With the Women’s March Madness tournament wrapping up in early April, the collegiate athletes are due for a quick turnaround as the WNBA season begins with games happening on April 25. Top prospects like UCLA’s Lauren Betts and the University of Connecticut’s Azzi Fudd await the draft, happening on April 13 in New York City.
After months of negotiations, a Collective Bargaining Agreement between the player’s union and the league seemed far-fetched. Luckily, a new contract was reached in March allowing for the expansion draft, free agency, and more to finally begin. Now, salaries are directly tied to league revenue; as the WNBA grows in popularity, the players will be rewarded. Additionally, the maximum salary, previously $249,244, will be increased to $1.4 million for the 2026 season.
During this season, the WNBA is adding two new teams: the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo. After the Golden State Valkyries’ groundbreaking premier season, many fans are excited to see how these teams will perform. The Tempo are led by seasoned coach Sandy Brondello who led the New York Liberty to their first championship in 2024. For the Fire, former Cleveland Cavalier assistant coach Alex Sarama will be leading the way in the City of Roses. Portland’s roster is looking especially well-rounded with 6’2” Olympian Bridget Carleton and scrappy guard Carla Leite.
With a large chunk of movement happening in April, I am excited to see how the teams will fill out for the rest of the season. From expansion teams to a stacked draft class, this season is sure to be an interesting one!