The WNBA is officially back, and opening weekend is serving up a matchup that has basketball fans counting down the minutes. On Saturday, the Indiana Fever will host the Dallas Wings in a game that brings together the last four No. 1 overall draft picks—a rare and thrilling convergence of talent. Expect star power, fresh faces, and plenty of storylines to follow.
All eyes will be on Caitlin Clark as she returns to the court for the Fever, looking to build on a season that saw Indiana exceed all expectations. Alongside Aliyah Boston, Clark forms one of the league’s most dynamic duos. But the real buzz? The WNBA debut of Azzi Fudd, this year’s No. 1 pick, who joins former UConn teammate Paige Bueckers in Dallas. These two won an NCAA championship together in 2025, and the Wings are hoping that chemistry translates to the pro level.
Last season, Dallas struggled to just 10 wins, hampered by injuries and an inconsistent lineup. One of their biggest weaknesses was a lack of reliable three-point shooting—a gap Fudd is expected to fill immediately. Her shooting form has even drawn praise from Stephen Curry, so the potential is undeniable. The Wings also welcome a new head coach, Jose Fernandez, who arrives after 25 years at the University of South Florida.
On the other side, the Fever are entering 2026 as serious title contenders. After battling through injuries last year and still reaching the WNBA semifinals, Indiana is now healthier and hungrier. Clark, Sophie Cunningham, and Kelsey Mitchell are all ready to go after missing time last season. However, veteran forward Monique Billings is listed as questionable with a recent ankle injury. One new name to watch: former South Carolina guard Raven Johnson, who impressed during the preseason with 18 points, 14 assists, and seven steals over three games.
If you need a little more context: these two teams already met in the preseason on April 30, with Dallas taking a 95-80 win. Clark looked sharp in front of the home crowd, dropping 21 points in just 16 minutes before an injury scare cut her night short. Bueckers led the Wings in that game, and with Fudd now in the mix, the rematch promises even more fireworks.
Game Details:
Date: Saturday, May 9
Time: 1 p.m. ET
Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana
TV: ABC
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just tuning in for the first time, this is the kind of opening weekend matchup that sets the tone for an entire season. Get your gear ready, mark your calendar, and settle in for a showdown that’s as much about the future of the league as it is about the present.