The numbers
The WNBA free agency period kicks off on April 6, 2026, with over 100 players eligible to sign with new teams. The Designation Period will run from April 6-7, followed by a three-day Negotiation Period from April 8-10, during which teams can discuss contracts with free agents. Signings are set to commence on April 11, 2026.
Among the notable early commitments, A’ja Wilson has confirmed she will remain with the Las Vegas Aces, stating, “I’m not leaving Vegas, so I’m not looking anywhere.” Meanwhile, Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu have both announced their intentions to re-sign with the New York Liberty, with Stewart asserting, “I’m gonna just set the record straight here: I will be staying in New York,” and Ionescu adding, “I’m where I’m supposed to be.” These decisions highlight the stability of key franchises as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The Connecticut Sun is also making headlines as they prepare to relocate to Houston, signaling a significant shift in the league’s landscape. This move comes at a time when the WNBA is contemplating expansion teams in Portland and Toronto, which could further alter the competitive balance of the league.
Historically, the offseason has been condensed due to extended labor negotiations between the league and the players’ union. This has raised questions about how the shortened timeframe will impact player movement and contract negotiations. Observers are particularly interested in whether many players will opt for one-year deals with their current teams, as Kendra Andrews noted, “There could be a lot of one-year deals signed by players with the teams for which they played last year.”
As the free agency period unfolds, several uncertainties loom. How will the condensed offseason affect player movement? Will expansion teams successfully attract free agents? What impact will the new CBA have on player salaries? Details remain unconfirmed.
In the midst of these developments, players like Arike Ogunbowale, who recorded a career-low shooting percentage of 36.4% and an average of 15.5 points last season, will be looking to bounce back. Meanwhile, Nneka Ogwumike, who averaged 18.3 points and 7.0 rebounds last season, is expected to be a key figure in the negotiations.
The 2026 WNBA Draft is scheduled for April 13, 2026, just days after the free agency period begins, adding another layer of complexity to the offseason. Training camps are set to open on April 19, 2026, as teams finalize their rosters and prepare for the new season.
As the clock ticks down to the opening of free agency, the WNBA community is bracing for a flurry of activity that could reshape the league’s competitive landscape for the upcoming season.
