#wnba

Brittney Griner Draws WNBA Punishment After Incident With Angel Reese During Dream Reunion The matchup between the Atlanta Dream and the Connecticut Sun was expected to be a key moment for Brittney Griner, who previously played for the Dream before joining the Sun. However, the game’s most notable moment involved an incident between Griner and Angel Reese, which drew attention to the league’s enforcement of new rules. The clash occurred in the fourth quarter, sparking discussions about officiating and player conduct. With 7:43 remaining in the fourth quarter, the Atlanta Dream led the Connecticut Sun 68-65. The tension escalated when Reese, playing for the Dream, engaged with Griner under the basket after a missed shot. Officials ruled that Griner had wrapped her hand around Reese’s arm, causing the Dream forward to fall to the floor. The call resulted in Griner being assessed her first Flagrant 1 foul of the 2026 season, sending Reese to the free-throw line, where she converted one of two attempts. The incident highlighted the league’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) rules, which impose stricter penalties for flagrant fouls. A Flagrant 1 foul carries an automatic $500 fine and one flagrant point, while a Flagrant 2 results in a $1,000 fine, two flagrant points, and an automatic ejection. Players who accumulate four flagrant points during the season face a one-game suspension. Griner now has one flagrant point, and three more would trigger an automatic suspension. The ruling also placed Griner’s situation in the context of broader league efforts to address inconsistent officiating and rising physicality. Last season, the WNBA faced criticism for perceived leniency in calling fouls, particularly in high-stakes games.#angel_reese #wnba #brittney_griner #connecticut_sun #atlanta_dream

Aliyah Boston Remains Elite Forward-Center in WNBA Despite Struggles Aliyah Boston continues to stand out as one of the premier forward-centers in the WNBA, maintaining her status as a top-tier player for the Indiana Fever. Entering the 2026 season, Boston has averaged 16.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, showcasing her versatility and impact on both ends of the court. Despite her overall success, the three-time All-Star has faced challenges during individual games, highlighting the pressures of competing at the highest level. One notable instance occurred during the Fever’s second game of the season against the Los Angeles Sparks. In that matchup, Boston struggled offensively, scoring just four points—earned entirely from free throws—and shooting 0-of-3 from the field. The difficulties were compounded when she fouled out after playing only 22 minutes, a stark contrast to her usual dominance. Such moments have prompted Boston to reflect on her performance and the emotional toll of setbacks. Despite her high standards, Boston acknowledges that managing her reactions during off nights remains a work in progress. She has openly discussed her tendency to be self-critical, often delivering harsh internal messages when her performance falls short of expectations. “I’m definitely getting better, but I usually start there. Like I usually start at, ‘You suck,’” she admitted when asked about her approach to handling poor games. This candidness reveals her commitment to growth, even as she grapples with the frustration of inconsistency. Boston’s frustration often stems from specific moments during games when she feels her efforts are wasted. She described the frustration of missing what she considers “easy” shots, particularly in the paint.#2026_season #los_angeles_sparks #wnba #indiana_fever #aliyah_boston

Caitlin Clark Injury Update: Fever Star's Back Issue and Record-Breaking Potential Caitlin Clark, the star player for the Indiana Fever, remains on the injury report as the team prepares for a crucial road matchup against the Golden State Valkyries. Despite a three-game winning streak for the Fever, Clark’s ongoing back issues have been a recurring concern throughout the season. The latest update indicates she is listed as probable for Thursday night’s game, though her participation remains uncertain. Clark’s injury history has been marked by setbacks. During the season opener, she required a back adjustment after the Fever’s victory over the Dallas Wings. This led to her absence for the May 20 game against the Portland Fire, which she was ruled out of just two hours before tipoff due to back soreness. The WNBA issued a formal warning about the handling of her scratch, noting that she was not listed on the injury report the day prior to the game. However, Clark returned five days later, contributing 22 points and nine assists in a 90-82 win over the Valkyries. Head coach Stephanie White addressed the league’s concerns directly, emphasizing the need for transparency. She confirmed that Clark will be listed as probable on the injury report moving forward to avoid similar policy issues. “Just to make sure there’s clarity and no issues with league policy, I think we will. You can expect to see it probable going forward,” White stated. Clark herself acknowledged that her injury would be reported as “soreness” in future games. If Clark plays tonight, the Valkyries face a significant challenge. Her performance in the previous matchup against Golden State showcased her impact: she scored 22 points on seven of 15 field goals, including four three-pointers, and added nine assists.#caitlin_clark #wnba #indiana_fever #stephanie_white #golden_state_valkyries

