WNBA Free Agency Frenzy: Top Stars Eyeing Big Paydays

The 2026 WNBA season is far from over, but a focus on the upcoming offseason is already evident, especially for teams out of playoff contention. Recent collective bargaining agreement changes have pushed WNBA salaries past the $1 million mark for the first time, creating lucrative opportunities for top players. Many prominent stars signed short-term contracts and will be seeking substantial paydays. This upcoming free agency period promises intense bidding wars as teams aim to retain their most valuable assets.

Teams are identifying their most crucial pending free agents. For the Minnesota Lynx, Napheesa Collier, an eight-year veteran and Defensive Player of the Year, is a top priority. The Indiana Fever will look to re-sign star scorer Kelsey Mitchell, who is having a career year. The Las Vegas Aces will focus on re-signing Jackie Young, a key player in their championship success. Other notable free agents include Kayla Thornton for the Golden State Valkyries and Brittney Griner, who may return to her native Houston with the Connecticut Sun.

Several teams are navigating the impending free agency with existing core players under long-term contracts. For instance, the Atlanta Dream and Washington Mystics have many key players secured through 2028. However, overlooked players like Sika Kone for the Dream and Betnijah Laney-Hamilton for the Mystics present different offseason considerations. Restricted free agents such as Pauline Astier (New York Liberty) and Awak Kuier (Dallas Wings) offer teams the option to match outside offers, potentially retaining talent.