WNBA Season Kicks Off May 8: Toronto Tempo Faces Mystics
The WNBA is set to launch its 2026 season on May 8, featuring the Toronto Tempo, the league’s newest franchise. This marks a significant milestone for the league, as Toronto will host the Washington Mystics in their inaugural game.
Overview of the 2026 WNBA Season
The 2026 season is set to be historic, as it commemorates the league’s 30th anniversary. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming schedule, highlighting the two new franchises, Toronto and Portland, joining the league. The season aims to celebrate the WNBA’s rich history and its future potential.
Key Dates and Games
Here are some important details regarding the 2026 season:
- Start Date: May 8, 2026
- Toronto Tempo’s First Game: May 8, 2026, against the Washington Mystics
- Portland Fire’s Debut: May 9, 2026, against the Chicago Fire
Game Schedule and Locations
The Toronto Tempo will play a total of 44 games during the season. Notable venues include:
| Location | Opponent | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Scotiabank Arena, Toronto | Phoenix Mercury | June 27 |
| Scotiabank Arena, Toronto | Minnesota Lynx | July 30 |
| Bell Centre, Montreal | Dallas Wings | July 10 |
| Bell Centre, Montreal | New York Liberty | July 12 |
| Rogers Arena, Vancouver | Portland Fire | August 21 |
| Rogers Arena, Vancouver | Las Vegas Aces | August 23 |
Additional Highlights of the Season
The WNBA has planned several key events throughout the season, including:
- Commissioner’s Cup: June 1 – June 17, title game on June 30
- All-Star Weekend: June 24-25, with the exhibition game on June 25 in Chicago
- FIBA Women’s World Cup Break: September 4-13, 2026
- Playoffs Start: September 27, 2026
General Manager Monica Wright Rogers expressed excitement about the new era of basketball in Toronto. She emphasized the competitive spirit that the Tempo will bring to Canadian fans.
This season not only focuses on exciting matchups but also on a collaborative effort between players and the league, as they negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement.
As May 8 approaches, fans can anticipate an energizing start to the WNBA season as the Toronto Tempo faces off against the Washington Mystics.