Fever's Grace VanSlooten Signing Aligns with Team's Strategic Needs The Indiana Fever made a strategic move on May 22 by signing forward Grace VanSlooten to a rest-of-season contract, following the waiver of veteran guard Shatori Walker-Kimbrough on May 21. The decision to replace Walker-Kimbrough with VanSlooten reflects the team’s focus on addressing frontcourt depth, a critical need highlighted by Aliyah Boston’s recent injury. VanSlooten, a 2026 WNBA Draft pick selected by the Seattle Storm with the No. 39 overall pick, had already demonstrated her potential during her brief stint with Seattle. She played four regular-season games for the Storm, averaging 4.3 points and 1.5 rebounds per game. Her performance caught the attention of the Fever, who had the opportunity to evaluate her during a May 17 matchup against their own team. In that game, VanSlooten logged 18 minutes, scoring 5 points while contributing 3 assists, 2 rebounds, and 2 steals. Her ability to impact the game in multiple ways—offense, defense, and ball movement—underscored her value as a versatile forward. The Fever’s front office saw VanSlooten as a perfect fit for their roster, which had struggled with frontcourt depth this season. Walker-Kimbrough, a guard, had been waived to create space for a player who could contribute in the frontcourt. VanSlooten’s signing not only balances the team’s positional needs but also provides flexibility in case of injuries or other unforeseen circumstances. Her familiarity with the Fever’s system, gained from her brief exposure during the May 17 game, further strengthens her case as a reliable addition. While VanSlooten’s immediate playing time may be limited as she adjusts to the Fever’s system, her presence offers the team a crucial insurance policy.#wnba #indiana_fever #aliyah_boston #seattle_storm #grace_vanslooten

WNBA and NBA Approve Relocation of Connecticut Sun to Houston as Comets Return in 2027 The WNBA and NBA Board of Governors have officially approved the sale of the Connecticut Sun to Houston-based businessman Tilman J. Fertitta, marking the return of professional women’s basketball to Houston after a 17-year absence. The team, which will be rebranded as the Houston Comets, is set to begin its new era in the 2027 season. The decision follows years of anticipation and underscores the growing significance of women’s sports in the city. The relocation of the Sun from the Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut to Houston is a historic milestone for the WNBA. The Houston Comets, the original franchise, were a dominant force in the league, winning four consecutive championships from 1995 to 1999 before folding in 2008. The return of the team to Houston is seen as a revival of the city’s basketball legacy and a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport. The transition will take place over the 2026 season, during which the Sun will continue to play its home games in Connecticut but will also host two regular-season matches at PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford, Connecticut, on May 30 and July 2. Additionally, the team will travel to Boston for a game at TD Garden on August 18 before permanently relocating to Houston. Mohegan Sun Arena will remain the team’s home for the 2026 season, with plans to move to Houston in 2027. The economic impact of the relocation has been highlighted by a Rice University professor, who estimated the move could generate over $70 million in economic activity based on data from recent expansion projects. This projection reflects the potential boost to Houston’s tourism, hospitality, and local businesses, particularly as the city seeks to strengthen its profile as a hub for professional sports.#nba #wnba #connecticut_sun #tilman_j_fertitta #houston_comets

Harvard Alum Temi Fagbenle ’15 Embraces New Chapter with the WNBA’s Toronto Tempo Temi Fagbenle ’15, a Harvard alum and WNBA star, has signed with the Toronto Tempo, one of the league’s newest expansion teams. The move marks her fifth season in the WNBA and her first with a Canadian-based franchise. Fagbenle, who has spent over a decade in professional basketball, described the opportunity as a chance to contribute to a team’s growth while continuing to evolve as a player. Fagbenle’s journey to the WNBA began with a standout collegiate career at Harvard, where she was a two-time All-Ivy League selection and a key contributor to the team’s success. After graduating in 2015, she transferred to the University of Southern California for her final season, a decision that proved pivotal in her professional development. Since 2016, she has played internationally, winning national championships in Spain, Italy, and Great Britain, as well as the 2024 EuroCup title with the London Lions. She also represented Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics, where she averaged 4.8 points, 4 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game despite her team’s 0-5 record in group play. Fagbenle’s WNBA career began in 2017 with the Minnesota Lynx, where she won a championship as a rookie. She returned to the league in 2024 with the Indiana Fever, averaging 9.1 points and 5.6 rebounds in her first month before injuries limited her to just 22 games. Her path to the Toronto Tempo, however, has been anything but linear. Over the years, she has navigated multiple leagues, countries, and roles, building a reputation as a versatile forward with a team-first mindset. “Success isn’t defined by a single moment or milestone,” Fagbenle said. “It’s about a mindset shaped over years of experience.#harvard #wnba #university_of_southern_california #toronto_tempo #temi_fagbenle

