The WNBA has announced that the All-Star Game will make a return to Chicago in 2026, set to be held at the United Center. The game is scheduled for July 25, with additional events like the 3-point contest and Skills Challenge planned for the day before. However, the realization of these plans hinges on the league reaching a new collective bargaining agreement before the current one expires at the end of the month, as negotiations are currently at a standstill.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed excitement about bringing the AT&T WNBA All-Star event back to Chicago, highlighting the anticipated competitive spirit and community engagement it will bring. The league, in collaboration with the Chicago Sky, aims to showcase top WNBA talents, engage fans globally, and capture the vibrancy of Chicago as a basketball hub.
Notably, Chicago previously hosted the All-Star Game in 2022 at the Wintrust Arena, the home venue of the Chicago Sky. The decision to move the 2026 event to the United Center, where the Sky also played some games last season, is strategic due to the larger capacity of the arena compared to Wintrust Arena, accommodating nearly double the number of spectators.
Chicago Sky’s CEO and President, Adam Fox, expressed enthusiasm about hosting the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, emphasizing the opportunity to elevate the league’s growth trajectory and showcase its top talents on a global platform. The most recent All-Star Game took place in Indianapolis, where Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark missed out due to a groin injury.