The WNBA is officially back, and the 2026 season tipped off with a bang over the weekend. For USC fans, it's time to rally behind the Trojans making their mark on the professional stage—and this year, there are two standout names to watch on active rosters.
First up is Kiki Iriafen, who made a splash as a WNBA All-Star during her rookie season. Now in her second year with the Washington Mystics, Iriafen is poised to build on that momentum and prove she's a force to be reckoned with. Expect big things from this former Trojan as she continues to elevate her game.
The other USC alum making waves is Temi Fagbenle. After a standout season at USC in 2015-2016 as a transfer from Harvard, Fagbenle initially played in the WNBA from 2017 to 2019 before spending four years overseas. She returned to the league in 2024 and now suits up for the expansion Toronto Tempo—a fresh chapter that adds an exciting layer to her career journey.
While these two are holding it down, some familiar faces are missing from the opening-day rosters. Rayah Marshall, who appeared in 15 games as a rookie with the Connecticut Sun last season, was traded to the Dallas Wings during the offseason but was waived before the regular season started. Similarly, Kara Dunn, who played for the Women of Troy this past season, signed a training camp contract with the Phoenix Mercury but didn't make the final cut.
The WNBA season is long, and with injuries and roster moves always a possibility, there's still a chance that Marshall and Dunn could get signed by teams down the line. For now, though, USC fans can cheer on Iriafen and Fagbenle as they carry the Trojan torch in the league.
