WNBL considers schedule changes due to WNBA overlap

The Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) is considering delaying the start of its next season due to scheduling conflicts with the WNBA. Several high-profile players, including reigning league MVP Isobel Borlase, Miela Sowah, and Madina Okot, are expected to miss the opening weeks of the Australian competition as they compete in the WNBA finals.

The scheduling overlap stems from a 17-day pause in the American league for the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup, which caused the WNBA season to end later than usual. Concerns are mounting for future seasons, as a planned WNBA expansion in 2027 will extend its regular season into November, potentially causing marquee Australian and international players to miss the start of the WNBL campaign.

WNBL Chief Operating Officer Justin Nelson confirmed that the league is evaluating the possibility of a later start date to accommodate international players, though no final decision has been made.