Sabrina Ionescu has announced her plans to stay with the New York Liberty as the WNBA free agency period opens on April 11, 2026. This decision comes amid significant changes in the league, including a dramatic increase in the salary cap from $1.5 million to $7 million for the upcoming season.
The new collective bargaining agreement, finalized last month between the WNBA and its players’ union, will also see supermax contracts rise to $1.4 million from around $250,000. Minimum salaries are set to exceed $300,000, with the average salary projected to be around $600,000.
Breanna Stewart, a prominent figure in the league, remarked, “Good luck to everybody else in free agency, but I’m not a part of that,” indicating a similar commitment to her current team. Meanwhile, A’ja Wilson stated, “I’m not leaving Vegas, so I’m not looking anywhere,” reflecting a trend among top players to remain loyal to their franchises.
As the WNBA prepares for the collegiate draft on April 13, 2026, and training camps opening on April 19, 2026, the excitement surrounding the upcoming season is palpable. The regular season is set to begin on May 8, 2026, promising fans an action-packed year.
With these changes, the league is poised for growth and increased competitiveness. Observers are keenly watching how these financial adjustments will impact team dynamics and player movements in the coming weeks.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional signings or trades that may occur as teams strategize for the new season.