Full Breakdown
WNBA Expansion Draft: Building the Future for Toronto and Portland
3/26/2026, 7:58:00 PM
Overview of the Expansion Draft
The WNBA is set to hold its expansion draft on April 3, 2026, for the newly established franchises, the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire. This draft follows the unanimous ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) by the WNBA Players Association and the league's Board of Governors. Unlike the previous year's expansion draft for the Golden State Valkyries, this year's process is collectively bargained, introducing specific rules that create a unique challenge for the new teams.
Key Rules and Structure
Each of the 13 existing WNBA teams can protect five players, which may include those under contract, free agents, or previously drafted players who have not yet joined their teams. The expansion teams will select players in a snake draft format, with the first pick determined by a coin flip. Each existing team can only lose a maximum of one player, and the new franchises can select only one unrestricted free agent each, who can then be offered a core designation, allowing for a supermax contract of up to $1.4 million annually.
Potential Player Selections
The draft presents a limited pool of players due to the protection rules, but several notable unrestricted free agents are projected to be available. Among them are:
1. Arike Ogunbowale (Wings, Guard) - A high-scoring guard who could be left unprotected if the Dallas Wings prioritize younger talent.
2. Azurá Stevens (Sparks, Forward) - A versatile player with strong offensive skills, potentially miscast in her current role.
3. Cecilia Zandalasini (Valkyries, Forward) - A well-rounded player who had a standout season and could be a valuable addition.
4. Julie Allemand (Sparks, Guard) - A steady point guard with a strong FIBA background, offering leadership and playmaking.
5. Dorka Juhász (Lynx, Center) - A young, mobile center with proven performance in international play.
These players represent a mix of established talent and promising prospects, crucial for the expansion teams as they build competitive rosters.
Implications for the League
The expansion draft is significant not only for the new franchises but also for the existing teams, as they must make strategic decisions about player protection. The outcome of this draft could reshape team dynamics across the league, similar to past expansion drafts that have seen notable players change teams and impact their new franchises significantly.
Official Statements & Responses
The WNBA has emphasized the importance of this expansion draft in its efforts to grow the league and enhance competition. The league's officials have expressed optimism about the potential for Toronto and Portland to quickly become competitive, as demonstrated by the Valkyries' playoff appearance in their inaugural season.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts have raised concerns about the limited player pool available to the expansion teams, arguing that the protection rules may hinder their ability to build a strong foundation. Critics suggest that the CBA's constraints could lead to a less competitive start for the Tempo and Fire compared to previous expansion teams.
What's Next
Following the expansion draft, the WNBA will continue to prepare for the 2026 season, with the college draft scheduled for April 13. The outcomes of both drafts will be closely monitored as they will significantly influence the future landscape of the league.
