The WNBA's opening weekend showcased standout performances and players who should be added to fantasy teams. Key breakout players can significantly impact fantasy managers' chances for success in the 2026 season.
Key points
WNBA's opening weekend featured standout performances
Players to add for fantasy teams include Chennedy Carter
Strong starts are crucial for fantasy managers
Breakout players can significantly impact fantasy success
Las Vegas AcesDallas WingsChennedy CarterAzzi Fudd
Getting off to a solid start is an important goal for fantasy managers, and if done right, can be the key to securing a highly coveted championship. This is where paying attention to breakout players and waiver wire risers becomes critical.
If you're here, you're likely looking for players to add to your team who can provide critical production and depth in case of injuries. USA TODAY has you covered on the must-add players who can help your 2026 fantasy season, including Chennedy Carter of the Las Vegas Aces.
2026: Azzi Fudd, Dallas Wings (Connecticut)
2025: Paige Bueckers, Dallas Wings (Connecticut)
2024: Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever (Iowa)
Q&A
Which players should I add to my WNBA fantasy team after Week 1?
Key players to consider adding include Chennedy Carter from the Las Vegas Aces and Azzi Fudd from the Dallas Wings.
Why is the opening weekend important for WNBA fantasy managers?
A strong start can be crucial for fantasy managers as it sets the tone for the rest of the season and can lead to championship success.
What were the standout performances in the WNBA's opening weekend?
The opening weekend featured several down-to-the-wire matchups and impressive individual performances that caught the attention of fantasy managers.
How can breakout players impact my WNBA fantasy team?
Adding breakout players can provide critical production and depth, especially in case of injuries, enhancing your chances of winning your fantasy league.
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Carter didn't play in the WNBA during the 2025 season, but she hasn't missed a beat. She still has one of the fastest first steps, which she used to her advantage during her debut with the Aces. Carter utilized her speed to manipulate defenders, create space and score from all three levels. Across two games during opening weekend, she averaged 16 points on 66.7% from the field plus two steals. On May 10, against the Los Angeles Sparks, Carter scored 22 points off the bench on 69% shooting in 20 minutes.
With Monique Akoa Makani still overseas, Nogić has taken over the Mercury's starting point guard duties and risen to the occasion. The Serbian 3-point specialist, who made her WNBA debut against the Las Vegas Aces on May 9, scored a blistering 19 points on 62.5% shooting against Las Vegas with four assists and two steals in 21 minutes. Nogić followed up on that performance with 16 points on 83% shooting against the Golden State Valkyries.
After 12 seasons in the league, Sims is still one of the toughest and grittiest veteran guards. On May 9, she unleashed a vintage performance against the Indiana Fever, her former team. The Dallas guard delivered a 20-point, lights-out performance, shooting 72.7% from the field while adding two rebounds, two steals and two assists. Her best basket of the day was a pull-up jumpshot with 36 seconds remaining in regulation, helping Dallas to later secure the win.
Leite didn't have her best day against the Chicago Sky on May 9. She shot 27.3%, but she did much of her damage against Chicago at the free-throw line. Leite was 11-of-12 en route to an 18-point outing. She also had three rebounds and three assists during her 29 minutes on the floor, showing promise of what could be during her tenure in Portland.
Jade Melbourne, G, Seattle Storm
Average fantasy points: 24.5 | % Rostered: 6.5
With a new era underway in Seattle, Melbourne is in line to potentially play some big minutes in 2026. If she stays on the floor ― and doesn't chip any more of her teeth ― the Seattle guard can follow up on her solid outings during opening weekend. Melbourne averaged 14 points during games against Golden State and Connecticut, including 15 points, six assists, one steal and one block against the Sun.
