The 2026 WNBA season tips off this weekend, and the league is buzzing with anticipation. While the Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty remain the teams to beat, the rest of the league has taken vastly different paths in hopes of closing the gap. From blockbuster trades to bold rookie investments, here's a look at how the landscape has shifted.
Atlanta Dream
Coming off an impressive 30-14 season, the Dream opted for continuity—with one major exception. After losing Brittney Griner, they brought in Angel Reese to anchor the frontcourt. Coach Tanisha Smesko's squad is poised to dominate the boards, and all eyes are on 6-foot-6 rookie Madina Okot. With Brionna Jones facing an uncertain timeline following knee surgery, Okot could have an early opportunity to develop into Atlanta's next star.
Los Angeles Sparks
The Sparks may have had the most complete offseason in the entire league. Adding Nneka Ogwumike and Ariel Atkins gives them a real chance to transform a defense that ranked dead last in 2025. The decision to trade away 2025 first-round pick Rickea Jackson is a gamble, but General Manager Raegan Pebley is betting on winning now. If the new pieces click, Los Angeles could be this season's biggest surprise.
Connecticut Sun
This is a bittersweet season for the Sun, as it marks their final year before relocating to Houston and rebranding as the Rockets. Leila Lacan and Saniya Rivers will have another chance to step up as leaders during this transition, while rookies Nell Angloma and Gianna Kneepkens could see meaningful minutes early. Having Brittney Griner in the post provides a steady veteran presence, giving the Sun some much-needed direction.
Chicago Sky
Chicago had one of the most puzzling offseasons in recent memory—and it only got stranger in the week before tip-off. After releasing Hailey Van Lith, they brought in Natasha Cloud. The Sky completely revamped their identity by trading Angel Reese and adding Skylar Diggins, pairing her with young building block Rickea Jackson. However, they also traded a first-round pick for Jacy Sheldon and another for expansion draft protection, only to let players go anyway. Former UCLA star Gabriela Jaquez has earned praise throughout preseason camp and could be a key rotational piece.
Washington Mystics
The Mystics are rolling with the least experienced roster in the league, keeping all six of their draft picks on the opening night roster. Georgia Amoore returns after tearing her ACL as a rookie, while cornerstone players Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron enter just their second seasons. The only veteran presences are Shakira Austin and free agent signee Michaela Onyenwere. It's a youth movement in Washington, and the growing pains could be real—but the upside is undeniable.