WNBA Player Rankings: The Top 50 Players Heading Into 2026 As the WNBA prepares to kick off its 30th season with a new collective bargaining agreement in place and the addition of new franchises in Portland and Toronto, a comprehensive ranking of the league’s top 50 players has been released. The list, which excludes rookies and unsigned players but includes those expected to return from injuries within the first two months of the season, highlights the league’s most impactful athletes ahead of the 2026 campaign. The New York Liberty and Atlanta Dream lead the rankings with six players each, while the Las Vegas Aces, Chicago Sky, and Los Angeles Sparks each have five representatives. The rankings open with A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces, who remains the league’s dominant force. The four-time MVP and defending champion secured her fourth regular-season MVP award in 2025, leading the Aces to their third WNBA title. Wilson’s 23.4 points per game, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks in 2025 underscore her continued excellence, including a 50.5% shooting efficiency from the field and an 80% free-throw accuracy. Her performance solidified her position as the league’s most consistent player. Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury follows in second place, showcasing her elite playmaking abilities. The forward led the WNBA in assists per game in 2025, breaking the league’s single-season record with 357 assists. Her 15.4 points, 9.2 assists, and 8.8 rebounds per game reflect her role as a dual threat, while her eight triple-doubles—more than the rest of the league combined—highlight her dominance. Thomas’s ability to elevate her team’s offense while maintaining defensive impact makes her a key figure in the rankings.#las_vegas_aces #wnba #phoenix_mercury #new_york_liberty #atlanta_dream

Phoenix Mercury Reveal 'New Originals' Uniform and Court for 30th Season The Phoenix Mercury unveiled their "New Originals" uniform and matching court design on Friday as part of the WNBA’s Court Origins program in collaboration with Nike. This third new look for the 2026 season follows a rebranding effort in November and marks the team’s celebration of its 30th season. The design draws inspiration from the franchise’s original 1997 uniform, incorporating retro elements while introducing fresh color schemes and symbolic details. The jersey features a watermelon-colored base, yellow shoulder straps, and purple trim. Across the chest, the word “Mercury” is written in white using the script the team has employed for 28 years. Below the player’s numbers, the “Fry’s” logo remains, while Hero Bread, the team’s new jersey partner, is displayed in the top-left corner. The shorts include the original yellow “M” icon and a retro WNBA logo. A patch on the back neckline features the number “3” and a silver trophy, commemorating Phoenix’s three WNBA championships. The court design revives the classic Mercury logo at center court, with the sidelines painted watermelon to mirror the jersey’s color. Each side of the court includes the names of every player in franchise history, written in the key. Ring of Honor members are highlighted in bold, and the team’s 30th season logo is positioned on the left. The uniform and court will debut on May 21 during the team’s game against the Los Angeles Sparks, marking the first time the New Originals jersey will be available for purchase. The Mercury also plan to showcase the design during 30th Season Celebration Nights throughout the season. Additionally, the team will participate in the WNBA’s Courts Origins game nights on August 1, facing the New York Liberty.#nike #wnba #phoenix_mercury #frys #hero_bread

