After a whirlwind of an offseason, the WNBA might not have a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), but it certainly has a new 2026 schedule in place. Now, while the league’s historic 30th season depends on a new CBA, fans are already gearing up for a schedule beginning on May 8th.
Starting with a rematch of the 2025 WNBA Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury, the season is set to host 44 games with a proper 17-day break for the highly anticipated FIBA World Cup in September. And with all teams suiting up for the opening weekend, some games are already on everyone’s radar.
2026 WNBA Schedule: Ten Must-Watch Games as League Releases Plan For 30th Season
Despite being a smaller league, the WNBA has been gaining popularity for years, enjoying a recent surge after players like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers took charge.
And while each team has dedicated loyal fans ready to support their city no matter what, some games are practically unmissable. Of course, this also includes the debuts of WNBA’s two new teams: Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo.
10. Phoenix Mercury at Las Vegas Aces — Saturday, May 9
The last time Las Vegas Aces icon A’ja Wilson suited up, she won the 2025 WNBA championship, 2025 WNBA MVP, and 2025 Finals MVP. And with an impressive 30-14 record, the Aces only cemented their place as season leaders.
And with the Phoenix Mercury, led by the formidable Alyssa Thomas, Kahleah Copper, and Satou Sabally, standing in their way last season, the WNBA has decided to kick things off with a rematch in 2026.
9. Minnesota Lynx at Phoenix Mercury — Tuesday, May 12
Speaking of the Mercury’s iconic trio, one cannot write off Napheesa Collier and her Minnesota Lynx. The Lynx led the lead with a 34-10 record, ultimately crashing out in their semifinals series against Phoenix.
Considering the unexpected upset as the underdogs took charge, it’ll be interesting to see a Lynx-Mercury rematch.
8. Portland Fire at Toronto Tempo — Saturday, May 23
While the team’s ready to bring back some familiar faces, there’s nothing like two new teams facing off.
Although fans will be excited to see a new team play versus existing franchises, most viewers will undoubtedly tune in for a clash between the Fire and the Tempo.
Having said that, a lot depends on the upcoming roster information, especially given the Golden State Valkyries’ perfect example from their inaugural campaign in 2025.
7. Chicago Sky at Indiana Fever — Thursday, June 11
With the 2026 season approaching, fans get to see another year of Angel Reese competing with WNBA phenom Caitlin Clark. The two players, while on different career paths, have been constantly pitted against each other by fans, making it impossible to miss an encounter between the two teams.
Furthermore, fans remain tuned in for the Sky to turn things around, while the Fever will only need more fuel to chase their first title since 2012.
6. Golden State Valkyries at Los Angeles Sparks — Thursday, September 24
With only 15 teams so far, the WNBA has only one in-state rivalry: the Valkyries and the Sparks.
And despite being the newer team, the Valkyries are already up 3-1 against the Sparks. This season, giving LA a new chance to up their game, there could be nothing better than to close the regular season out with a final clash between the two.
This game, irrespective of the outcome, will remain special for every WNBA fan and player.
Celebrating the league’s 30-year milestone, this Liberty-Sparks clash will be the official rematch of the league’s inaugural game on June 21, 1997.
Of course, with players like Breanna Stewart (Liberty), Sabrina Ionescu (Liberty), and Kelsey Plum (Sparks) leading the way, a stellar showdown is an additional guarantee.
1. Dallas Wings at Indiana Fever — Saturday, May 9
Who doesn’t want to see Paige Bueckers play against Caitlin Clark to kick off the 2026 WNBA season?
Ever since her debut as the Wings’ No. 1 pick in 2025, Bueckers has earned innumerable comparisons to the Fever superstar. Another season only cements their rivalry, paving the way for a new wave of young players to take over.
That said, one cannot predict players’ availability heading into the season. Stars like Collier and Clark were injured and are currently recovering before a new campaign begins.
Apart from the regular games, fans also have the Commissioner Cup, All-Star events, and the World Cup Break to look forward to.
The playoffs will begin on Sept. 27.
