The WNBA All-Star Game is set to make a return to Chicago in 2026, to be held at the United Center, the league announced on Thursday. The game is scheduled for July 25, with the 3-point contest and Skills Challenge set to take place a day earlier. However, the plans are subject to the league finalizing a new collective bargaining agreement as the current one is due to expire at the end of the month, with significant differences between the two negotiating parties.
In a statement, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed excitement about bringing the AT&T WNBA All-Star event back to Chicago, emphasizing the anticipated high-level competition and community engagement that will unfold. Collaborating with the Chicago Sky, Engelbert looks forward to honoring the brightest stars of the game, engaging WNBA fans globally, and capturing the vibrant spirit of one of basketball’s most renowned cities.
The last time Chicago hosted the All-Star Game was in 2022 at the Wintrust Arena, the home venue of the Chicago Sky. While the team has previously played some regular-season matches at the United Center, their move to the larger venue signifies a significant capacity increase, with the United Center accommodating nearly double the number of spectators compared to the Wintrust Arena’s capacity of just over 10,000.
Adam Fox, CEO and President of the Chicago Sky, expressed the team’s enthusiasm in welcoming back the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game to Chicago. Building upon the success of the previous event, Fox looks forward to highlighting the league’s remarkable growth by showcasing its premier talent on a global platform.
Notably, the All-Star Game was held in Indianapolis in the previous season, but Indiana Fever standout Caitlin Clark was sidelined due to a groin injury, missing out on the opportunity to participate.