WNBA Celebrates 30th Season With Retro Throwback Jerseys and Court Origins Program The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is commemorating its 30th season with a nostalgic tribute to its inaugural year, 1997, through its Court Origins initiative. The program, announced on April 24, features retro-inspired basketballs and jerseys for the league’s three surviving founding franchises—the Los Angeles Sparks, the New York Liberty, and the Phoenix Mercury—as well as special courts and game schedules designed to honor the league’s legacy. The Court Origins Wilson EVO NXT basketball, which is identical to the model currently used by the WNBA, has been retrofitted with vintage aesthetics. The ball retains its alternating panel design but features lighter panels in vintage white or cream tones. Two panels bear retro league logos, while the third panel displays the WNBA’s 30th season logo alongside a modern player silhouette. This design bridges the gap between past and present, reflecting the league’s evolution over three decades. Each of the three original franchises will don custom jerseys that replicate their 1997 looks. The Sparks’ jersey is predominantly yellow with purple side panels extending to the shoulders and white panels over the shoulders. A retro wordmark for the team, featuring a teal-accented palm tree, runs across the chest, paired with an offset purple number. The Liberty’s jersey is mostly black, with seafoam green side panels outlined in orange and silver over the shoulders. The team’s original wordmark, which replaces the “I” in “LIBERTY” with a torch, is arched across the chest. The Mercury’s jersey is red with purple side panels and yellow over the shoulders, featuring a slanted wordmark and a white number outlined in purple.#los_angeles_sparks #las_vegas_aces #wnba #phoenix_mercury #new_york_liberty

Las Vegas Aces Re-Sign Three-Time World Champion A’ja Wilson Las Vegas Aces president and general manager Nikki Fargas announced on April 15, 2026, that the team has re-signed four-time WNBA Most Valuable Player A’ja Wilson, a pivotal figure in the Aces’ three WNBA championships over the past four seasons. The re-signing ensures the Aces retain 90% of their scoring power, with Wilson contributing 75.5 points per game out of the team’s total 83.6 points per game in 2025. Fargas praised Wilson’s impact, stating, “A’ja is truly one of one, who has led this franchise to where it is today. Not only has she catapulted into the history books and surpassed almost every record in existence, but she does so with the utmost confidence, authenticity and grace. We look forward to continuing to see her thrive in an Aces uniform.” Wilson, who closed the 2025 season as the only player in WNBA history to earn M’VP, Defensive Player of the Year, Finals M’VP, and lead the league in scoring in the same season, expressed her commitment with a cryptic message: “YKWTFGO.” Her 2025 season was marked by historic achievements, including becoming the only player in league history to secure a fourth WNBA M’VP honor. She previously won the award in 2020, 2022, and 2024, while also claiming two WNBA Finals M’VP titles, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, seven All-Star selections, six All-WNBA honors, and five All-Defensive Team nods. Wilson’s 2025 season with the Aces was a masterclass in dominance. She averaged 23.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.6 steals, and 2.3 blocks during the regular season, and 26.8 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.1 steals, and 2.5 blocks in the playoffs.#las_vegas_aces #wnba #aja_wilson #nika_fargas #wnba_championships

A'ja Wilson Signs Historic 3-Year, $5M Supermax Contract with Las Vegas Aces A'ja Wilson, the WNBA’s first four-time MVP, has agreed to a landmark three-year, $5 million supermax contract with the Las Vegas Aces, sources confirmed to ESPN. The deal, the largest in WNBA history and fully guaranteed for Wilson, was negotiated by her agent, Jade-Li English of Klutch Sports Group. While the Aces publicly announced the re-signing, they did not disclose the specifics of the agreement. Under the next WNBA collective bargaining agreement, Wilson will earn $1.4 million for the upcoming season, with her salary increasing over the next two years based on her receiving 20% of the team’s salary cap. This structure is supported by the league’s new revenue share model, which aims to distribute financial resources more evenly across teams. The Aces’ president and general manager, Nikki Fargas, praised Wilson’s contributions to the franchise, stating, “A’ja is truly one of one, who has led this franchise to where it is today. Not only has she catapulted into the history books and surpassed almost every record in existence, but she does so with the utmost confidence, authenticity, and grace. We look forward to continuing to see her thrive in an Aces uniform.” Wilson’s re-signing solidifies the Aces’ roster, as the team will retain 90% of its scoring power from the 2025 championship squad, which averaged 75.5 points per game out of a possible 83.6. Wilson, 29, has been a cornerstone of the Aces’ success since being drafted first overall by Las Vegas in 2018. She helped the team secure its first WNBA title in franchise history in 2022, then repeated the feat in 2023 while earning Finals MVP honors.#las_vegas_aces #wnba #aja_wilson #jade_li_english #nikki_fargas

