Leslie threw down the WNBA’s first in‑game dunk on July 30, 2002, in a matchup between the Los Angeles Sparks and the Miami Sol. 

First WNBA Dunk: Lisa Leslie

Jackson made history as the first international WNBA MVP in 2003, starring for the Seattle Storm during her award‑winning season.

First International MVP: Lauren Jackson

Brunson became the first player in league history to win five championships, earning one with the Sacramento Monarchs (2005) and four with the Minnesota Lynx (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017).

First to Five Rings: Rebekkah Brunson

Delle Donne completed the league’s first‑ever 50‑40‑90 shooting season on September 8, 2019, during a Washington Mystics vs. Chicago Sky matchup.

First WNBA Player to Join Exclusive 50-40-90 Club: Elena Delle Donne

Taurasi hit her 10,000‑point milestone from the three‑point line on August 3, 2023, in a Phoenix Mercury 91–71 win over the Atlanta Dream.

First Player to Reach 10k Career Points: Diana Taurasi

Ionescu faced Stephen Curry in the historic NBA vs. WNBA 3‑Point Challenge on February 17, 2024 at All‑Star Weekend in Indianapolis, scoring 26 points in the duel.

First WNBA Player to go head-to-head with NBA player at 3PT contest: Sabrina Ionescu

Clark recorded the first triple‑double by a rookie on July 6, 2024, posting 19‑12‑13 in an 83–78 win vs. the New York Liberty.

First Rookie to Record a Triple-Double: Caitlin Clark

Wilson earned her record‑breaking fourth MVP award on September 21, 2025, after a dominant season with the Las Vegas Aces.

First 4x MVP: A’ja Wilson

Photo Gallery

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		<h2>Gallery Block</h2>
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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

Partnerships

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NEW YORK CITY / LOS ANGELES—May 6, 2026—The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and Skechers today announced a multiyear deal that will position the global footwear leader as an Official Partner with the league. Skechers continues its ongoing global support for women’s sports, and will be a fixture throughout the league as the WNBA celebrates its milestone 30th season.
“We’re excited to welcome Skechers to the WNBA family at a moment of extraordinary momentum for our league,” said WNBA Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison. “This partnership reflects the growing demand from global brands to connect with WNBA fans worldwide. We look forward to collaborating with Skechers to create unique fan experiences, deepen engagement, and elevate the players who power our league.”  
“Partnering with the WNBA illustrates our long-term commitment to promoting women’s basketball and elevating the athletes who are enthusiastic about the game at every level,” said David Weinberg, Chief Operating Officer at Skechers. “Skechers has been part of the basketball community for several seasons, and now fans will see our innovative footwear take center stage in the WNBA for the first time. We look forward to leveraging the league’s exploding popularity to help grow the sport while introducing our signature Comfort That Performs to even more athletes around the world.”
In 2024, forward Rickea Jackson, who was recently traded to the Chicago Sky, became the first athlete to play in Skechers Basketball footwear in the WNBA. Skechers expanded its roster in 2025, welcoming Washington Mystics forward Kiki Iriafen and shooting guard Jackie Young—who won her third WNBA championship with the Las Vegas Aces last season.
“For me, it’s all about staying comfortable and locked in, and Skechers gave me that all the way through our championship run last season,” said Jackie Young. “This season is going to be special, and it feels like the perfect time for Skechers to make it official. I can’t wait to see more players in the S on the court soon.”
“The Skechers team constantly checks in with me for feedback and ideas, so they’ve been a great partner for me as a player and I know they’ll be a fantastic partner for the league,” said Rickea Jackson. “And of course I love the shoes—they look and feel great on the court. It is only a matter of time until more players will start to catch on.”
“When Skechers signed me ahead of the draft last year, I knew this was a brand that believed not only in me, but in our sport overall,” added Kiki Iriafen. “From design to promotion, they truly prioritize the needs of female athletes and now that they’re partnered with the W, the possibilities are limitless.”
Skechers redefines basketball footwear with its innovative collection engineered for athletes of all skill levels. The lineup includes the fast and responsive SKX NEXUS, the flexible SKX Full-Court Press™, the lightweight SKX Resagrip® featuring advanced cushioning, and the SKX Reign™ for exceptional elevation and intense traction, amongst others. With Comfort That Performs® key to the entire range, Skechers empowers players to focus on their game and reach new heights every time they step onto the court.
The full Skechers Basketball collection is available at Skechers retail stores and <a href="http://www.skechers.com/">skechers.com</a>, as well as specialty athletic shops around the world. Fans can get behind-the-scenes access to Skechers Basketball product launches and more by following @skechersbasketball on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/skechersbasketball/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@skechersbasketball">TikTok</a>.

