How To Watch WNBA All-Star 2026, Schedule & Streaming Info

The upcoming 2026 WNBA All-Star Weekend is set to deliver a refreshed and dynamic celebration of women's basketball, marked by innovative competitions, prominent figures, and an upgraded setting. Scheduled over two days in late July, this event highlights the league’s commitment to showcasing both established veterans and emerging talent.

Departing from tradition, the weekend introduces the Shooting Stars competition, a novel timed shooting challenge replacing the usual skills contest. This event assembles four teams, each anchored by WNBA legends alongside current All-Stars and promising rookies. Noteworthy Hall of Famers and multi-time MVPs such as Elena Delle Donne and Lauren Jackson spearhead the teams, bridging the league's storied past with its vibrant present.

The competition’s structure challenges each team to score as many points as possible from seven distinct court positions within a 70-second timeframe. The top two teams from the initial round proceed to a final championship shootout. This format not only tests precision and speed but also fosters teamwork across generations, as high school standouts from the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League join forces with professional stars.

The Shooting Stars event, along with the Three-Point Contest, is slated for Friday evening, July 24, at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Fans can tune in via ESPN or stream through platforms including Disney+, fubo, and the ESPN app. The venue for these competitions, Wintrust Arena in Chicago, serves as home court to the Chicago Sky and provides a fitting urban backdrop for this celebration of elite women’s basketball.

Controversy has emerged around the Three-Point Contest, as reports surfaced regarding the absence of marquee sharpshooters Caitlin Clark, Kayla McBride, and reigning champion Sabrina Ionescu. While initial claims suggested these stars declined participation, Ionescu publicly disputed the narrative, stating she was never extended an invitation. Despite these absences, the contest retains a competitive field featuring players like rookie sensation Azzi Fudd and other notable shooters from various teams.

The weekend’s pinnacle event, the All-Star Game, takes place on Saturday, July 25, at 8:30 p.m. Eastern, broadcast live on ABC and available for streaming on ESPN and affiliated platforms. This marks a significant venue upgrade as the All-Star Game moves to the United Center in Chicago, a location known for its vast capacity and historic association with professional basketball.

Leadership on the sidelines includes celebrated coaches Cheryl Reeve of the Minnesota Lynx and Becky Hammon of the Las Vegas Aces, both bringing championship experience to their teams. The rosters for the game are managed by legendary WNBA figures Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon, adding gravitas and recognition to the event.

This year’s All-Star Weekend underscores the WNBA's increasing visibility and influence within the broader sports landscape. By integrating hall-of-famers, rising rookies, and youth athletes into a competitive and fan-friendly format, the league continues to engage diverse audiences and expand its global footprint.

As the event approaches, fans and followers can expect a weekend filled with thrilling basketball action, historic milestones, and a celebration of the league’s vibrant community. The 2026 WNBA All-Star Weekend remains a key fixture in women's sports, spotlighting athletic excellence and the evolving culture of professional basketball.