Kelsey Plum Lands Core Qualifying Offer from Sparks Monday marked the first day WNBA teams could designate core tags and extend qualifying offers to free agents, setting the stage for significant roster moves ahead of the official free agency period, which begins Wednesday. The Los Angeles Sparks emerged as a key player in the early action by extending a core qualifying offer to Kelsey Plum, a pivotal move that underscores the team’s commitment to retaining its star guard. The offer, which grants the Sparks exclusive negotiating rights during free agency, starts at the new supermax salary of approximately $1.5 million under the updated Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). While core designations automatically last one year, the Sparks and Plum have the flexibility to negotiate a longer contract if both parties agree. The core designation is a critical component of the CBA, designed to protect key players from being poached by rival teams during free agency. By securing Plum’s exclusive rights, the Sparks aim to stabilize their roster and build on the progress made during her first season with the franchise. Plum’s inclusion as a core player also reflects her status as one of the league’s premier scorers and playmakers, with her performance last season solidifying her value to the team. In addition to Plum’s core offer, the Sparks extended reserved qualifying offers to three other free agents: Rae Burrell, Julie Vanloo, and Alissa Pili. These offers, which provide the team with exclusive negotiating rights, are set at the league minimum salary of approximately $270,000 under the new CBA. While these players are not yet locked into long-term contracts, the offers give the Sparks leverage to retain them if they meet the team’s expectations.#los_angeles_sparks #kelsey_plum #wnba #collective_bargaining_agreement #core_designation

WNBA’s Offseason Intensifies as Free Agency Unfolds The WNBA’s free agency period has entered its fourth day, with significant movements shaping the league’s landscape. Free agent forward Satou Sabally confirmed she is not returning to the Phoenix Mercury after a single season with the franchise, leaving her future uncertain. Meanwhile, Nneka Ogwumike’s tenure with the Seattle Storm has concluded after two seasons, marking the end of a transformative chapter for the team. Ogwumike, a 10-time All-Star, revitalized the Storm, leading them to playoff appearances in 2024 and 2025 despite a first-round exit in the latter. Her departure follows the firing of head coach Noelle Quinn after the 2025 season. The Las Vegas Aces have solidified their roster by re-signing defending champion Kierstan Bell, who averaged 4.2 points and 1.8 rebounds in 35 games last season. Bell expressed excitement about returning to the team, emphasizing her commitment to the franchise’s success. Meanwhile, Aces superstar A’ja Wilson has confirmed her intent to stay in Las Vegas, with reports indicating she will re-sign on a $1.4 million supermax contract. Wilson’s decision underscores her role in the Aces’ recent dynasty, including their 2025 championship run. Other notable signings include free agent guard Breanna Stewart, who has chosen to remain with the New York Liberty, and Jackie Young, who is expected to return to the Aces on a one-year $1.19 million deal. Young’s return is critical to the Aces’ continued dominance, as she played a pivotal role in their 2025 championship series against the Phoenix Mercury. Trade activity has also intensified. The Dallas Wings traded forward Diamond Miller to the Connecticut Sun in exchange for center/forward Rayah Marshall.#las_vegas_aces #nneka_ogwumike #wnba #satou_sabally #seattle_storm

Sophie Cunningham’s future with the Caitlin Clark-led Indiana Fever remains uncertain as the team navigates a pivotal offseason. With Clark anchoring the franchise’s long-term vision, the focus has shifted to assembling a supporting cast that complements her impact. Cunningham, who played a key role last season, now faces a critical decision as the Fever balances financial constraints, roster priorities, and the competitive WNBA landscape. The situation took shape during the WNBA expansion draft, where Cunningham was not selected by either the Portland Fire or Toronto Tempo. Both new franchises opted for higher-profile free agents, leaving Cunningham unprotected. While this outcome was anticipated—given the limited number of unrestricted free agents each expansion team could target—it raised questions about her value to Indiana. The Fever’s decision to leave her unprotected was likely a calculated risk, as Cunningham’s shooting ability and physicality made her an attractive option for other teams. Before a season-ending knee injury cut her campaign short, she averaged 8.6 points per game, providing spacing and defensive toughness. Her role as a complementary player to Clark was evident, as she excelled in creating space off the ball, maintaining perimeter defense, and adding grit to the backcourt. Cunningham’s profile has grown significantly since joining the Fever, and her skills align with the demand for reliable wing shooters in free agency. Teams seeking a proven performer with experience could easily come calling, especially as the WNBA’s salary cap tightens. However, Indiana’s financial situation complicates her potential return.#caitlin_clark #wnba #indiana_fever #aliyah_boston #kelsey_mitchell

