Return to the Windy City
After a three-year hiatus, the WNBA All-Star Game makes its highly anticipated return to Chicago. As the league commemorates its 30th anniversary season, the city prepares to host the All-Star festivities for the second time. The event is set to feature marquee talents such as A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers, who will take center stage to showcase their elite skills.
Event Venue and Schedule
The centerpiece of the weekend, the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, at the United Center. While Wintrust Arena hosted the 2022 All-Star event, this year’s move to the United Center—home of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks—allows for a significantly larger crowd, with a capacity exceeding 23,000 spectators. Furthermore, official league practices and media sessions will be held at the recently opened Obama Presidential Center.
Weekend Itinerary
- Thursday, July 23: The WNBA Live fan festival kicks off at McCormick Place (4–8 p.m. ET).
- Friday, July 24: WNBA Live continues (9 a.m.–6 p.m. ET), followed by Skills Night at Wintrust Arena at 8 p.m. ET, featuring the 3-point contest and the Shooting Stars event.
- Saturday, July 25: WNBA Live concludes (9 a.m.–6 p.m. ET), leading up to the main All-Star Game at 8:30 p.m. ET at the United Center.
Roster Composition
The 2026 rosters were determined by two honorary general managers, Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon, who drafted their respective teams. Following a coin toss, Clark and Bueckers were assigned as the foundation for the two squads.
Team Cynthia Cooper: Featuring starters Paige Bueckers, Breanna Stewart, Kelsey Mitchell, Natasha Howard, and Gabby Williams, with reserves including Angel Reese, Marina Mabrey, Dominique Malonga, Kelsey Plum, Kaleah Copper, Jackie Young, and Sonia Citron.
Team Teresa Weatherspoon: Featuring starters Caitlin Clark, A'ja Wilson, Olivia Miles, Aliyah Boston, and Jessica Shepard, with reserves Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, Jonquel Jones, Courtney Williams, Kiki Iriafen, and Nneka Ogumike.
Competition and Financial Incentives
The weekend includes highly competitive side events. The 3-Point Contest features competitors such as Rhyne Howard and Marina Mabrey, while the Shooting Stars challenge will showcase legends like Elena Delle Donne and Lauren Jackson alongside current stars.
Players now benefit from a substantial increase in compensation under the current CBA. Participation in the All-Star Game nets players $15,000, with a $20,000 bonus for the MVP. Additional prize money is provided by Aflac, which adds significant supplemental pools for winners of the 3-point contest and skills competitions.
How to Watch
Fans can catch all the action live on ABC and Disney+. Pre-game coverage via WNBA Countdown will be broadcast on ESPN and ABC thirty minutes prior to tip-off, with both networks also hosting post-game analysis.