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The WNBA Turns 30! How the League is Celebrating with Merchandise, Court Designs & More!

Sara Jane Gamelli 438 April 7, 2026Fact checked by: Ronnie Flores No Comments

The WNBA is set to embark on its 30th anniversary tour, celebrating history in fun and unique ways. All season long, the WNBA will honor the past, present, and future.

New York Liberty v Los Angeles Sparks WNBA 1997 Inaugural season
Β (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/WNBAE/Getty Images)

Over 30 years, there have been defining moments forever etched in the history books. Since its founding in April 1996, the WNBA's journey hasn't always been smooth. There were several defunct franchises, low salaries, limited conditions, and a lack of visibility. But through all those hard times, the league conquered, and now we are honoring year 30.

It's a celebration of the trailblazing players and coaches who paved the way for present and future generations to come.

2026 WNBA Offseason: 2026 WNBA Free Agency Tracker |Β Collective Bargaining Agreement DealΒ |Β Angel Reese Traded to Atlanta DreamΒ |Β WNBA Expansion Draft | Player Contracts (East) | Player Contracts (West)

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The inaugural WNBA Draft in 1997 produced legendary women across eight original teams. Renowned players like Lisa Leslie, Cynthia Cooper, Sheryl Swoopes, Rebecca Lobo, and Teresa Weatherspoon emerged. From the moment Tina Thompson was selected first overall, the league gained deeply devoted fans and a strong legacy built on pioneers, rivalries, and iconic players who helped shape the game.

The Houston Comets Dynasty

The Houston Comets etched themselves as one of the most decorated franchises in history. Considered the WNBA's first-ever dynasty, the team won four consecutive championships from 1997 to 2000. Under head coach Van Chancellor, Houston assembled one of the most famous rosters to date. From LeBron James, Chris Bosh, and Dwyane Wade in South Beachβ€”to Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Toni Kukoč in the Windy Cityβ€”there's been chatter over the years about the NBA's greatest three-headed monsters.

What's been overlooked is the Comets' foundation for success. To date, Houston arguably introduced one of the greatest trios of all time in Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson, and Cynthia Cooper. Houston built a dynasty, albeit a short-lived one.

Although the franchise folded in 2008, the Comets will be revived, and the league announced the Connecticut Sun will relocate to Houston in 2027.

Growth Driven by Inequality

While the WNBA's entire legacy doesn't rest on the Comets' shoulders, they were pegged as the pillar for success. Since the league has experienced turbulence, the most historic collective bargaining agreement landed the plane. For decades, the WNBA has produced icons such as Candace Parker, Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore, Sue Bird, A'ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and more. Nonetheless, the players weren't receiving adequate salaries, facilities, or revenue share.

In fact, most of them didn't have their own locker rooms or hotel rooms. It wasn't until 2024 that the WNBA introduced charter flights. That was the most crucial topic two years ago, and look at the progress today.

Several players, such as Taurasi and Stewart, played overseas to supplement their incomes. Especially Taurasi, who was paid a significant amount to lace up for Spartak Moscow in Russia. While Taurasi lived a successful and lavish lifestyle, it came with a risk following owner Shabtai Kalmanovich's assassination. Taurasi, a three-part docuseries on Prime Video, further elaborates on her time overseas.

The Caitlin Clark Era

The arrival of Caitlin Clark in 2024 propelled the WNBA into further ascension. Achieving historical growth in attendance, social media, merchandise, and ticket sales, the league skyrocketed in popularity. Players such as Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers became household names, and it's important to recognize the wide array of talent already established in the league.

JuJu Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo, Lauren Betts, Azzi Fudd, Madison Booker, Olivia Miles, Flau'jae Johnson, and other prominent NCAA stars will shape the league's future. And many of them will reap the benefits of the new CBA. The average salary in 2000 was barely $50,000, while the median salary in 2025 was just north of $102,000.

Through long, intense hours and days of CBA negotiations, the players understood their worth and battle-tested the WNBA. It's not so much about the present as it is about future prosperity. While many will enjoy the rewards, it's as much about the money as it is about honoring the past. With a maximum salary set for $1.5 million and a revenue-sharing system tied to the salary cap, it's a testament to the players' persistence and the WNBA's expansion. With the life of the deal expected to run through 2032, the new deal signals one of the most transformational CBAs in sports history.

I was just seven years old when the WNBA was introduced to the world. To witness not only the league survive tumultuous times, but also reach the other side is incredible. Consequently, the league will bring back the past through relocation and expansion to Houston, Detroit, Cleveland, and Portland.

Inside the WNBA's 30th Season!

What a full-circle moment. Let's talk about the awesome ways the WNBA will celebrate its 30th season...

The 2026 season will feature a 44-game season, beginning with a northeast showdown between the Connecticut Sun and New York Liberty. This will be followed by a clash between Paige Bueckers (Dallas Wings) and Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever) on May 9. With several matchups moved to bigger networks and venues, the Sun will bid farewell to the Nutmeg State for its final season.

β€œSeason 30 arrives at the perfect transformational moment in our league’s history – marking both a defining milestone and the beginning of a new era for the WNBA,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert in a press release. β€œThe unprecedented growth and momentum we’re experiencing today is the result of three decades of commitment – from players, teams, fans, partners, and investors. As we step into this next dynamic era together, Season 30 is tracking to be our most memorable yet – celebrating both how far we’ve come while highlighting the limitless opportunities ahead as we continue to elevate women’s basketball to new heights.”

