Ranking every WNBA team's starting fives in 2026, from new-look Liberty to Angel Reese-inspired Dream

There are more teams, larger contracts and more storylines to follow than ever before. Given all the transactions that took place in the offseason, one could be forgiven if they were a little unsure how WNBA rosters look at present. We know A'ja Wilson and the Aces are slated to compete for more gold -- both individually and collectively -- in the seasons to come.

We know the likes of the Liberty and Fever should emerge as valuable bulwarks to Las Vegas' capabilities. And we know that the Storm, Mystics and expansion franchises should all be in the mix for a lottery pick come the end of next season. But just which WNBA core reigns supreme?

Which starting unit is the most capable of leading its team towards championship contention? And which rosters are imposters, lacking in any real ability to impose their will on their adversaries? The Sporting News is ranking every team's projected starting five.

Follow below for a warm look at the best and worst starting units in the WNBA in 2026. MORE: Complete results and analysis for every pick in Round 1 Ranking every WNBA team's starting fives 1. Liberty Projected starting lineup: G Sabrina Ionescu G Natasha Cloud F Satou Sabally F Breanna Stewart C Jonquel Jones New York takes its place atop the WNBA ladder, its starting lineup adorned in diamonds.