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WNBL champs set for finals rematch on opening weekend frenzy
The WNBL has officially released its fixture for the 2026-27 season, headlined by the introduction of a new franchise and the arrival of high-profile international talent in the opening round.
The league has also confirmed a major structural shift, moving to a five-team finals format that introduces a sudden-death elimination final.
The WNBL champs are set to face their final rivals on opening weekend. Sarah Reed
Jewels to host Venom in historic opener
The season tips off on October 15, as the league’s newest expansion franchise, the Tasmania Jewels, make their official debut. Led by Australian Opals guard Steph Reid, the Jewels will host the Geelong Venom at MyState Bank Arena, Hobart.
The opening clash also marks the return of two-time WNBL champion Bec Cole, who will suit up in Geelong colours for the first time.
“This season is already being fuelled with a tremendous amount of excitement and anticipation. We have the Jewels joining, some big names returning and some fresh faces that will take things up another level on and off the court,” said WNBL COO Justin Nelson.
“This schedule has been built for the fans. In a move to include more fans and games during the finals, the playoffs this season will feature five teams and an elimination final.”
Immediate rematch for grand final rivals
On October 17, the Perth Lynx be set for a bitter rematch of the 2025-25 grand final against the reigning champion Townsville Fire.
Perth enters the season with significant WNBA experience; veteran guard Sami Whitcomb returns from the Phoenix Mercury to pair with forward Anneli Maley, who spent the winter as a development player with the New York Liberty. The Townsville Fire will run back a roster featuring Alicia Froling, Alex Fowler, Miela Sowah, Abbey Ellis and Chloe Forster, all led by reigning grand final MVP Courtney Woods.
Star power set to return
The opening round will allow fans to see a heavy influx of elite talent returning from overseas.
On October 16, Chinese national team star Rainy Wang will make her highly anticipated debut for the Southside Melbourne Flyers when they host the Sydney Flames.
Attention will then shift as the UC Capitals will host the Tasmania Jewels at the AIS Arena on October 17, showcasing the powerhouse sister duo of Nyadiew and Manuela Puoch.
Nyadiew returns from a breakout WNBA season with the expansion team Portland Fire, while Manuela lines up before heading over to join the New York Liberty.
Bec Cole of the Geelong Venom and Darcee Garbin of the Tasmania Jewels. Paul Kane
When the Bendigo Spirit met the Capitals, this marks the WNBL return of Seattle Storm guard and Opal Jade Melbourne. She’ll be debuting for Bendigo against her former club.
Rounding out the opening week, the Adelaide Lightning will open their campaign on October 20 against Townsville. The Lightning will be boosted by the return of Opal Steph Talbot, following her latest WNBA season with the Las Vegas Aces.
The WNBL 2026/27 season will have all 109 games streamed live and free on 9Now.
