Full Breakdown
Portland Fire Select Bridget Carleton as Top Pick in WNBA Expansion Draft
4/4/2026, 1:49:13 AM
Key Details of the Expansion Draft
The Portland Fire selected unrestricted free agent Bridget Carleton as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 WNBA expansion draft held on Friday. Carleton, who previously played for the Minnesota Lynx, was a targeted choice for the Fire, as they aimed to prevent the Toronto Tempo from acquiring the Ontario native. Both teams focused on building a foundation of experienced players, with Carleton averaging 6.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 27.9 minutes per game last season.
In addition to Carleton, the Fire also selected Maya Caldwell, Emily Engstler, and Sug Sutton, all of whom bring several years of experience to the new franchise. The Toronto Tempo, on the other hand, drafted six-year veteran Marina Mabrey, who was the second-highest scorer for the Connecticut Sun last season, along with Nyara Sabally and Julie Allemand.
Player Selections Overview
The complete list of players selected in the expansion draft includes:
- Portland Fire: Bridget Carleton, Maya Caldwell, Emily Engstler, Sug Sutton, Nika Muhl
- Toronto Tempo: Marina Mabrey, Nyara Sabally, Julie Allemand, Lexi Held, Aaliyah Nye
Notably, Nika Muhl, who has undergone two consecutive ACL surgeries, was selected by Portland, indicating the team's commitment to her potential recovery and future contributions.
Official Statements & Responses
Both teams emphasized the importance of selecting veteran players to enhance their inaugural rosters. The Fire's general manager, Vanja Cernivec, expressed confidence in the selections, particularly in reuniting with Carla Leite, who previously played under him. Meanwhile, the Tempo's acquisition of Held was seen as a strategic move to bolster their shooting capabilities.
Criticism & Opposition
While the expansion draft was largely viewed as a strategic success for both teams, some analysts raised concerns about the risks associated with selecting players recovering from injuries, such as Muhl. Critics argue that investing in players with uncertain health statuses could hinder the teams' immediate competitiveness.
What's Next for the WNBA
Following the expansion draft, the WNBA's offseason agenda includes the upcoming free agency period, which is pending the finalization of a new collective bargaining agreement. Although the league has ratified the agreement, the specifics have yet to be signed, delaying the start of free agency. The collegiate draft is scheduled for April 13, with training camps commencing on April 19.
