WNBA season set to start May 8 despite impasse

Field Level Media|published: Wed 21st January, 17:28 2026

Oct 17, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Las Vegas Aces center A'Ja Wilson (22) celebrates during the 2025 WNBA Championship parade at Toshiba Plaza. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

The WNBA plans to begin the 2026 season on May 8 despite the fact the league and players' union remain at an impasse on agreeing to a new collective bargaining agreement.

There is currently a moratorium in place pertaining to league business like free agency. The league also hasn't been able to hold an expansion draft for the new franchises in Portland and Toronto.

Still, season No. 30 will open with three games on Friday, May 8, the league announced Wednesday. One day later, four-time MVP A'ja Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces will open their season against the visiting Phoenix Mercury. Las Vegas has won three of the last four WNBA crowns, including the 2025 title.

The Toronto Tempo are slated to play their first game at home on May 8 against the Washington Mystics. One night later, the Portland Fire will host the Chicago Sky.

Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever host Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings in their respective openers on May 9.

The playoffs are set to begin on Sept. 27.

"As we prepare to tip off the WNBA's historic 30th season, this schedule reflects both how far the league has come and the momentum that continues to drive us forward," WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said. "From welcoming two new organizations in Toronto and Portland, to honoring our history with marquee matchups that connect the league's first game to today's stars, the 2026 season will celebrate the WNBA's past, present, and future. With a record number of games, growing global reach, and unprecedented momentum, this milestone season will help define the next chapter of the WNBA."

On June 21, the Los Angeles Sparks host the New York Liberty in a matchup of the two teams that played in the inaugural WNBA game.

The WNBA All-Star Game is set for July 25 in Chicago. A 3-point contest and skills challenge will be held one day earlier.

The Commissioner's Cup title game is slated for June 30.

The WNBA will go on hiatus for the basketball World Cup from Aug. 31-Sept. 16.

Training camp is scheduled to open April 19, just six days after the WNBA Draft.

--Field Level Media

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