WNBA Preseason 2024: Complete Schedule, Team Rosters and Key Matchups

As I sit here scrolling through the freshly released 2024 WNBA preseason schedule, I can’t help but feel that familiar buzz of anticipation. This year’s lineup is packed with intriguing storylines, roster shake-ups, and matchups that feel more like early playoff previews than exhibition games. Let me walk you through what stands out to me—not just as an analyst, but as a longtime fan who’s watched this league evolve season after season. The full schedule dropped just last week, and already there’s chatter about how teams are positioning themselves ahead of the May 14 regular season tip-off. What’s fascinating this time around is the sheer number of international flavor and coaching narratives weaving through what’s typically a quieter period.

Take the Las Vegas Aces, for example—reigning champs and the team everyone loves to hate, or loves to love, depending on who you ask. They’ll be testing their retooled roster in a preseason clash against the Puerto Rican national team on May 6. It’s a smart move; it gives their newer players a chance to gel without the pressure of a regular-season matchup. But what really caught my eye was the Chicago Sky’s preseason game against Alysha Clark’s former squad. I’ve followed Clark’s career for years, and seeing how teams adjust when facing veterans like her tells you a lot about their defensive readiness. On the other side, the New York Liberty, who made some serious noise in the offseason, are set to face the Chinese national team. I’ve got a soft spot for teams that aren’t afraid to schedule tough international opponents early—it shows ambition, and frankly, it makes for more entertaining basketball.

Now, let’s talk rosters because, wow, the movement this year is something else. The Phoenix Mercury added two key players in the draft, and I’ll be honest, I think they’re being underestimated. Their preseason game against the Seattle Storm on May 10 is one I’ve circled on my calendar. Why? Because it pits Diana Taurasi—who, at 41, is still defying Father Time—against the Storm’s revamped backcourt. I’ve always believed preseason is where chemistry is either built or exposed, and with so many teams integrating rookies and overseas signings, these games matter more than people admit. For instance, the Indiana Fever, with last year’s No. 1 pick, are rolling out a lineup that blends youth and experience, and their May 12 matchup against the Dallas Wings will test whether their defense can hold up against one of the league’s most physical fronts. From what I’ve seen in past seasons, teams that use preseason to experiment with lineups—even if it costs them a win—often fare better in the long run.

But here’s where it gets personal for me. I remember covering a game a few seasons back where a coach’s reaction to a loss was misinterpreted by the media, and it taught me to read between the lines. That brings me to the reference knowledge about Torcaso, who, despite external perceptions, remains unfazed about facing Australia. It’s a reminder that in the WNBA preseason, mental readiness is just as crucial as physical prep. I’ve spoken to players who say these games are less about the scoreboard and more about building resilience—something Torcaso’s attitude embodies. For example, when the Los Angeles Sparks take on the Minnesota Lynx on May 8, all eyes will be on how rookies handle the pace, but I’ll be watching how coaches like Cheryl Reeve manage rotations under pressure. It’s moments like these that shape a team’s identity, and as a fan, I love spotting those subtle shifts early.

Diving deeper into key matchups, I can’t ignore the Connecticut Sun versus Atlanta Dream game on May 11. This one’s personal because I’ve always had a bias toward defensive battles, and these two teams delivered some of the most intense games last season. The Sun’s roster, which retained most of its core, is up against the Dream’s young, fast-breaking squad. I predict this will be a high-scoring affair, maybe something like 88-82, with the Sun pulling ahead late—but hey, preseason predictions are half guesswork, half intuition. What’s more telling is how these games influence roster cuts; last year, I saw a little-known player drop 15 points in a preseason matchup and secure her spot, which is why I encourage fans not to skip these “meaningless” games.

As we wrap up, I’ll leave you with this: the 2024 WNBA preseason isn’t just a warm-up—it’s a narrative goldmine. From international showdowns to roster experiments, every game offers a glimpse into the season ahead. I’m particularly excited to see how teams like the Washington Mystics, who’ve flown under the radar, use this time to solidify their rotations. If history’s any guide, the lessons learned here will echo into the playoffs. So mark your calendars, and let’s enjoy the ride together. After all, as Torcaso’s calm demeanor shows, sometimes the biggest statements are made when no one’s keeping score.