WNBA — 2026 league hub.
Last updated:
Updated May 26, 2026 · DynastyDaily Editorial
Direct answer
The WNBA in 2026 features 17 teams after Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire join the Golden State Valkyries (2025) as expansion clubs. The season runs May-October with each team playing 44 games before an 8-team playoff. A'ja Wilson chases a 3rd MVP, Caitlin Clark enters year 3, and Napheesa Collier defends her 2025 Finals MVP. Games stream on ESPN, Ion, CBS Sports, NBA TV, Amazon Prime, and WNBA League Pass.
WNBA 2026 — at a glance
| Detail | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Teams | 15 (Golden State Valkyries joined 2025; Toronto Tempo + Portland Fire join 2026) |
| Regular season games | 44 per team |
| Season window | May - October |
| Playoffs format | 8 teams · best-of-3 first round · best-of-5 thereafter |
| Finals MVP (2025) | Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx) |
| 2026 marquee storylines | Caitlin Clark Year 3 · A'ja Wilson chasing 3rd MVP · expansion teams |
| Where to watch | ESPN, Ion, CBS Sports, NBA TV, Amazon Prime, WNBA League Pass |
WNBA stars to know in 2026
- A'ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces) — 3× MVP, perennial best player in the league
- Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever) — Generational scorer, year 3
- Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx) — 2025 Finals MVP, do-it-all forward
- Breanna Stewart (NY Liberty) — 2× MVP, 2× Olympic gold
- Angel Reese (Chicago Sky) — All-rookie rebounding machine
- Sabrina Ionescu (NY Liberty) — Elite playmaker + scorer
- Paige Bueckers (Dallas Wings) — 2025 #1 pick, expected ROY contender
2026 WNBA expansion
The WNBA reached 15 teams in 2025 with the Golden State Valkyries. The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire join in 2026, bringing the league to 17 teams. Two more cities (Cleveland, Detroit, Houston, Philly, Nashville) are in contention for future expansion slots.
Frequently asked
How many WNBA teams are there in 2026?
The WNBA has 15 teams in 2025 (Golden State Valkyries joined that year) and expands to 17 in 2026 with the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire.
Who is the current WNBA Finals MVP?
Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx won the 2025 Finals MVP. The 2026 winner will be determined at the end of the postseason in October 2026.
Where can I watch WNBA games?
WNBA games air on ESPN, Ion, CBS Sports Network, NBA TV, and Amazon Prime Video. WNBA League Pass ($24.99/season) streams every game including international markets.
How long is the WNBA season?
The WNBA regular season runs from May to October, with 44 games per team. Playoffs follow with 8 teams (best-of-3 first round, best-of-5 thereafter), concluding the WNBA Finals in late October.