WNBA pauses season for FIBA World Cup with playoffs approaching
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 12:00 PM
Last updated Aug 29, 2026
The WNBA will halt its season on August 29 for the FIBA World Cup, resuming play on September 18. The break comes as teams approach the playoffs, with seedings still uncertain. The Valkyries will have four players participating in the tournament, including Gabby Williams and Janelle Salaün. Critics have raised concerns about the league's momentum being affected during this pause, but the WNBA continues to thrive amid external challenges.
- •WNBA season pauses for FIBA World Cup starting August 29.
- •Valkyries clinched playoff berth with a win against the Dallas Wings.
- •Four Valkyries players will participate in the World Cup.
- •League maintains strong audience engagement despite external criticisms.
- •Resumption of WNBA play is scheduled for September 18.
- 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — WNBA might break for World Cup, but media firestorm won't pause its success
"The Valkyries and the WNBA have been one of sports' best success stories. As the league interrupts its season for the FIBA World Cup one last time, it remains unbroken by its critics.
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