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WNBA Unveils 2026 Schedule with New Teams, Breaks

1/22/2026

26 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

WNBA 2026 Schedule

The WNBA released its 2026 schedule with 44 games per team and a 17-day World Cup break.
The season opens May 8, 2026, with a rematch of the 2025 Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury.
New teams Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire debut this season, with their first game on May 23, 2026.
Ongoing talks for a new collective bargaining agreement may affect the start.

Summary

Liberty Seek Championship

The New York Liberty of the Women's National Basketball Association begin their 30th season on May 8 at Barclays Center against the Connecticut Sun, with head coach Chris DeMarco.
The schedule includes a seven-game homestand and two road trips, with Dallas Wings on May 24 and Phoenix Mercury on May 27 and 29.
The regular season ends September 24.
The Liberty aim to reclaim title contention this season.

History

Historical Context

Established on April 24, 1996, the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) began play in 1997, following the USA women's national team's success at the 1996 Olympics. Starting with eight teams, including the New York Liberty and Houston Comets, the league has expanded significantly, now featuring 15 teams and plans for more by 2030, reflecting its growth and the ongoing push for gender equality in sports.

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WNBA 2026 Schedule

The WNBA released its 2026 schedule with 44 games per team and a 17-day World Cup break.
The season opens May 8, 2026, with a rematch of the 2025 Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury.
New teams Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire debut this season, with their first game on May 23, 2026.
Ongoing talks for a new collective bargaining agreement may affect the start.

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