Sophie Cunningham's Free Agency Timeline: Key Dates for Indiana Fever Negotiations The Indiana Fever made significant roster adjustments ahead of Caitlin Clark’s second WNBA season, with one of the most impactful moves being the acquisition of Sophie Cunningham. In a four-team trade, the Fever surrendered NaLyssa Smith, a 2025 first-round pick, and a 2027 third-round pick to secure Cunningham’s talents. The decision proved fruitful, as Cunningham became a vital contributor for the team. During the 2025 season, she averaged 8.6 points on 46.9% shooting, along with 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.7 three-pointers per game. Beyond her statistical contributions, Cunningham emerged as a vocal leader and a physical presence on the court, often stepping into the role of the team’s enforcer. However, uncertainty now surrounds Cunningham’s future with the Fever. Her contract with the team has expired, making her an unrestricted free agent for the 2026 season. The situation took a concrete turn on Sunday night when ESPN reporter Alexa Philippou provided an update on WNBA free agency timelines. According to Philippou, the negotiation window between teams and players will open on Wednesday, with official signings allowed starting on Saturday. This means the Fever can begin formal talks with Cunningham as early as Wednesday, though no agreements will be finalized until she signs a new contract on Saturday at the earliest. Cunningham’s compensation last season was $100,000 with the Fever, a figure she will aim to surpass in 2026. The new Collective Bargaining Agreement, which took effect this season, has likely influenced her expectations for a more lucrative deal.#wnba #indiana_fever #kelsey_mitchell #sophie_cunningham #lexie_hull

Sophie Cunningham Takes on Broadcasting Role for 2026 WNBA Season Sophie Cunningham may not yet know where she’ll be playing for the 2026 WNBA season, but she has secured a new broadcasting role for the upcoming season. USA Network has added Cunningham to its coverage team, positioning her as a contributor for studio analysis during select games throughout the season. The network will broadcast 50 regular-season matchups, alongside the WNBA playoffs and Finals, as part of the league’s new media deal finalized in September 2025. A key highlight of the schedule will be weekly doubleheaders on Wednesdays, offering fans extended coverage of high-profile matchups. Cunningham’s transition to broadcasting aligns with her long-standing interest in the field. Earlier this year, she spoke with Sports Illustrated about her passion for sports commentary and her aspirations to build a career in broadcasting after retiring from professional basketball. While she is not expected to retire before the 2026 season, this role marks a strategic step toward her goal. Cunningham emphasized her enthusiasm for breaking down the game, stating, “I love sports. I love talking to people and learning their stories. I love the ‘why.’ When I get asked to commentate for basketball, I know the game, I have the IQ for it. I see plays, I see why they do different schemes. You get to break down these elite-level players and why they do what they do. I find it so fascinating, and I understand it. And, for some reason, people like to hear me break it down.” She also hinted at the possibility of a broadcasting career post-playing, saying, “Maybe there’s going to be a career there when I’m done playing basketball that that’s what I’ll get right into. I’m excited for that.#usa_network #wnba #indiana_fever #kelsey_mitchell #sophie_cunningham

The WNBA Expansion Draft Moves Forward, Leaving Boston Out of the Franchise Picture The WNBA held its expansion draft Friday, officially welcoming the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo as the league’s 14th and 15th franchises. This marks a significant step in the league’s growth, with plans to expand to 18 teams by 2030, including additions in Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029), and Philadelphia. However, Boston remains excluded from the WNBA’s expansion plans, a decision that has left fans and officials in the region frustrated. The league’s decision to move the Connecticut Sun to Houston, where it will be rebranded as the Houston Comets, has further complicated Boston’s chances. The Sun’s relocation was finalized after the 2026 season, with Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta acquiring the team for $300 million—a deal that fell short of a previous $325 million bid by former Milwaukee Bucks co-owner Marc Lasry to move the franchise to Hartford. The WNBA rejected both bids, citing its own governance process for relocation decisions. Boston’s attempts to secure a WNBA franchise have been met with resistance. A bid by former Celtics managing partner Steve Pagliuca to move the Sun to Boston was also rejected, with the league stating that relocation decisions are managed by its Board of Governors. Despite the city’s strong sports culture and the presence of the NBA’s Boston Celtics, the WNBA has not viewed Boston as a serious contender for a new franchise. The league’s preference for NBA owners like Fertitta reflects its strategy to align with existing franchises and leverage their resources. This approach has led to a focus on cities with established infrastructure and financial backing, leaving Boston in a backseat position.#wnba #portland_fire #toronto_tempo #tilman_fertitta #marc_lasry

