The 2026 WNBA season is officially here, and the excitement is palpable. As the league tips off its 30th season on Friday, we're seeing more teams, more talent, and more storylines than ever before. The big question on everyone's mind: who's going to take home the championship?
Will the Las Vegas Aces continue their dynasty and secure a fourth title in five years? Can the New York Liberty or the Phoenix Mercury make a triumphant return to the WNBA Finals? Or are we about to witness a new champion rise and etch their name into history? While we can't predict the future just yet, we can take a closer look at the rosters to see who has the edge. Here's our power rankings breakdown, featuring projected starters, surprising cuts, and the final rosters that will shape the season.
Las Vegas Aces
Projected Starting Five: Chelsea Gray (G, 5-11), Jackie Young (G, 6-0), A'ja Wilson (C, 6-3), Stephanie Talbot (F, 6-2), NaLyssa Smith (F, 6-4)
The Aces are loaded with star power and experience. With Wilson anchoring the paint and Gray orchestrating the offense, they remain the team to beat.
New York Liberty
Projected Starting Five: Sabrina Ionescu (G, 5-11), Breanna Stewart (F, 6-4), Jonquel Jones (C, 6-6), Leonie Fiebich (F, 6-4), Satou Sabally (F, 6-4)
The Liberty boast a towering lineup that can dominate on both ends. Stewart and Ionescu form a dynamic duo that could carry them deep into the playoffs.
Indiana Fever
Projected Starting Five: Caitlin Clark (G, 6-0), Kelsey Mitchell (G, 5-8), Lexie Hull (G, 6-2), Monique Billings (F, 6-4), Aliyah Boston (F/C, 6-5)
2025 Record: 30-14 (lost in first round of playoffs)
The Fever are hungry after a strong regular season last year. With Clark's playmaking and Boston's inside presence, they're poised for a deeper run.
Atlanta Dream
Projected Starting Five: Allisha Gray (G, 6-0), Jordin Canada (G, 5-6), Rhyne Howard (G, 6-2), Angel Reese (F, 6-4), Brionna Jones (F, 6-3)
The Dream have a balanced mix of youth and experience. Reese's rebounding and Howard's scoring could make them a surprise contender.
Phoenix Mercury
Projected Starting Five: Monique Akoa Makani (G, 5-11), Natasha Mack (F-C, 6-4), Kahleah Copper (G/F, 6-1), Alyssa Thomas (F, 6-2), DeWanna Bonner (G/F, 6-4)
Most Surprising Cut: F Chloe Bibby (traded for on May 6, waived one day later)
The Mercury have a gritty, versatile lineup. Thomas and Bonner bring veteran leadership, while Copper adds explosive scoring.
Minnesota Lynx
Projected Starting Five: Olivia Miles (G, 5-10), Courtney Williams (G, 5-8), Kayla McBride (G, 5-11), Natasha Howard (F, 6-2), Napheesa Collier (F, 6-1)
The Lynx are built on speed and shooting. Collier is a two-way force, and Miles is a rising star to watch.
Los Angeles Sparks
Projected Starting Five: Kelsey Plum (G, 5-8), Ariel Atkins (G, 5-10), Dearica Hamby (F, 6-3), Nneka Ogwumike (F, 6-2), Rae Burrell (G/F, 6-2)
The Sparks have a revamped roster with proven winners. Plum's scoring and Ogwumike's leadership could spark a turnaround.
As the season unfolds, every game will matter. Whether you're rooting for a dynasty or an underdog, one thing's for sure—this is going to be a thrilling ride. Stay tuned, and don't forget to gear up with the latest WNBA-inspired apparel to show your support!