The WNBA's expansion draft 2026 is here. On April 3, 2026, the league's newest teams, the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, began the process of selecting players to form their inaugural rosters. The expansion draft is a pivotal moment in the WNBA, as these two new franchises will join the league, expanding the total number of teams to 15.
Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo: The Draft Order and Process
The expansion draft is a carefully orchestrated event. The Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo will draft players from existing WNBA teams, with the Fire receiving the seventh pick in the regular draft. The Tempo will draft second in the first round of expansion and first in the second round. Each existing WNBA team submitted a list of protected players, ensuring that key players remain with their original teams unless selected by the Fire or Tempo during the expansion draft. The draft process is designed to balance the needs of new franchises with the stability of established teams, ensuring a competitive and fair league expansion.
Player Selection and Protected Lists
All 13 existing WNBA teams submitted protection lists, naming players they wish to retain. These lists are crucial as they determine which players can be selected by the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo during the expansion draft. Top players like Bridget Carleton are likely to remain on their original teams, as they are often on the protected lists. This ensures that existing teams can retain their star players while allowing new franchises to build competitive rosters. The draft process itself will be a strategic chess match, with the new teams aiming to secure a mix of experienced veterans and promising young players. The expansion draft promises to be a thrilling event as the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo construct their inaugural rosters.
"The expansion draft is a critical moment for both the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo. It sets the foundation for their success in the WNBA and marks a significant step in the league's growth." - Expert Analyst, USA Today.
How to Watch the Expansion Draft
Fans eager to witness this historic event can tune in to ESPN to watch the expansion draft live. The draft is scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday, April 3, 2026. This event will be a pivotal moment in the WNBA's history, as the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo take the first steps toward building their teams and competing in the league.
Expect a flurry of moves as the two teams strategically select players to fill out their rosters. The expansion draft is an exciting time for WNBA fans, as it offers a glimpse into the future of the league and the potential for new rivalries and star players to emerge.
This historic WNBA draft marks the beginning of a new chapter in the league’s history. As the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo construct their inaugural rosters, fans are left to wonder: Which players will rise to the occasion and become the faces of these new teams?
