Top 10 WNBA MVP Candidates for 2026: Can Anyone Dethrone A’ja Wilson?

The WNBA MVP award has been in the hands of A’ja Wilson for the past seven years, with the Las Vegas Aces superstar claiming four MVP trophies since 2020. Her dominance is evident, but the 2026 season could mark a turning point. FanDuel’s latest odds provide an early look at the top candidates poised to challenge Wilson’s reign.

2026 WNBA MVP Odds: Top 10 Candidates Ranked

1. A’ja Wilson, C, Las Vegas Aces (+200)

A’ja Wilson is not only the defending co-Defensive Player of the Year but also posted impressive shooting stats last season: 50% from the field, 40% from three, and 80% from the foul line. As the reigning MVP favorite, she remains the standard to beat in 2026.

2. Caitlin Clark, G, Indiana Fever (+250)

After battling injuries in her second season, Caitlin Clark is finally healthy and ready to lead a reloaded Indiana Fever squad. In her one fully healthy season, she earned first-team All-WNBA honors and Rookie of the Year. With the Fever projected as a top team, Clark is a serious MVP contender.

3. Napheesa Collier, F, Minnesota Lynx (+1000)

Napheesa Collier will miss at least the first month of the 2026 season after ankle surgery, but her offensive production last year was undeniable. She set career highs in points, blocks, and field goal percentage, making her a formidable MVP candidate when she returns.

4. Breanna Stewart, F, New York Liberty (+1000)

Breanna Stewart is coming off championship seasons in both the WNBA (Unrivaled) and EuroLeague, proving she’s at the top of her game. After winning MVP in 2023, she’s poised to repeat her dominance in 2026.

5. Sabrina Ionescu, G, New York Liberty (+1500)

Sabrina Ionescu will take on a larger role under first-year Liberty coach Chris DeMarco. Known for her elite shooting and playmaking, she could lead the league’s most potent roster to a deep playoff run and MVP contention.

6. Paige Bueckers, G, Dallas Wings (+2000)

Paige Bueckers won Rookie of the Year in 2025 while earning second-team All-WNBA honors. Her versatility as a scorer, playmaker, and defender makes her a rising star in the MVP conversation.

7. Alyssa Thomas, F, Phoenix Mercury (+2000)

Alyssa Thomas finished third in MVP voting last season, averaging nearly a triple-double with 15.4 points, 9.2 assists, and 8.8 rebounds per game. With her all-around dominance, she’s a consistent threat for the MVP award.

8. Jonquel Jones, F, New York Liberty (+2500)

Jonquel Jones won MVP in 2021 with the Connecticut Sun and remains a dominant force. Now playing for the Liberty alongside Stewart and Ionescu, she could add another MVP trophy to her resume in 2026.

9. Chelsea Gray, G, Dallas Wings (+3000)

Chelsea Gray is a proven playmaker and clutch performer, with championship experience in both the WNBA and overseas. Her leadership and scoring ability make her a dark-horse MVP candidate.

10. Brittney Griner, C, Phoenix Mercury (+3000)

Brittney Griner remains one of the most dominant two-way players in the league. After returning from her overseas stint, she’s ready to reclaim her spot among the WNBA’s elite and vie for MVP honors once again.

Why 2026 Could Be the Year for a New MVP

The WNBA’s popularity is at an all-time high, fueled by a new collective bargaining agreement and the emergence of young stars like Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers. With A’ja Wilson turning 30 in 2026, this season could finally see her dethroned as the league’s top player.

"The WNBA MVP award has been in A’ja Wilson’s hands for years, but the 2026 season features a deep and talented field ready to challenge her reign."