The WNBA is charging into its landmark 30th season with more buzz than ever before—and the 2026 title race is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in league history. With two expansion teams, the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, joining the mix, the league now boasts 15 franchises, and three more (Detroit, Cleveland, and Philadelphia) are set to tip off before 2028. It's a new era for women's basketball, and the energy is electric.
Let's be real: critics still grumble about the quality of play, and sure, there are growing pains. But how much Washington Wizards basketball did you watch this season? Tanking has become an art form in the NBA, and every league has its highs and lows. The WNBA has its share of star power, standout coaches, and yes, even off-court drama—though the real controversy isn't who's dating whom, but the baffling mismanagement of the Connecticut franchise. When you think of women's basketball in this country, Connecticut is iconic, so why would you even consider moving that team?
As the season tips off on Friday, May 8, the championship picture is already coming into focus. Here's a breakdown of the favorites, dark horses, and everything in between, with odds courtesy of BetRivers.
The Favorites
The Las Vegas Aces remain the team to beat, led by the unstoppable A'ja Wilson. After a dramatic 2025 playoff run that saw Wilson's clutch basket seal a win over the Phoenix Mercury in Game Three of the finals, the Aces are hungry for more. Their depth, defensive intensity, and championship experience make them the gold standard—but the target on their backs has never been bigger.
The Contenders
The New York Liberty are knocking on the door. With Sabrina Ionescu running the show and a roster built to challenge Vegas, they've got the firepower to go all the way. Their semifinal victory over the Aces in 2024 proved they can hang with the best. The Mercury, meanwhile, are reloading and looking to reclaim their throne, while the Seattle Storm and Chicago Sky are lurking with young talent and savvy veterans.
Dark Horses to Watch
Don't sleep on the expansion teams. The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire have built smart rosters and could surprise early. And with the league's growing parity, any team with a hot streak in the playoffs could make a run. The WNBA is no longer a two-team league—it's a proving ground where grit and strategy can topple dynasties.
So, grab your jersey, pick your squad, and get ready for a season that promises to be unforgettable. Whether you're repping the Aces, Liberty, or cheering for the new kids on the block, 2026 is going to be a wild ride.