The new WNBA season starts today: Here’s how to watch the games live, including free options

There were moments leading up to the 30th WNBA season where it appeared as if it wasn’t going to happen.

Thankfully, after a lengthy 17-month negotiation where both the players and owners were heard, that is not the case.

The new season of women’s basketball kicks off tonight (Friday, May 8) with three exciting games. Here’s everything you need to know to tune in.

Who is favored to win it all?

Hot off their 2025 championship, the Las Vegas Aces want to continue their streak. The team has won three of the last four, including consecutive wins in 2022 and 2023.

The women have more than momentum on their side. Most of their players are returning this year, including MVP A’ja Wilson. They also added guard Chennedy Carter, forward Stephanie Talbot, and forward/center Brianna Turner.

The New York Liberty will do everything to stop the Aces. Newly appointed head coach Chris DeMarco is determined to win it all. Adding Satou Sabally will certainly help the team go all the way.

The 2024 champs had a rough season of injuries in 2025. Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones and are now all healthy and ready to go. Sabrina Ionescu recently suffered an ankle injury and will be out for at least two weeks.

Will Caitlin Clark avoid more injuries?

Speaking of injuries, superstar Cailtin Clark only played 13 games last season because of her left ankle bone bruise and a right groin strain. The Indiana Fever is certainly hoping she sees more court time this time around.

This is already being tested. During a recent preseason game against the Dallas Wings, Clark collided with Alanna Smith while shooting a three pointer.

The move was determined to be a Flagrant 1 foul and Clark left the game after shooting her free throws. At the post-game press conference, she confirmed she was not injured. Her fans and supporters hope this trend continues. 

What will Angel Reese accomplish with the Atlanta Dream?

No one saw the trading of Angel Reese coming. The Chicago Sky let her go to the Atlanta Dream in return for two first-round draft picks.

Reese will be a great addition to the roster, especially with returning players such as Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, and Brionna Jones present to have her back. Head coach Karl Smesko has big plans.

How to tune in to Friday’s games

There is no easy way to watch all of the WNBA games. The league’s confusing broadcast rights start right away on opening day. You are going to need multiple screens to enjoy Friday’s games.

The first two games both begin at 7:30 p.m. ET. The New York Liberty will host the Connecticut Sun. Catch this on ION.

Simultaneously, the Toronto Tempo will take on the Washington Mystics. The best way to see this match up is on League Pass or through local broadcasters.

At 10:00 p.m. ET, the Golden State Valkyries will face off with the Seattle Storm. This will also be aired on ION.

The rest of the WNBA season is spread out across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2/ESPN+, CBS, NBC, NBCSN, ION, USA Network, NBA TV, Amazon Prime Video, and League Pass.

Additionally, the networks’ respective streaming services will also carry the games.

One strategy to beat the confusion is to get a WNBA League Pass subscription for $39.99 for the year. This will allow you to watch most out-of-market games live and the rest after they finish on demand on your own schedule. It also has classic games to stream.

Other good options are YouTubeTV and DirecTV’s Choice Tier, which will get you most games live.