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WNBA and Skechers Announce Multiyear Partnership

GM Survey

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– Dallas Wings’ Paige Bueckers Picked as First Player GMs Would Sign if Starting a Team Today –  
– Wings Chosen as Most Improved Team and Most Fun to Watch – 
– Aces vs. New York Liberty Selected as Most Likely Championship Game of 
WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Presented by Coinbase – 
NEW YORK, May 5, 2026 – Reigning Kia WNBA Most Valuable Player A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces was selected as the player most likely to win the MVP honor this season, according to the 2026 WNBA GM Survey, which asked the WNBA’s 15 general managers to assess the best teams, players, coaches, offseason moves and more, prior to tip-off of the league’s 30th season. The Wilson-led Aces were also named the favorite to repeat as WNBA champions. 
WNBA Tip-Off 2026 presented by CarMax begins on Friday, May 8 with three games on ION, highlighted by the inaugural game for the Toronto Tempo, which hosts the Washington Mystics (7:30 p.m. ET). The action continues Saturday with an ABC doubleheader featuring the Dallas Wings visiting the Indiana Fever (1 p.m. ET) and the Aces hosting the Phoenix Mercury in a rematch of the 2025 WNBA Finals (3:30 p.m. ET).
The complete results of the 21st WNBA GM Survey were posted today at  <a href="https://wnba.com/news/2026-wnba-gm-survey-release">WNBA.com</a>. The GMs responded to 42 questions and were not permitted to vote for their own team or personnel. Percentages are based on the pool of respondents to that particular question.
Wilson, who last season led Las Vegas to its third WNBA championship in four years while earning a record fourth Kia WNBA MVP Award, received 60 percent of the MVP votes from the GMs. Two-time Kia WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty was next with 27 percent, followed by the Fever’s Caitlin Clark and the Atlanta Dream’s Allisha Gray with 7 percent each.
Wilson was also named the league’s best leader (79 percent), best interior defender (73 percent), best overall defensive player (53 percent) and the player who forces opposing coaches to make the most adjustments (60 percent). In addition, she shared the top spot with Aces teammate Chelsea Gray as the player the general managers would trust most to take a game-winning shot (36 percent each).
Las Vegas’ Gray was the choice as the league’s best point guard (73 percent), followed by Clark (20 percent). In addition, the general managers viewed Gray as the best passer (93 percent), the player with the best basketball IQ (93 percent) and the active player who will make the best head coach someday (50 percent).
The Aces received 40 percent of the votes as the team most likely to win the WNBA championship. New York finished second (33 percent), and Atlanta ranked third (27 percent).
The GMs also chose the Aces vs. the Liberty as the most likely matchup (43 percent) in the Championship Game of the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup presented by Coinbase. Las Vegas vs. Atlanta was viewed as the second most likely matchup (29 percent).
Reigning Kia WNBA Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers of Dallas received 33 percent of the votes as the player the GMs would choose to build around if starting a franchise today. Clark and Wilson tied for second (20 percent each).
The Wings, who selected Azzi Fudd with the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft 2026 presented by State Street Investment Management SPY and signed 2025 Kia WNBA Co-Defensive Player of the Year Alanna Smith as a free agent, were selected as the most improved team (67 percent), followed by the Chicago Sky (20 percent) and the Los Angeles Sparks (13 percent). In addition, Dallas was viewed as the team that will be the most fun to watch (36 percent), followed by Atlanta and Indiana (29 percent each).
Two-time All-Star Angel Reese, acquired by the Dream in an offseason trade with Chicago, and 2025 All-Star Gabby Williams, who signed with the Golden State Valkyries as a free agent, shared the top spot as the player acquisition that will make the biggest impact this season. Reese and Williams each received 27 percent of the vote, followed by 10-time All-Star Nneka Ogwumike, who returned to the Sparks as a free agent (20 percent).
Olivia Miles, who was selected by the Minnesota Lynx as the No. 2 overall pick in the WNBA Draft 2026 presented by State Street Investment Management SPY, received 73 percent of the vote as the player most likely to win the Kia WNBA Rookie of the Year Award, followed by Fudd (20 percent). No. 3 overall pick Awa Fam of the Seattle Storm was viewed as the rookie who will be the best player in five years (67 percent), and Miles finished second (33 percent).
Minnesota head coach Cheryl Reeve was the top choice in multiple coaching categories. Reeve earned 53 percent of the votes as the league’s best head coach, topping Las Vegas’ Becky Hammon (40 percent). Reeve also was viewed as the coach who makes the best in-game adjustments (50 percent), with Hammon in second place (36 percent). Hammon was named the head coach who is the best manager/motivator of people (43 percent), followed by Golden State’s Natalie Nakase, Indiana’s Stephanie White and Phoenix’s Nate Tibbetts (14 percent each).
Among the other highlights from the 2026 WNBA GM Survey:
<ul>
<li>The signing of 2023 All-Star and Kia WNBA Most Improved Player Satou Sabally with New York as a free agent was seen as the most surprising move of the offseason (23 percent), followed by Atlanta’s acquisition of Reese and Dallas’ signing of Smith (15 percent each).</li>
<li>Five-time All-Star Jonquel Jones of New York was voted as the league’s best international player (33 percent), followed by Janelle Salaün, a 2025 WNBA All-Rookie Team selection with Golden State (20 percent).</li>
<li>France was the unanimous choice as the country (outside of the U.S.) producing the best WNBA talent right now.</li>
<li>Dallas and Seattle shared the top spot as the team with the most promising young core of talent (31 percent each), followed by Washington (23 percent).</li>
<li>Sue Bird, a 13-time All-Star, received the most votes as the retired player not coaching in the WNBA who should be (36 percent). Seimone Augustus, Candace Parker and Katie Smith tied for second (14 percent each).</li>
<li>Golden State was voted as having the best home-court advantage (64 percent). Indiana ranked second (21 percent), and New York was third (14 percent).</li>
<li>The GMs viewed the implementation of developmental players onto rosters as the change to league operations in 2026 that will require the biggest adjustment (42 percent), followed by the addition of the Tempo and Portland Fire as expansion teams (25 percent).</li>
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2026 WNBA GM Survey: Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson Favored For Kia WNBA MVP; Aces Voted to Win League Championship

