The WNBA returns with a new collective bargaining agreement and million-dollar players as the Las Vegas Aces look to defend their title under reigning MVP A’ja Wilson, with opening games scheduled for Oct. 31, 2026, featuring matchups like the Atlanta Dream at the Golden State Valkyries broadcast on USA Network, Peacock, and CNBC, according to USA TODAY.
Las Vegas Aces Defend Crown Under MVP A’ja Wilson
The WNBA is back on the court with a new collective bargaining agreement and million-dollar players. The Las Vegas Aces enter the season looking to run it back as defending champions. Reigned MVP A’ja Wilson leads the way for the squad, anchoring a roster built to withstand a hungry field of challengers.
Other contenders hope to have something to say about that dominance. The Atlanta Dream, New York Liberty, and Indiana Fever all enter the new campaign with high ambitions and revamped rosters following a busy offseason.
Roster Shifts and Injury Concerns for Contenders
The Indiana Fever head into the season fully healthy after playing much of last year without floor leader Caitlin Clark. Meanwhile, the New York Liberty have already hit early turbulence. The team was bitten by the injury bug last season, and they already have Sabrina Ionescu sidelined after she rolled her ankle in a preseason game against the Connecticut Sun, USA TODAY reported.
The Atlanta Dream pulled off the trade of the offseason by acquiring Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky. That blockbuster addition injects fresh talent into a roster that already secured 30 wins last season.
Golden State Valkyries Host Atlanta Dream on Opening Night
The full WNBA schedule tips off on Oct. 31, 2026. Fans can track scores and results through the official basketball schedule to filter games by team or conference. USA TODAY Studio IX provides ongoing women’s sports hub coverage with in-depth analysis and commentary.
The opening night slate features the Atlanta Dream visiting the Golden State Valkyries at 8 p.m. Eastern time. Viewers can watch the matchup live on USA Network, Peacock, and CNBC, or stream games all season long with Fubo.
Frequently Asked Questions About the WNBA Tipoff
Where can I watch the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries game?
The Oct. 31, 2026 matchup broadcasts on USA Network, Peacock, and CNBC starting at 8 p.m. Eastern time, with streaming options available via Fubo.
Which player did the Atlanta Dream acquire in the offseason?
The Atlanta Dream traded for Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky to strengthen a roster that won 30 games last season.
What injury is affecting the New York Liberty early in the schedule?
Guard Sabrina Ionescu is currently on the sidelines after rolling her ankle during a preseason game against the Connecticut Sun.