The WNBA announced that the 30th anniversary season will feature several activations throughout the season. Introducing a special merchandise program, three films will showcase the greatness, rising stars, and championship moments throughout the years.Β  What better way to pay homage to the past players and teams who built the game? The anniversary campaign will also honor the fans who never wavered, while welcoming new supporters.

Let's take a look at how the league is embracing its three-decade birthday.

Season 30 Campaign

This year's season will be celebrated through an integrated brand campaign that blends the past, present, and future.Β  The tagline headlines β€œThere’s More Where Thirty Came From," amplifying the fact that the last three decades are a reflection of growth, progress, and cultural influence. In addition, the WNBA will release three films honoring the 30th season: Raising GOATs, Signatures, and Confetti.

β€œAs we tip off our historic 30thΒ season, we’re bringing fans closer to the WNBA than ever before through bold, creative, and immersive storytelling,” said WNBA Chief Marketing Officer Phil Cook in a press release.Β β€œWe’re building a season-long platform of activations, collaborations, and fan-first experiences designed to engage the WNBA family wherever they are. Season 30 will be our most ambitious and innovative marketing campaign ever – one that matches the current momentum of the WNBA.”

Raising GOATS is narrated by Sheryl Swoopes. Highlighting top moments from the past, the video reflects on the WNBA's journey and that legacies can be defined in the future. The WNBA has accomplished over time, but there's more work to be done.

WNBA Court Origins

The 2026 WNBA season will include the first-ever retro program, headlined by "WNBA Court Origin Nights." The league will pay homage to its original teams by designating Nike Court Origin uniforms and warm-ups. Included will be a Wilson Court Origin game ball edition featuring the 1997 branding. Everyone loves a good throwback; this is a tribute to the past.

This program will showcase three prominent original teams on national television: The New York Liberty, Los Angeles Sparks, and Phoenix Mercury. Staples of the inaugural 1997 season, the franchises have remained cornerstones of the WNBA's history.

With all three immortalized in the history books, the teams have combined to win seven championships. Donned by the purple and gold, Lisa Leslie and Candace Parker defined two generations in Los Angeles. Since its founding in 1997, the Sparks have won three championships: 2001, 2002, and 2016.

Cornerstone Franchises: Sparks, Liberty, Mercury

The Liberty finally secured their first WNBA Championship in 2024 after defeating the Minnesota Lynx in a decisive Game 5. Not only did the trophy finally signal winning basketball in the Big Apple, but it also awarded the Liberty faithful. From a failed run at Madison Square Garden to minimal space in Westchester, Liberty fans stood firm. To this day, the culture speaks for itself with constant sellout crowds at the Barclays Center.

Although New York has just one championship since 1997, the Ring of Honor awards the legends who donned the seafoam green. Although rebranded over time, the Liberty was once home to Becky Hammon, Teresa Weatherspoon, Rebecca Lobo, Crystal Robinson, Sue Wicks, Tari Phillips, Kym Hampton, and Vickie Johnson. Perhaps the greatest moment in Liberty franchise history includes Weatherspoon's famous half-court shot in Game 2 of the 1999 finals (aka "The Shot").

Then there's Sabrina Ionescu's deep logo dagger in Game 3 of the 2025 Finals. A franchise defined by culture and fan support, fans stayed ready after three finals appearances from 1997 to 2000. 24 years later, the "Liberty Biberty" delivered.

Considered one of the premier founding organizations in the WNBA, the Mercury is tied with the Detroit Shock, Las Vegas Aces, and Los Angeles Sparks for the second-most championship wins in history. Winning three titles in 2007, 2009, and 2014, this franchise was defined by Diana Taurasi. Drafted first overall in 2004 by Phoenix, Taurasi went on to play all 20 seasons with the same franchise that housed DeWanna Bonner, Penny Taylor, Brittney Griner, Cappie Pondexter, and more.

WNBA Legacy Trail

If you're a big merch fan, this section is for you. This season, the WNBA Legacy Trail is a "fan-centric" merchandise program that showcases the WNBA's legacy while recognizing those who have shaped the league, including fans, staff, and moments.

Product drops will roll out in April, featuring LA Crema (Apr. 9), Nike (Apr. 12), and Mitchell & Ness (Apr. 15). As if the announcement couldn't get any more exciting, new merch collaborations will be released on the 30th of each month.

WNBA Top 30 Plays

The WNBA continues to come up with fun ways to celebrate the 30th season, and this is a great way to do so. The top 30 plays are exactly what they sound like.

Long-form content will include conversations and a full countdown of plays. In addition, it will honor the most memorable plays in history through three decades. Featured will be former WNBA players, coaches, and influential voices who will evaluate each play.

The 2026 WNBA season tips off on Friday, May 8. The Toronto Tempo will make their debut against the Washington Mystics, and the Golden State Valkyries will take on the Seattle Storm in a West Coast showdown. Stay tuned for more updates from the 2026 WNBA season.

Sara Jane Gamelli is the Managing Editor and Senior Staff Writer at Ballislife.com, as well as Director of Ballislife Bets. Follow her on X at @SaraJGamelli.

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