2026 WNBA playoffs: Complete rosters for all eight playoff teams

The 2026 WNBA season concluded its regular schedule with a tightly contested race, culminating in eight teams advancing to the postseason. This year’s playoffs reflect a league marked by competitive balance, as the difference between the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx and the eighth-seeded team is a mere seven games.

The season began with a historic expansion, welcoming the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, expanding the league to 15 teams. Despite this growth, only a little over half of the teams secured playoff berths, setting the stage for an intense postseason kickoff on Sunday, September 27.

The Minnesota Lynx emerged as the league’s best regular-season team, clinching the coveted No. 1 seed just days before the end of the regular season. This achievement grants them homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs, a critical factor given the parity across the league.

Paralleling the Lynx's rise, other teams have demonstrated resilience and depth, though not without challenges. Injuries have impacted several key players, shaping team strategies heading into the playoffs. The Las Vegas Aces’ starting forward NaLyssa Smith suffered a left leg injury late in August, sidelining her for the remainder of the season after a non-contact incident during a game against the Toronto Tempo.

Similarly, the Indiana Fever face the absence of center Damiris Dantas, who underwent surgery for a torn meniscus earlier in August. Her season-ending knee surgery removes a significant presence from the Fever’s frontline.

The Dallas Wings also contend with a notable injury, losing rookie Azzi Fudd, the first overall pick in the 2026 draft. Fudd underwent an arthroscopic procedure due to persistent right knee soreness in mid-August, ruling her out for the rest of the season.

Adding to the list of setbacks, the New York Liberty announced the departure of forward Satou Sabally from the game, citing a second major head injury within a year. Sabally's injury stemmed from an in-game collision with the Aces’ NaLyssa Smith in June, and subsequent evaluations led to her stepping away from basketball to prioritize her health.

These absences have tested the depth and adaptability of playoff teams, emphasizing the physical toll of a grueling season and amplifying the stakes of each postseason matchup. The rosters heading into the playoffs reflect a blend of emerging talent and veteran leadership, with teams adjusting lineups and strategies accordingly.

As the playoffs get underway, fans can expect a showcase of high-level basketball amid a field where no team holds an overwhelming advantage. The narrow margin separating the seeds underscores the unpredictability and excitement inherent in this year’s postseason race.

While details on specific playoff matchups and projected outcomes remain unfolding, the 2026 WNBA playoffs promise to highlight the league’s growth and competitive spirit. The convergence of expansion, injury challenges, and balanced talent sets the stage for a compelling battle for the championship.

Complete rosters and injury updates for each playoff contender have been compiled by usatoday.com, providing comprehensive insight into the teams’ compositions as they prepare for the playoff intensity ahead.