Top WNBA Free Agents Headline Busy 2026 Offseason

League's top stars, including A'ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart, headline a star-studded free agency class with major implications for the 2026 season.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:13am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a WNBA basketball game in motion, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant blue, red, and gold colors, creating a dynamic and visually striking representation of the league's transformative free agency period.The 2026 WNBA free agency period promises to reshape the league's competitive landscape with a flurry of star-studded signings and trades.NYC Today

The WNBA's 2026 free agency period is shaping up to be a blockbuster event, with a deep class of top talent headlined by four-time MVP A'ja Wilson and seven-time All-Star Breanna Stewart. Teams are gearing up for a flurry of signings, trades, and player movement as they look to bolster their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. The New York Liberty, Phoenix Mercury, and expansion franchises like the Golden State Valkyries and Toronto Tempo are expected to be among the most active players in the market.

Why it matters

This year's WNBA free agency class is particularly star-studded, with several franchise cornerstones and perennial All-Stars potentially on the move. The decisions made by these top players will have major implications for the league's competitive balance and which teams emerge as title contenders in 2026 and beyond.

The details

Among the top free agents are A'ja Wilson, who is expected to remain with the Las Vegas Aces, and Napheesa Collier, who is likely to stay with the Minnesota Lynx. In New York, the Liberty are hoping to retain Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and other key pieces as they look to bounce back from an early playoff exit. The Phoenix Mercury, meanwhile, are aiming to keep their dynamic duo of Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner together. Beyond the top names, players like Satou Sabally and Jewell Loyd could also significantly impact their new teams, while the expansion Valkyries and Tempo have already made some notable signings.

  • The WNBA's 2026 free agency period is currently underway.
  • Teams have until June 30, 2026 to sign free agents ahead of the 2026 season.

The players

A'ja Wilson

A four-time WNBA MVP who is expected to remain with the Las Vegas Aces, forming a formidable duo with coach Becky Hammon.

Napheesa Collier

A lynchpin of the Minnesota Lynx who is likely to stay with the franchise despite rehabbing from an ankle injury.

Breanna Stewart

A seven-time WNBA All-Star who has expressed her intention to re-sign with the New York Liberty, solidifying her role as a cornerstone of the franchise.

Sabrina Ionescu

A dynamic guard for the New York Liberty who, despite a dip in 3-point shooting last season, remains a coveted asset.

Alyssa Thomas

A versatile powerhouse for the Phoenix Mercury who, along with DeWanna Bonner, forms a dynamic duo that could propel the team to new heights.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This year's free agency class is truly special. The level of talent and star power is unmatched, and the potential for roster shakeups is palpable.”

— Mechelle Voepel, WNBA Analyst

“The expansion teams have already made their mark, and I can't wait to see how the rest of the league responds. This is going to be a wild ride.”

— LaChina Robinson, WNBA Commentator

What’s next

As the free agency period continues, all eyes will be on where the top players land and how those decisions impact the competitive landscape of the WNBA. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the signings, trades, and roster moves in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The 2026 WNBA free agency period is a testament to the league's growing popularity and the increasing value of its players. With a star-studded class of free agents, the potential for significant roster changes, and the impact of expansion teams, this offseason promises to be a transformative one for the WNBA.