Las Vegas Aces president Nikki Fargas has called the upcoming WNBA free agency an unprecedented challenge. With most players about to become free agents and the need for an expansion draft, the league is preparing for a period of uncertainty.
You’ll need to have Plan A, Plan B, and 9-1-1. There’s nothing normal about this offseason, so you can’t look at it from a normal perspective.
The situation is further complicated by the need for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the league and the players. The success of the franchises will depend on their ability to adapt to multiple scenarios and strategies.
Veteran Satou Sabally, newly arrived at Phoenix Mercury, highlights the importance of players’ decisions. Factors such as the pursuit of a championship or the priority of maximizing income will influence their choices.
Here, we analyze some teams that could experience significant changes, as well as those that will seek to keep their core intact.
Teams with Possible Drastic Changes
Dallas Wings: With Paige Bueckers as a rising star, Dallas focuses on consolidating its project. The main unknown is the future of Arike Ogunbowale, a key figure in the team. In addition, the team has young prospects that could provide depth, while salary flexibility allows them to aspire to important signings.Golden State Valkyries: After a successful first year that included playoffs, the Valkyries could attract renowned stars. They are expected to try to retain their top scorers, Kayla Thornton and Veronica Burton.Chicago Sky: Despite injuries, GM Jeff Pagliocca anticipates changes to the roster. Re-signing Ariel Atkins and the return of Courtney Vandersloot are priorities. Angel Reese’s situation, however, generates uncertainty.Arike Ogunbowale averaged 15.5 points and 4.1 assists in 29 games this season. Could the guard leave Dallas after seven seasons?
Teams Seeking Stability
Atlanta Dream: With a winning record in the previous season, the team seeks to retain its key free agents, such as Allisha Gray, Brionna Jones, and Jordin Canada. Brittney Griner’s continuity could also be an important factor.Indiana Fever: Despite injuries, the team was close to the WNBA Finals. Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston still have rookie contracts. The priority is to re-sign Kelsey Mitchell, who had an outstanding season.Las Vegas Aces: The Aces are confident in keeping their pillars: A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray. The team’s stability, along with coach Becky Hammon, has been key to their success.Phoenix Mercury: The team’s chemistry, with Sabally, Alyssa Thomas, and Kahleah Copper, was fundamental in reaching the WNBA Finals. Keeping these key players is a goal.Washington Mystics: With young prospects like Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen, the team is focusing on rebuilding. With three first-round draft picks in the 2026 draft, Washington could strengthen its roster.The renewal of Kelsey Mitchell, who has played her entire career in Indiana, is a priority for the Fever.
Teams with an Uncertain Future
Connecticut Sun: The team seeks to rebuild its base with young talents. GM Morgan Tuck will have to decide which players will complement this core. In addition, the team’s situation beyond 2026 could influence free agent decisions.Los Angeles Sparks: With stars like Kelsey Plum and Dearica Hamby, the team aims to return to the playoffs. The management will have to determine what changes are necessary to achieve this, prioritizing defensive improvement.Minnesota Lynx: After a disappointing loss in the semifinals, the team could make changes. Napheesa Collier’s continuity is expected, but they could look for reinforcements for the forward position and a “pure” point guard.New York Liberty: With a new coach, the team seeks to maintain its core: Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones. The management will evaluate who will be Ionescu’s best partner at the point guard position.Seattle Storm: Following the departure of coach Noelle Quinn, the team’s future will depend on the new coach. With young players like Dominique Malonga and free agents like Ezi Magbegor, Nneka Ogwumike, and Skylar Diggins, the team could experience significant changes.GM Jonathan Kolb is confident that Liberty players Sabrina Ionescu, Breanna Stewart, and Jonquel Jones will return. However, the team could have a very different supporting cast in New York.
