Breanna Stewart Signs with Turkish Club Fenerbahce Amid WNBA CBA Talks

The New York Liberty star will join the EuroLeague powerhouse for the Final Six tournament in April.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart has signed with Turkish basketball club Fenerbahce Opet, joining the team for the EuroLeague Final Six tournament in April 2026. The timing of the announcement has raised some eyebrows among fans, as the WNBA's collective bargaining agreement negotiations have reached a critical stage with the start of the season in jeopardy.

Why it matters

Stewart is one of the WNBA's biggest stars, and her decision to play overseas during the league's offseason has sparked speculation about the state of the CBA talks. The WNBA and its players' union have been negotiating a new agreement, with Commissioner Adam Silver warning that the 11th hour has arrived to reach a deal in time for the season to start as scheduled.

The details

According to the announcement, Stewart will be joining a Fenerbahce roster that already includes her New York Liberty teammate Emma Meesseman and Seattle Storm star Gabby Williams. Stewart previously played for Fenerbahce in 2023, helping the team win its first EuroLeague championship. The EuroLeague Final Six tournament is scheduled for April 15-19, 2026, which should give Stewart enough time to rest before the start of the WNBA season.

  • Fenerbahce announced Stewart's signing on February 16, 2026.
  • The EuroLeague Final Six tournament will take place from April 15-19, 2026.

The players

Breanna Stewart

A star forward for the New York Liberty and one of the WNBA's top players, with a resume that includes NCAA titles, WNBA championships, and Olympic gold medals.

Emma Meesseman

A Belgian professional basketball player who currently plays for the New York Liberty and will be Stewart's teammate on Fenerbahce.

Gabby Williams

An American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Seattle Storm and will also be joining Fenerbahce for the EuroLeague Final Six.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.