TL;DR
- The WNBA boasts 50 out gay players this season.
- Four out players joined from the college draft.
- The league expands with new teams and talent.
- Gay representation in sports is at an all-time high.
- Follow these players for updates and inspiration.
Hold onto your basketballs, folks, because the WNBA is serving up a slam dunk of fabulousness this season! With a record-breaking 50 out gay players, the league is not just a sports powerhouse, it’s a rainbow-colored beacon of hope and representation. From legends to rising stars, these athletes are proving that being true to yourself is the ultimate game-changer.
Let’s break it down. Remember when the list of out gay players was a mere 15? Fast forward to 2026, and we’re looking at a whopping 50, plus three waived players with experience who might just find their way back onto a roster. And let’s not forget the ten players who we suspect are part of the LGBTQ family but haven’t officially come out. The league is bigger and bolder than ever, especially with the addition of the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire.
Let’s take a look at some of the standout players making waves this season:
Atlanta Dream: Jordin Canada is not just a basketball star; she’s also a musician! Follow her on Instagram for some behind-the-scenes magic.
Chicago Sky: Courtney Vandersloot, the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, is back after an injury and ready to make her mark. Oh, and did we mention she’s married to fellow player Allie Quigley? #CoupleGoals
Connecticut Sun: Brittney Griner, the first out gay college player drafted to the WNBA, is making her homecoming as the Sun moves to Houston. Talk about a full-circle moment!
Dallas Wings: Arike Ogunbowale, a two-time WNBA All-Star MVP, tied the knot with influencer Lala Ronay. Love is definitely in the air in Dallas!
Las Vegas Aces: Chelsea Gray, a certified legend, welcomed a baby with her wife, Tipsea Gray. This duo is redefining family goals in the WNBA.
New York Liberty: Jonquel Jones, the 2024 WNBA Championship MVP, is engaged and hosting basketball camps for young girls. She’s not just a player; she’s a role model!
And the list goes on! From the Minnesota Lynx to the Seattle Storm, every team is showcasing incredible talent and fierce personalities. It’s a beautiful time to be part of the WNBA, where representation matters and being your authentic self is celebrated.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just tuning in, make sure to follow these fabulous athletes this season. They’re not just playing basketball; they’re changing the game for LGBTQ representation in sports. For more on the incredible queer athletes making their mark, check out our previous article on the WNBA Draft and see how love and talent collide on the court!
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