A UConn reunion and Caitlin Clark’s return: WNBA storylines to follow in season 30 | Jordan Robinson

From the Dallas Wings’ big moves to the most valuable team, here’s what we’ll be watching as the 2026 campaign begins on Friday

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I’ve been obsessed with basketball for as long as I can remember (and have played it since I was five). Now, I cover the sport full-time. I co-wrote a book on the history of women’s hoops, Court Queens, and host the Audacy podcast The Women’s Hoops Show. I grew up a Sacramento Monarchs fan, and proudly own the signature sneakers of Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu and A’ja Wilson. (Angel Reese, you’re next.) The WNBA is celebrating its historic 30th season this year, and I’ll be here every Tuesday covering the past, present and future of the game in this newsletter. Think of it as my exclusive WNBA diary, filling you in on the 4-1-1 of my favorite league. I can’t wait.

As someone who celebrated my 30th birthday ahead of the league (not telling how long ahead), I can confidently say it’s a big deal. I, too, aimed to make more money and prioritize stability over hustle; WNBA players have signed million-dollar contracts for the first time, thanks to a new collective bargaining agreement. Some players, such as Atlanta’s Rhyne Howard, saw a 1,389% pay increase ($75,556 to $1.1m in her new three-year deal). In your 30s, you truly know your worth and come into your own. It’s fun to see the league mirror that, too.