Caitlin Clark's Salary Under New WNBA CBA Set to Surge Caitlin Clark, the star player for the Indiana Fever, is poised to see a dramatic increase in her earnings under the newly negotiated WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The league’s updated salary structure, which includes provisions like the "EPIC" (Exceptional Performance on Initial Contract) clause, is designed to reward high-performing players with faster pathways to max and supermax contracts. The new CBA introduces a minimum salary of $270,000, a significant jump from the previous supermax of $249,000. For Clark, this means her earnings will rise substantially. As a rookie in 2024, she earned $76,535, and her 2025 salary was $78,066. Under the old system, she would have been due $85,973 for her third season in 2026 and would have remained under contract until 2027. Now, she is projected to make $530,000 in 2026, a figure highlighted by ESPN’s Alexa Phillippou as an example of the EPIC provision. Clark’s salary is expected to climb further. If she maintains her All-WNBA team status, her 2027 salary could reach a projected maximum of $1.3 million. By 2028, she may qualify for a $1.7 million supermax deal. These figures reflect the league’s new approach to compensating players based on performance and early success, with the EPIC clause allowing top performers to bypass traditional salary progression timelines. The WNBA’s new salary cap, tied to league revenue, also plays a role in shaping future earnings. Current projections suggest the top salary could rise to $2.4 million by 2032, driven by revenue growth. This shift aligns with players’ demands during CBA negotiations, which emphasized fair compensation based on league profitability. Beyond base salaries, Clark is eligible for performance-based bonuses.#espn #caitlin_clark #wnba #indiana_fever #epic_clause

Minnesota Economy Teacher Uses WNBA as Real-World Example A Minnesota economics teacher is leveraging the recent developments in the WNBA to illustrate financial concepts and labor negotiations to her students. The Women’s National Basketball Association and its players’ union have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract, which includes a significant increase in player salaries. The proposed deal raises average salaries by nearly five times the current rate, marking a major shift in the league’s financial structure and labor relations. Marielle Mohs, an economics instructor at a Minnesota high school, has incorporated this real-world example into her curriculum to help students understand the complexities of wage negotiations, collective bargaining, and the economic impact of labor agreements. By analyzing the WNBA’s contract details, Mohs aims to connect classroom theory with practical scenarios, such as how teams balance profitability with player compensation and the broader implications for sports industries. The new contract, which is still subject to final approval, includes provisions for performance-based incentives, guaranteed minimum salaries, and expanded benefits for players. These changes reflect growing demands from athletes for fair pay and long-term security, particularly as the WNBA continues to expand its global reach and commercial appeal. Mohs explains that the league’s financial growth has created opportunities for higher wages, but the negotiations also highlight challenges such as revenue sharing, team competitiveness, and the role of sponsors in shaping player contracts. In her lessons, Mohs encourages students to evaluate the economic factors influencing the WNBA’s decision-making process.#minnesota #wnba #marielle_mohs #players_union #economics_teacher

WNBA Players Unanimously Approve New Collective Bargaining Agreement WNBA players have ratified the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the league, according to a statement from the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA). President Nneka Ogwumike announced the decision on ESPN’s “First Take,” confirming that the vote resulted in a unanimous yes. Over 90% of players participated in the ratification process, the union reported. The CBA now awaits approval from the WNBA Board of Governors, with voting expected to conclude soon. The agreement marks a significant milestone for the league and its players, with the WNBPA emphasizing that it reflects years of collaboration and a commitment to aligning player interests with the league’s growth. “This moment is the result of years of work and a shared belief that as the league rises, so must the players,” the union stated. The organization highlighted its focus on advocating for fair compensation and setting a precedent for future generations. The deal, finalized after negotiations, includes a groundbreaking revenue-sharing model. Under the new structure, the salary cap for the 2026 season will be $7 million, with annual adjustments based on league and team revenue growth. Projections indicate the cap could surpass $10 million by the end of the seven-year agreement. This model represents a first in women’s sports, ensuring teams and players benefit from shared financial success. Key provisions of the CBA also include increased maximum and minimum salaries, an expanded regular season set to begin in 2027, and continued housing support for players. The WNBA praised the agreement as “one of the most transformational labor agreements ever reached in major professional sports,” noting its role in securing the 2026 regular season’s start date of May 8.#wnba #wnbpa #nneka_ogwumike #first_take #wnba_board_of_governors