The WNBA launched its free agency period Monday, creating a busy marketplace with over 100 players available just seven days ahead of the 2026 WNBA Draft.
The unusually large pool of available talent stems from contracts that were linked to the former collective bargaining agreement’s 2025 expiration date, setting up what promises to be an intense week of negotiations.
Players entering free agency will benefit significantly from the recently agreed-upon CBA, which boosts team salary caps by $5.5 million. This increase translates to substantial pay raises for both seasoned veterans and incoming rookies.
The new agreement dramatically transforms rookie compensation, with the top draft selection now commanding $500,000 per year. This represents a massive jump from 2024, when Indiana Fever selected Caitlin Clark first overall for just over $76,000 annually.
Elite players like Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson stand to benefit enormously, with potential earnings climbing from approximately $200,000 to more than $1 million under the updated pay structure.
The free agency timeline spans several days, with Monday and Tuesday reserved for designation periods when teams can extend qualifying offers and identify core players. Negotiations between players and their agents are scheduled for Wednesday through Friday, with contract signings permitted starting Saturday.
Several marquee players have already announced their intentions, including Wilson who confirmed plans to remain with the Aces. New York Liberty stars Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu have similarly indicated they will continue with their current team.
