Unveiling the Liberty's 2026 Schedule: A Quest for Redemption
The WNBA's Liberty are gearing up for a season of redemption, aiming to reclaim their former glory after a disappointing 2025.
After a crushing first-round exit from the playoffs last year, the Liberty are ready to make a comeback. They've announced their 2026 schedule, and it's packed with high-stakes games and strategic road trips. Let's dive into the details and explore what this season might hold for the team.
A New Beginning: The Liberty's 30th Season
The Liberty will tip off their 30th season at the Barclays Center on May 8, 2026, against the Connecticut Sun. This marks the beginning of a new era under head coach Chris DeMarco, who brings fresh leadership and a renewed sense of determination to the team.
The Revenge Tour: A Three-Game Road Trip
Following the season opener, the Liberty will embark on a three-game road trip, starting with games in Portland on May 12 and 14. This trip sets the stage for the team's revenge tour, where they aim to prove their mettle against past opponents.
Homestand Highlights: Brooklyn's Best
Upon returning to Brooklyn, the Liberty will enjoy a seven-game homestand, their longest of the season. This stretch of home games provides an opportunity for the team to connect with their fans and build momentum in familiar surroundings.
Schedule Breaks: All-Star Weekend and FIBA World Cup
The 44-game season will have two breaks in the schedule. The first is for the All-Star weekend festivities, scheduled for July 23-25 in Chicago. The WNBA will also pause for 18 days at the beginning of September for the FIBA Women's World Cup.
Must-See Games: The Highlights of the Season
- May 24 vs. Dallas: The highly anticipated debut of Paige Bueckers and the 2026 No. 1 overall pick in Brooklyn. The Wings, who struggled last season, are expected to improve, making this game a must-watch.
- May 27 & 29 vs. Phoenix: The Mercury, who ended the Liberty's back-to-back title hopes last year, will play two consecutive games at Barclays Center. The Liberty will make a trip to Phoenix in August.
- June 3 vs. Toronto: Sandy Brondello, the former Liberty coach, returns to Barclays Center as the head coach of a new WNBA team. The Liberty will make two trips to Toronto.
- June 6 vs. Indiana: Last year's Fever-Liberty games were dramatic, and the teams will meet four times this season. The Liberty went 3-1 against Indiana last year.
- June 23 at Las Vegas: The Liberty and Aces, who built a rivalry during the 2023 and 2024 postseasons, will face off three times. The defending champions, led by A'ja Wilson, are expected to be a force to be reckoned with.
- June 28 at Golden State: DeMarco and Sabrina Ionescu return to the Bay Area. DeMarco spent 13 years with the Warriors before joining the Liberty.
- July 3, 11, Sept. 18 vs. Minnesota: The Liberty and Lynx will square off in three games, with the last one being the Liberty's first after the World Cup break.
- Sept. 21 and 23 vs. Atlanta: The Liberty will conclude the regular season with back-to-back home games against the Dream.
Additional Scheduling Tidbits: Back-to-Backs and Road Trips
The Liberty are scheduled to play a league-high-tying three back-to-back series against Indiana, Las Vegas, and San Francisco. They will also embark on two four-game road trips, one from June 21-28 and another from July 11-18.
Covering the Liberty: Inside the Action
For in-depth coverage of the Liberty, sign up for Madeline Kenney's 'Inside the Liberty' newsletter. Stay tuned for weekly updates and insights into the team's journey towards redemption.
The Liberty's 2026 schedule is packed with high-stakes games and strategic road trips. Will they reclaim their former glory? Stay tuned, and let the games begin!
