WNBA Free Agency: Latest Deals and News

The WNBA is currently navigating one of the most transformative free agency periods in the league’s history, triggered by a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) verbally agreed upon on March 18, 2026. This agreement has led to a dramatic shift in the league’s financial landscape, with the salary cap reportedly soaring from $1.5 million to $7 million.

The increased cap has allowed for unprecedented contract figures as more than 100 players reached free agency. Many of these contracts were timed to expire specifically to align with the implementation of the new CBA, ensuring players could secure the highest salaries in the history of the league.

High-Profile Moves and Strategic Shifts

Among the most significant developments, Brittney Griner is finalizing a seven-figure deal to join the Connecticut Sun. Griner spent the 2025 season with the Atlanta Dream following her departure from the Phoenix Mercury, but her time in Atlanta was marked by a diminished role.

Under Dream coach Karl Smesko, the nine-time All-Star made only 25 starts and averaged a career-low 9.8 points per game. The move to Connecticut is viewed as a strategic shift, particularly given the Sun’s pending relocation. After the 2026 season, the franchise will move south to become the second iteration of the Houston Comets, providing Griner, a Houston native, the opportunity to play in her hometown starting in 2027.

In another major move, Nneka Ogwumike is returning to the Los Angeles Sparks.

Key Re-signings and Roster Changes

Several teams have focused on retaining core talent through lucrative new deals. Jordin Canada has re-signed with the Atlanta Dream on a two-year contract valued at more than $1.2 million.

The Chicago Sky have secured all-defensive center Elizabeth Williams, who agreed to a fully guaranteed two-year deal worth $1.2 million.

The Minnesota Lynx have seen key departures as players seek new opportunities under the new salary cap. Jessica Shepard, who spent all five seasons of her career with the Lynx, has agreed to a multiyear deal with the Dallas Wings. Similarly, Natisha Hiedeman has agreed to a two-year contract with the Seattle Storm.

Kelsey Mitchell is in the process of finalizing a one-year agreement.

League Expansion and Compressed Timeline

The 2026 offseason has been notably compressed due to the timing of the CBA negotiations. The league was required to conduct an expansion draft, the free agency period, and the WNBA draft in a short window before the 30th season tips off on May 8, 2026.

This period follows the conclusion of expansion drafts for the league’s newest franchises, the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire. While the pool of available talent is vast, some of the league’s top stars, including Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, have already taken themselves off the market.