The chase for the WNBA title begins — power rankings set the stage

The 2026 WNBA season is officially here. On Friday, the league opens its 30th season with more teams, more talent and perhaps more excitement than ever. As the action unfolds, there are several questions that will arise, including who will win it all .

Will the Las Vegas Aces earn their fourth championship in five seasons? Can the New York Liberty or the Phoenix Mercury make it back to the WNBA Finals? Or will a new team add its name to the history books?

The answers to those questions remain a mystery, but the rosters for each team might provide some insight into who has the best chance to win a title. Here are USA TODAY'S power rankings with projected starters, most surprising cuts and final rosters: 1. Las Vegas Aces 2025 record: 30-14 (WNBA Finals champions) Projected starting five: Chelsea Gray, G, 5-11; Jackie Young, G, 6-0; A'ja Wilson, C, 6-3; Stephanie Talbot, F, 6-2; NaLyssa Smith, F, 6-4 Most surprising cut: N/A Roster 0 Jackie Young | G, 6-0, 7 years 1 Kierstan Bell | F, 6-1, 4 years 2 Janiah Barker | F, 6-4, Rookie 3 NaLyssa Smith | F, 6-4, 4 years 7 Stephanie Talbot | F, 6-2, 7 years 11 Dana Evans | G, 5-6, 5 years 12 Chelsea Gray | G, 5-11, 11 years 21 Brianna Turner | F/C, 6-3, 7 years 22 A'ja Wilson | C, 6-3, 8 years 23 Chennedy Carter | G, 5-9, 4 years 24 Jewell Loyd | G, 5-11, 11 years 32 Cheyenne Parker-Tyus | F, 6-4, 11 years 2.

New York Liberty 2025 record: 27-17 (lost in first round) Projected starting five: Sabrina Ionescu, G, 5-11; Breanna Stewart, F, 6-4; Jonquel Jones, C, 6-6; Leonie Fiebich, F, 6-4; Satou Sabally, F, 6-4 Most surprising cut: F Anneli Maley. Shey had a decent preseason, averaging 13 points on 48% shooting, 6. 5 rebounds across two games.