The market value of franchises in the WNBA has skyrocketed ahead of the 2026 season, reaching a combined valuation of US$5.55 billion — an average of US$427 million per team.
The sharp rise, close to 60% year-over-year, is being driven primarily by the league’s new media rights agreement negotiated alongside the NBA. By being included in the NBA’s multi-billion-dollar broadcasting package, the WNBA gains more predictable long-term revenues and stronger global distribution, significantly reducing investor risk perception and increasing franchise appeal.
Expansion franchise Golden State Valkyries currently leads the valuation rankings at US$850 million. The team’s integration into an already established sports and entertainment ecosystem — including arena operations, sponsorship infrastructure, and media assets — has accelerated its commercial potential from day one.
League-wide revenues reportedly reached US$410 million in 2025, marking a 56% increase from the previous year. However, notable financial disparities still exist between franchises, highlighting that the league’s growth phase remains uneven and is still consolidating.
Another key factor behind the valuation surge is the league’s new collective bargaining agreement, which raised the salary cap to US$7 million and improved player salaries overall. The enhanced financial conditions are expected to elevate the quality of competition on the court while strengthening the WNBA’s long-term commercial product.
The latest figures underline a broader trend in women’s sports: investors are increasingly pricing franchises based not only on current revenues, but on future growth potential, media reach, and global audience expansion.