WNBA 2026 Expansion Draft explained in simple words: protected lists, draft rules, and mock picks for Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia. See which players might actually switch teams.
The WNBA 2026 Expansion Draft is shaping up to be one of the biggest moments in women’s hoops history. With Cleveland, Detroit, and Philly all jumping into the league, fans can’t stop talking about who stays, who leaves, and how the rules even work.
Expansion drafts always bring chaos. Someone’s fav player might get left out, some vet might finally get more minutes, and yeah… surprises will def come. Let’s go step by step — the rules, protected lists, and some fun mock draft picks.
WNBA 2026 Expansion Draft Rules (Quick Breakdown)
The league already shared the structure so things stay fair. Here’s the easy version:
- Protected Lists: Every current team can keep 6 players safe. The rest? They’re open.
- One Player Limit: Each existing team can only lose one player max.
- Contracts Count: Even rookies and players on expiring deals can be exposed, unless the team protects them.
- Draft Order: Cleveland picks 1st, then Detroit, then Philly — in snake style rounds.
- Roster Needs: Each new team has to grab 10 players min, but they can also swing trades.
So yeah, it’s basically a chess game. Teams protect their stars but some solid role players get left hanging.
Hypothetical Protected Lists (just guesses tho)
Official lists won’t come out til draft week, but it’s fun to think who’d be protected.
- Las Vegas Aces → obviously keep A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, and Plum. Meaning someone like Kierstan Bell could slip away.
- New York Liberty → Stewart, Sabrina, Jonquel Jones, Betnijah Laney, Vandersloot — all safe. Kayla Thornton tho? maybe exposed.
- Minnesota Lynx → Napheesa Collier, Diamond Miller no question. But what about Kayla McBride? She could get left open.
And that’s the drama — expansion squads usually find gold in those “not-protected-but-still-good” players.
Mock Draft Picks for Cleveland, Detroit & Philly
Okay, so let’s dream it out — who might land where in the WNBA 2026 Expansion Draft?
Cleveland Guardians (Pick 1)
- Kayla McBride (Lynx) — veteran vibes, can score, solid locker room leader.
- Kierstan Bell (Aces) — young, athletic, championship-tested.
- Dana Evans (Sky) — instant spark plug off the bench.
Cleveland feels like they’d go for a balance of vets + youth.
Detroit Shock (Pick 2)
- Kayla Thornton (Liberty) — defensive bulldog, fits Detroit’s gritty vibe.
- Ruthy Hebard (Sky) — strong in the paint, still has more to give.
- Arella Guirantes (Storm) — sneaky scorer, could break out if given real minutes.
Detroit fans would love that old-school toughness vibe back.
Philadelphia Freedom (Pick 3)
- Chennedy Carter (Dream) — risky but man she can put buckets up fast.
- Azurá Stevens (Sparks) — tall, stretches the floor, experienced.
- Crystal Dangerfield (Wings) — solid passer, good role player with playoff reps.
Philly might roll the dice on potential — and honestly, Carter in Philly? That could be fireworks.
Why This Draft Actually Matters
This ain’t just about 3 new logos. Adding Cleveland, Detroit, and Philly means more jobs, new rivalries, and more storylines. Expansion drafts always shake things up, and history shows some “forgotten” players end up thriving big time in new jerseys.
Picture it: Cleveland making a playoff push in year one with a veteran star. Or Philly becoming that surprise team everyone hates playing against. That’s why this thing is huge.
Extra Reads
- Official updates: WNBA
- Also Read: Latest Trending News
FAQs on WNBA 2026 Expansion Draft
Q1: When is the WNBA 2026 Expansion Draft happening?
It’s set for the offseason, just before the 2026 season tips.
Q2: How many players do the new teams get?
At least 10 each, tho trades can change how rosters look.
Q3: Could superstars like Stewie or A’ja actually be picked?
Nah, no way — their teams will 100% protect them.
Q4: Do rookies get pulled into this draft?
Nope. They only come through the regular WNBA Draft.
Q5: Which of the 3 new teams might win early?
Cleveland, prob. They pick first and that’s a big edge.
Final Thoughts
The WNBA 2026 Expansion Draft is gonna be wild. Between the protected lists, draft rules, and crazy mock picks for Cleveland, Detroit & Philly, fans should buckle up for a very fun offseason.
And honestly? Some players are about to get that second chance they’ve been waiting for — and that’s what makes expansion beautiful.
