WNBA 2026 season kicks off as Aces retain title and MVP favouritism
ESPN experts identify the Aces' core four as the primary threat to the title, while Paige Bueckers and Olivia Miles are tipped to claim rookie honours in a competitive opening weekend.
The 2026 WNBA season has officially commenced, marking the league's 30th anniversary. The campaign follows a chaotic offseason characterised by a new collective bargaining agreement ratified just 51 days prior, a two-team expansion draft, and free agency involving over 100 players. All 15 teams, including the newly expanded Toronto and Portland franchises, are now in action.
ESPN experts have released their preseason predictions, identifying the Las Vegas Aces as the overwhelming favourites to defend their title. The Aces' campaign is anchored by their core four of A'ja Wilson, Chelsea Young, Ariel Atkins, and Jackie Young, alongside key bench reinforcements such as Chennedy Carter, Stephanie Talbot, and Brianna Turner. Analysts note that the return of this group, combined with the leadership of coach Becky Hammon, positions them to dominate despite the league-wide instability.
While the Aces lead the charge, the New York Liberty, Phoenix Mercury, and Indiana Fever are viewed as significant contenders. The Liberty enter the season with a healthy Breanna Stewart and Satou Sabally, presenting a formidable quartet alongside Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Mercury, led by Alyssa Thomas, and the Indiana Fever remain in the conversation, with Atlanta also noted as a developing core group capable of a championship run if their pieces align.
In the MVP race, A'ja Wilson is the unanimous favourite to secure her fifth award. Experts highlight Wilson's relentless desire to be the best and her status as the most dominant player in the game. While Wilson's prime years continue, the competition for the honour remains tight, with Alyssa Thomas, Breanna Stewart, and Caitlin Clark also identified as potential contenders by various analysts.
On the rookie front, Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings and Olivia Miles of the Minnesota Lynx are tipped to win the Rookie of the Year award. Bueckers is expected to thrive in an improved system with increased talent surrounding her, while Miles is anticipated to become a primary scorer for the Lynx as Napheesa Collier recovers from injury. Miles' high college scoring average and the team's specific needs make her a strong institutional pick.
Opening weekend features a doubleheader on ABC, with the Dallas Wings taking on the Indiana Fever followed by a 2025 Finals rematch between the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury. The schedule includes three games on Friday, setting the stage for a competitive start to the season.
Ultimately, while history suggests the Aces are the favourites, the consensus among experts acknowledges that the Liberty, Mercury, and Fever possess the upper-echelon talent required to challenge Vegas. The season begins with high stakes for a league celebrating three decades of play.
