The 2026 WNBA expansion draft occurred on April 1, 2026, with the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo each selecting 11 players. Bridget Carleton was chosen as the No. 1 pick by the Portland Fire, while the Toronto Tempo selected Julie Allemand as the No. 2 pick.
Both teams had the opportunity to select one unrestricted free agent, with Portland opting for Carleton and Toronto selecting Marina Mabrey. The expansion draft was delayed due to labor negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement, which added to the anticipation surrounding the event.
Portland Fire’s roster includes Maya Caldwell and Sug Sutton, while Toronto Tempo has added players such as Marina Mabrey and Nyara Sabally. Each team strategically built their roster, ensuring a competitive edge as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Neither team selected players from the Chicago Sky, having opted instead to complete trades with the franchise to protect their unprotected players. This decision reflects the careful planning both teams undertook leading up to the draft.
The 2026 WNBA offseason began with this expansion draft, marking a significant moment for the league as it expands its footprint. The collegiate draft is scheduled for April 13, 2026, followed by training camp starting on April 19, 2026.
As the league continues to grow, the addition of the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo is expected to enhance the level of competition in the WNBA. The Lynx, in particular, will feel the impact of losing talent like Carleton to the Fire.
Overall, the expansion draft set the stage for an exciting new chapter in the WNBA, with both teams looking to make their mark in the league. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these new rosters will perform in the upcoming season.
