaged 5.4 points per game in addition to 3.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and almost one steal in 18.5 minutes per game. 
As for Barker, and similarly to Nye with the Tempo, she has an opportunity to show off her strengths with potentially larger minutes with the Fire. The former Sparks guard got plenty of opportunities to flex her defensive skills in 2025, and she was also a decent scorer for stretches.
However, it was always going to be tough to find her a role behind Kelsey Plum and Allemand. She averaged just 3.1 points per game along with 1.9 rebounds and almost one assist, although she only averaged 14.1 minutes per game as a rookie. 
This Fire roster is emphasizing depth at the forward position, as well as guards who can bring out the best in those front court pieces. Portland general manager Vanja Černivec told reporters following the draft that the team prioritized “great teammates who will help us recruit players in free agency.” 
 
“We want to play team-oriented basketball,” she added. 
Carleton, Leite, Caldwell, and Sutton all fit that bill right off the bat. We’ll see if Černivec’s focus on team &#8211; and fan &#8211; favorites with talent to boot works as they look ahead to the college draft and a tumultuous free agency period.

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Rapid Reactions: WNBA Expansion Draft 2026

Expansion Draft

wnba-expansion-draft-recap

WNBA Expansion Draft Recap

The WNBA’s new expansion team, the Tempo, has made one thing clear: They aren’t just Toronto’s team, they’re Canada’s team. A new era of women’s basketball across the northern border is set to tip off its inaugural season on May 8 against the Washington Mystics. And with the Tempo ushering in fresh WNBA fans, it feels ideal to remind everyone of the long line of Canadians who have hooped in the league since its early years. 
We know hockey runs through the country’s veins, but women’s pro hoops have entered the chat. Players like Kia Nurse, Bridget Carleton, Laeticia Amihere, and Aaliyah Edwards are actively repping their home turf in the WNBA. But get to know the Canucks who paved the way. 
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: center">Kelly Boucher (Sudbury, ON)</h2>
<div id="attachment_257970" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-257970" class="wp-image-257970" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1367205-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="755" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1367205-scaled.jpg 1695w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1367205-199x300.jpg 199w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1367205-678x1024.jpg 678w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1367205-768x1160.jpg 768w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1367205-1017x1536.jpg 1017w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1367205-1356x2048.jpg 1356w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" />Kelly Boucher #13 of Canada cheers on the sideline during the game against France at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics</div>
In the WNBA’s inaugural season, 15 international players dotted rosters around the league, but it wasn’t until the following season in 1998 that the first Canadian suited up. Boucher signed with the Charlotte Sting after a week-long open tryout. She bested over 350 WNBA hopefuls, through what she described as “the most intense, chaotic, grueling, difficult experience.” 
Her dream of playing pro hoops close to home became a reality. In a <a href="https://toronto.citynews.ca/2021/05/14/meet-kelly-boucher-the-canadian-who-broke-the-wnba-barrier/">2021 interview</a>, Boucher recalls having visa issues because it was so unheard of for Canadians to go to the States to play hoops. “They didn’t even know what category of visa to give us,” she said then.
Boucher had competed in two Olympics for Canada and a World Championship, but in her lone WNBA season, she grew accustomed to playing in front of a roaring crowd of 25,000 at the Charlotte Coliseum. Playing in Madison Square Garden, though, was her “pinch-me” moment. “That was a highlight…you walk in there, and you can just smell the history,” she reminisced. “Patrick Ewing was there, chatting with him on the side, taking pictures with people. You’re supposed to be warming up, of course…but you just look around, and I think, ‘We’re playing in Madison Square Garden.’”
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: center">Tammy Sutton-Brown (Markham, ON)</h2>
<div id="attachment_257971" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-257971" class="wp-image-257971" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-599384-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="771" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-599384-scaled.jpg 1661w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-599384-195x300.jpg 195w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-599384-664x1024.jpg 664w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-599384-768x1184.jpg 768w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-599384-997x1536.jpg 997w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-599384-1329x2048.jpg 1329w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" />Tammy Sutton-Brown #55 of the Charlotte Sting looking to pass the ball against the New York Liberty</div>
Twelve years, two All-Star selections, a WNBA championship — Sutton-Brown’s 388 games played are the most by a Canadian to date. 
The Markham, Ontario native decided to come to the States first to play under iconic coach C. Vivian Stringer at Rutgers in 1997. As a freshman, she led the Scarlet Knights in field goal percentage and blocks. As a junior, she led them to their first-ever Final Four appearance. It was clear that her efficiency at the rim was going to translate to the league. She was then drafted as the 18th pick to the Charlotte Sting in 2001.
