WNBA Draft Lottery Date Announced
The WNBA disclosed on Friday the scheduled date for the 2026 WNBA Draft Lottery, providing more clarity on the league's calendar amid ongoing collective bargaining talks.
Collective Bargaining Negotiations
The league and the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) are continuing to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement after agreeing to extend the current one by 30 days. This extension is crucial as players seek substantial financial improvements in a league where the supermax salary caps at $249,244, aiming for a larger share of basketball-related income.
League Operations and Calendar
Despite ongoing negotiations, the commissioner's office, led by Cathy Engelbert, must maintain league operations and the calendar. Two expansion teams, the Portland Fire and the Toronto Tempo, are set to join the league in 2026 with rosters to be filled through a special expansion draft.
Draft Lottery Details
The announcement of the draft lottery date represents a potential step toward finalizing the league's calendar and indicates progress in the talks. The WNBA revealed that ESPN will broadcast the draft lottery at 6:30 p.m.
Teams Competing for #1 Pick
- Chicago Sky
- Dallas Wings
- Minnesota Lynx
- Seattle Storm
- Washington Mystics
The Dallas Wings are favored to secure the coveted number one pick.
The WNBA revealed the draft lottery will be broadcast on ESPN starting at 6:30 p.m.
“The Wings will enter lottery night as the favorites to secure that precious #1 selection.”
Author's summary: The WNBA sets the 2026 Draft Lottery date amid ongoing CBA talks, with expansion teams joining and the Dallas Wings favored for the top pick.