Both franchises are looking to capture their first WNBA championship, making the 2026 Finals a historic matchup.
Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 WNBA Finals schedule, including game dates, tipoff times, television coverage, streaming options and the championship format.
2026 WNBA Finals Schedule: Complete Game Dates and Times
The 2026 WNBA Finals are scheduled to begin October 17 and could continue through October 31 if the series reaches a decisive Game 7.
All times listed are Eastern Time (ET).
| Game | Date | Time (ET) | TV Channel / Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | Saturday, October 17 | 3:30 PM | NBC, Peacock |
| Game 2 | Monday, October 19 | 8:00 PM | USA Network, Peacock |
| Game 3 | Thursday, October 22 | 8:00 PM | USA Network, Peacock |
| Game 4 | Saturday, October 24 | 3:30 PM | NBC, Peacock |
| Game 5* | Monday, October 26 | 8:00 PM | USA Network, Peacock |
| Game 6* | Thursday, October 29 | 8:00 PM | USA Network, Peacock |
| Game 7* | Saturday, October 31 | 8:00 PM | USA Network, Peacock |
*Games 5, 6 and 7 will only be played if necessary.
Where to Watch the 2026 WNBA Finals on TV and Streaming
Fans across the United States will have multiple options to watch the 2026 WNBA Finals live.
- NBC: Games 1 and 4 will air nationally on NBC.
- USA Network: Games 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 are scheduled to air on USA Network, with the final three games taking place only if necessary.
- Peacock: All seven potential WNBA Finals games will be available to stream on Peacock.
Viewers can also check with their cable, satellite or live TV streaming provider for access to NBC and USA Network.
Who Is Playing in the 2026 WNBA Finals?
The Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream will compete for the 2026 WNBA championship.
The matchup carries historical significance for both organizations.
Golden State Valkyries
The Golden State Valkyries are making their first WNBA Finals appearance in just their second season as a franchise.
Golden State will have home-court advantage in the championship series, hosting the opening two games and potentially Games 5 and 7.
Atlanta Dream
The Atlanta Dream return to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013.
Atlanta will attempt to secure the franchise’s first championship after previous Finals appearances ended without a title.
The Dream will host Games 3 and 4, along with Game 6 if necessary.
Where Will the 2026 WNBA Finals Be Played?
The WNBA Finals will use a 2-2-1-1-1 home-court format.
Golden State Home Games
- Game 1 – October 17
- Game 2 – October 19
- Game 5 – October 26, if necessary
- Game 7 – October 31, if necessary
Golden State’s home games will take place at Chase Center in San Francisco, California.
Atlanta Home Games
- Game 3 – October 22
- Game 4 – October 24
- Game 6 – October 29, if necessary
This format gives Golden State the opportunity to host a deciding Game 7.
How Many Games Are in the 2026 WNBA Finals?
The 2026 WNBA Finals follow a best-of-seven format.
The first team to win four games will be crowned WNBA champion.
The series can end in as few as four games if one team sweeps its opponent. If the teams split the first six games, Game 7 will determine the champion.
When Is Game 1 of the 2026 WNBA Finals?
Game 1 of the 2026 WNBA Finals is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, at 3:30 PM ET.
The Golden State Valkyries will host the Atlanta Dream at Chase Center.
Fans can watch the opening game live on NBC or stream it through Peacock.
When Is Game 7 of the 2026 WNBA Finals?
If the championship series goes the distance, Game 7 will take place on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET.
Golden State would host the deciding game, with television coverage scheduled for USA Network and streaming on Peacock.
Game 7 will only be necessary if both teams win three of the first six games.
2026 WNBA Finals Frequently Asked Questions
When do the 2026 WNBA Finals start?
The 2026 WNBA Finals begin Saturday, October 17, with Game 1 scheduled for 3:30 PM Eastern Time.
What channel are the 2026 WNBA Finals on?
The Finals will air on NBC and USA Network, with streaming coverage available on Peacock.
Can I stream the 2026 WNBA Finals?
Yes. Peacock is scheduled to stream every game of the 2026 WNBA Finals.
Who has home-court advantage in the 2026 WNBA Finals?
The Golden State Valkyries have home-court advantage against the Atlanta Dream.
When could the 2026 WNBA Finals end?
The Finals could conclude as early as October 24 with a four-game sweep or extend through October 31 if a seventh game is required.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 WNBA Finals will showcase a historic championship matchup between the Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream.
With both teams chasing their first title, the series promises to deliver a memorable conclusion to the 2026 WNBA season.
Fans can follow the action beginning Saturday, October 17, at 3:30 PM ET, with national television coverage on NBC and USA Network and streaming available through Peacock.
Stay tuned to The Sports Cast for the latest WNBA Finals scores, results, schedules and championship updates.