The six-foot-four Sutton-Brown received her first All-Star nod after averaging 11.9 points and 6 rebounds in only her second season with the Sting. She was the first Canadian to be named to an All-Star team. Once the Sting folded in 2006, she was signed as a free agent by the Indiana Fever, earning her second All-Star spot that same year. She became a key member of the Fever alongside Tamika Catchings and Katie Douglas, and was the starting center for the 2012 championship team. Sutton-Brown is fifth in franchise history in total rebounds, and her<a href="https://www.basketball-reference.com/wnba/teams/IND/players.html"> 267 franchise blocks</a> rank behind only Catchings.
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: center">Stacey Dales (Collingwood, ON)</h2>
<div id="attachment_257972" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-257972" class="wp-image-257972" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-730660-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="762" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-730660-scaled.jpg 1680w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-730660-197x300.jpg 197w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-730660-672x1024.jpg 672w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-730660-768x1170.jpg 768w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-730660-1008x1536.jpg 1008w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-730660-1344x2048.jpg 1344w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" />Stacey Dales-Schuman #21 of the Washington Mystics looks to pass during the game against the Indiana Fever</div>
The six-foot sharpshooter is the highest Canadian to be drafted to the WNBA at third overall in 2002—just behind Sue Bird and Swin Cash. Dales was coming off a stellar college career. She had two All-American seasons at Oklahoma and was a two-time Big 12 Conference Player of the Year. In her senior season, her 17 points per-game led the Sooners to their one and only National Championship game. 
In Dales’ rookie season with the Washington Mystics, she made an immediate impact, starting 28 of 31 games. She was second on the team in scoring (9.8 ppg) and even earned an All-Star spot. She played five seasons in the league and officially retired in 2007 after two seasons with the Chicago Sky. 
<hr />
<h2 style="text-align: center">Natalie Achonwa (Guelph, ON)</h2>
<div id="attachment_257973" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-257973" class="wp-image-257973" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1427576372-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="750" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1427576372-scaled.jpg 1707w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1427576372-200x300.jpg 200w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1427576372-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1427576372-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1427576372-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-1427576372-1365x2048.jpg 1365w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" />Natalie Achonwa of Canada shoots during the 2022 FIBA Women&#8217;s Basketball World Cup Group B match between Australia and Canada</div>
Before dominating the paint in the WNBA, Achonwa made history in college and on the world stage. At 16, she became the youngest player ever to play for the Canadian national team in 2009. Then, she was the first international player to suit up for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish; in her tenure there from 2010 to 2014, she made four Final Fours and three title games. 
In 2014, Achonwa was drafted ninth overall by the Indiana Fever and was named to the WNBA All-Rookie team. The six-foot-three power forward played 8 total seasons with both the Fever and Minnesota Lynx.
Achonwa appeared in her fourth Olympic Games for Team Canada in 2024, the most by a Canadian basketball player ever.  
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<h2 style="text-align: center">Kayla Alexander (Milton, ON) </h2>
<div id="attachment_257975" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-257975" class="wp-image-257975" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-450516148-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="753" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-450516148-scaled.jpg 1700w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-450516148-199x300.jpg 199w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-450516148-680x1024.jpg 680w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-450516148-768x1156.jpg 768w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-450516148-1020x1536.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2026/04/GettyImages-450516148-1360x2048.jpg 1360w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" />Kayla Alexander #40 of the San Antonio Stars attempts a free throw against the Phoenix Mercury</div>
When the San Antonio Silver Stars drafted Alexander with their 8th pick in 2013, they knew they were getting an athletic big who was a force at the rim on both ends of the court. Alexander hailed from Syracuse University and completed her collegiate career as one of the best ever to don the Orange. When she left, she was the all-time leader in points, blocks, field goals, free throws made, free throws attempted, and games played.
She played five of her eight seasons in San Antonio, with stops in Indiana, Chicago, and Minnesota.  Even after back-to-back knee surgeries in 2018 and 2019, she didn’t give up on her WNBA or Olympic dreams. “I feel like sports are a great setup for life,” she <a href="https://www.syracuse.com/orangewomen/2021/07/perseverance-pays-off-former-syracuse-player-kayla-alexander-to-represent-canada-in-olympics.html?outputType=amp">said</a>. “Life isn’t perfect. Things aren’t always going to go according to your plan, but you have to find the ways to persevere and push through and find the positive in everything, or try to.” She went on to compete for Team Canada at the 2021 and 2024 Olympic Games. 
Jordan Robinson is a freelance journalist, author, host, analyst, and content creator based in Los Angeles, CA and writes columns on <a href="http://wnba.com/">WNBA.com</a> throughout the season. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the WNBA or its teams.

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