The WNBA will increase its regular season to 50 games starting in 2027, marking the largest schedule in league history. This represents a six-game jump from the current 44-game format and follows years of steady growth since the league's 28-game inaugural season in 1997. The expansion responds to surging fan interest and viewership numbers that have reached unprecedented levels.

The schedule extension stems from the league's new collective bargaining agreement, which also secured a $2.2 billion media rights deal and paved the way for six expansion teams between 2024 and 2030. Players will benefit from significantly increased compensation under the new agreement. Season timing shifts as well, with the 2027 campaign concluding by November 21 rather than the previous October 31 deadline.

Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said the move reflects 'extraordinary momentum' across the league and demonstrates commitment to growing the product. The league retains flexibility to expand further to 52 games beginning in 2029, pending additional negotiations. These changes position the WNBA for continued growth while providing more opportunities for fans to engage with top-tier basketball.

The 2026 season currently runs from May 8 through September 24, with Finals wrapping up by October 31. This transitional period sets the stage for the historic schedule expansion that will reshape how fans experience professional women's basketball for years to come.