In a landmark event for women’s basketball, the 2026 WNBA expansion draft took place on April 1, 2026, with the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo making their inaugural selections. Bridget Carleton was chosen as the No. 1 overall pick by the Portland Fire, while the Toronto Tempo followed closely, selecting Julie Allemand as the No. 2 pick.
Both teams successfully selected 11 players during the draft, a pivotal moment as they build their rosters. The Portland Fire’s selections included notable players such as Maya Caldwell and Sug Sutton, while the Toronto Tempo secured talents like Marina Mabrey and Nyara Sabally.
Each expansion team was permitted to select only one unrestricted free agent, with the Portland Fire opting for Bridget Carleton and the Toronto Tempo selecting Marina Mabrey. This strategic choice highlights the teams’ focus on integrating experienced players into their new lineups.
The expansion draft was initially delayed due to labor negotiations surrounding a new collective bargaining agreement, which added an element of uncertainty to the proceedings. Nevertheless, the event proceeded with both teams making calculated decisions to enhance their rosters.
Neither the Portland Fire nor the Toronto Tempo selected players from the Chicago Sky, as both franchises opted to complete trades with Chicago prior to the draft. This maneuver ensured that neither team would lose their unprotected players, showcasing the strategic planning involved in the expansion process.
As the WNBA continues to grow, the expansion draft serves as a critical step in the league’s evolution. The selection of players like Carleton has raised eyebrows, with some experts noting that the Minnesota Lynx lost serious talent with her departure.
Looking ahead, the collegiate draft is scheduled for April 13, 2026, followed by the start of training camp on April 19, 2026. These upcoming events will further shape the rosters of the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo as they prepare for their inaugural season.
The 2026 WNBA offseason began with this expansion draft, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in the league’s history. As teams finalize their rosters, the anticipation builds for how these new franchises will perform in the upcoming season.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full impact of the trades and selections made during the draft, but the excitement surrounding the expansion teams is palpable among fans and analysts alike.
