Three WNBA players were let go this week, but that doesn’t signify the conclusion.

WNBA Roster Expansion and Player Cuts

The WNBA now features over 200 roster spots, the highest number ever.

This increase mainly stems from league expansion. With the new additions of the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, the league boasts a record 15 teams this season. As outlined in the latest collective bargaining agreement, each team now has 12 standard roster spots plus two designated for developmental players.

However, the rise in international talent and a wave of outstanding college players make it tough for those on the margins to keep their spots. Even just two weeks into the season, decent players are being released daily.

Since Monday, three players have been waived: Grace VanSleuten from the Seattle Storm, Ashten Prechtel of the Golden State Valkyries, and Aubrey Griffin from the New York Liberty. VanSleuten was a third-round pick in 2026 after an impressive run at Notre Dame. Prechtel, a 2023 third-round pick, clinched an NCAA championship with Stanford. Griffin was also a third-round pick in 2025 from UW.

Prior to these cuts, the Phoenix Mercury let go of Aneli Maley and Peyton Williams, while the Connecticut Sun waived Shea Peddie, and the Portland Fire released Jordan Harrison.

In some cases, these decisions might be anticipated. Players signed to short-term contracts amid injuries likely knew their time was limited. Yet, some cuts can still raise eyebrows, like Kate Martin’s release from the Valkyries after previously being part of the rotation last season.

Getting cut isn’t necessarily the end, though. Many players who have been waived go on to excel with new teams. For instance, Veronica Barton was released by the Dallas Wings two years ago but became a standout point guard for the Valkyries last season. Similarly, veterans like Erica Wheeler and Alisha Clark faced early career cuts but continued to thrive, with Wheeler enjoying 11 seasons and Clark 14 in the league, both now recognized as established veterans.

Those who are released might consider playing overseas or finding opportunities elsewhere; for example, Haley Van Lith recently parted ways with the Chicago Sky and quickly joined the Connecticut Sun.