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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%
<hr />
<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%
<hr />
<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%
<hr />
<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%
<hr />
<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

Press Release

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NEW YORK, May 5, 2026 – WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert issued the following statement regarding Tina Charles’ retirement announcement:
“Tina Charles has defined excellence and consistency throughout one of the most remarkable careers in WNBA history. From earning unanimous Rookie of the Year honors to being named league MVP, to becoming the WNBA’s all-time leading rebounder and second all-time leading scorer, Tina’s impact on the game will be felt for generations to come.
“Beyond her extraordinary accomplishments, Tina has represented the very best of the WNBA throughout her career. Through her leadership and dedication to giving back – including her work with her Hopey’s Heart Foundation – she has made a meaningful impact far beyond the game, earning the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award twice. On behalf of the WNBA, I want to thank Tina for her lasting contributions to the league and the sport of basketball. Her legacy will be defined not only by her excellence on the court, but by the standard she set as a leader, a teammate, and a champion for the communities she touched.”
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WNBA Statement on Tina Charles' Retirement

Canada

– Broadcast and Streaming Agreement Makes 
Bell Media the Official Media Partner of the Toronto Tempo – 
– TSN to Broadcast and Stream Toronto Tempo Games, Regular Season WNBA Games, 
Plus WNBA All-Star, Playoffs and Finals, and Draft – 
– CTV and Crave to Simulcast Select Toronto Tempo Games Throughout the Season – 
– Agreement Coincides with Milestone 30th Season, Canadian Expansion, and 
First Year of Transformational Collective Bargaining Agreement – 
TORONTO, May 5, 2026 – The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and Bell Media today announced a historic multiyear agreement to broadcast and stream WNBA games in Canada beginning with the upcoming 2026 season.
As part of the agreement, Bell Media becomes the official media partner of the Toronto Tempo, as TSN delivers comprehensive live coverage of the team, additional regular-season matchups from across the league, and the vast majority of marquee events such as WNBA All-Star, WNBA Playoffs, WNBA Finals, and WNBA Draft.  A select number of Tempo games will also air on CTV and stream on Crave through the live CTV channel, with the schedule to be announced later this season.
The WNBA schedule on TSN is available <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/wnba/article/2025-wnba-on-tsn-schedule-2/">here</a>.
“The momentum around the WNBA in Canada is at an all-time high, and this partnership represents an important step in providing fans in Canada with unprecedented access to their favorite teams and players at a historic time of the first ever Canadian team in the WNBA,” said WNBA Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison.  “TSN shares our commitment to providing fans with best-in-class coverage that will elevate the WNBA and women’s basketball in Canada.”
“With a generation of exciting new stars, the growth of the WNBA continues to be simply phenomenal. It’s an honour for TSN to showcase the country’s first WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo, for years to come,” said Shawn Redmond, Vice President, Bell Media Sports.  “As the home of basketball in Canada with a wide-ranging portfolio of women’s sports coverage, this partnership is an ideal fit for the TSN audience.  We can’t wait to shine the national spotlight on the incredible athletes taking flight in the WNBA.”
Canadian viewership of the 2026 WNBA Draft (April 13) on TSN was up 172% vs. the 2025 WNBA Draft.  The WNBA has hosted two sold-out preseason games (Toronto, 2023 and Edmonton, 2024) and hosted the first regular season game held outside of the U.S. (Vancouver, 2025).  Canada is home to the first WNBA team based outside the U.S., the Toronto Tempo, tipping on Friday, May 8th.  Prime Video’s slate of Tempo and additional WNBA games available in Canada were previously announced.
Fans of the WNBA in Canada can follow the league’s first international social media accounts (@WNBACanada) on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wnbacanada">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wnbacanada">Instagram</a>.  Official NBA and WNBA merchandise is available in Canada at <a href="https://www.nbastore.ca/en/">NBAStore.ca</a>.
The WNBA’s 30th regular season will tip off on Friday, May 8 and conclude on Thursday, September 24, with each team playing 44 games. The WNBA Playoffs presented by Google will begin on Sunday, September 27, culminating with the best-of-seven WNBA Finals.
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WNBA Announces Historic Canadian Media Rights Agreement with Bell Media

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Women's History Month: She Did it First

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Get a courtside seat. Every week. With WNBA League Pass, watch live games across the league.

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