WNBA Sets Record with 216 Games in 2026

In a groundbreaking announcement, the WNBA revealed that a record 216 games will be broadcast during the upcoming 2026 season, marking a significant milestone in the league's 30-year history. This year, the WNBA has renewed its television partnerships with major networks including ABC/ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, CBS Television Network/Paramount+, ION, and NBA TV, while also welcoming new partners such as NBC/Peacock/NBCSN and USA Network.

"The WNBA is coming off a landmark season in 2025, one that was defined by incredible basketball and countless memorable performances," said WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert in a media release. With an exciting draft and numerous notable free-agency signings, the league is poised for a thrilling season ahead. Engelbert emphasized that the unprecedented lineup of broadcasting partners will highlight must-see matchups and showcase the remarkable skills of the league's stars.

ION will lead the way by broadcasting 50 games, the highest number of any partner, and will feature doubleheaders on Friday nights. USA Network, a new addition to the broadcasting team, will air 48 games, focusing on Monday and Wednesday nights. ABC/ESPN will honor the league's 30 seasons by airing 30 games, including a highly anticipated opening weekend doubleheader featuring the Indiana Fever against the Dallas Wings, as well as a rematch of the 2025 finals between the Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury, set to be broadcast on ABC on May 9.

In addition to traditional broadcasts, ESPN will introduce its Women’s Sports Sundays, a nine-week series showcasing WNBA and NWSL games, starting June 21. This new programming will fill the Sunday time slot previously occupied by "Sunday Night Baseball," reflecting the growing popularity of women's sports. Last season, ESPN's regular-season coverage averaged 1.3 million viewers per game, indicating a strong interest in women's basketball.

Prime Video, which has been streaming WNBA games for six seasons, will continue to provide coverage with 31 games, including all Commissioner’s Cup matchups. CBS and Paramount+ will broadcast 20 games, with eight of those in prime time on CBS. NBC, which aired the first WNBA game 30 years ago, will feature seven games, while NBA TV will showcase 15 games throughout the season.

Fans will have the opportunity to watch all 44 games of the Indiana Fever, allowing them to follow star player Caitlin Clark as she returns to the court after an injury cut her 2025 season short. With such a robust broadcasting schedule, the WNBA is set to captivate audiences and elevate the profile of women's basketball in the coming season.