At the end of the WNBA Season, WNBA fans were looking for some positive news on the CBA deal and subsequently on the 2026 WNBA Season. But three and a half months after that, some ‘contrasting’ decisions shocked many fans and analysts. WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike’s decision to join Project B was the biggest shock. Though fans criticized Ogwumike for her timing and choice, Vice President Breanna Stewart now dropped another bombshell by joining the European League.
Her timing is also questionable as the schedules of EuroCup and the start of the WNBA season overlap, raising questions over possible delay or even cancellation of the season. But Candace Parker views the move differently, shutting down the claims around the impact on the CBA delay or the season’s delay.
Candace Parker Speaks About Breanna Stewart’s Move To Fenerbahce
The New York Liberty star is one of the biggest names on the court and in the players’ association. Her moves and decisions affect players’ decisions and indirectly the CBA discussions. So, when the news of the veteran forward joining Fenerbahce broke, everyone came to the conclusion that the 2026 WNBA season might not start on May 8 as proposed.
Candace Parker brushed aside such a possibility and mentioned that the former UConn star’s decision has nothing to do with the delay or cancellation of the season. “So everyone obviously on social media cause that’s what the internet does, takes something and runs and basically says because Stewie signing there it indicates that either the WNBA season is not starting on time or it is possibly not happening at all. But I think it’s just interesting. Hey, get your bag for six weeks. I’m all for that,” Parker said on her podcast.
Still, she raised questions about the need to go for the European league games when the purpose of Unrivalled was to keep players in the USA only. Highlighting the point, she said, “It’s just weird because I feel like Unrivalled was established not to go overseas. But I wonder what people are saying in terms of, like, the founder of Unrivaled going overseas.”
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While the former Sparks star made a valid point, combining the ongoing CBA discussions, EuroLeague, Unrivaled league, and the former Storm player’s decision, there is only one possibility that could accurately explain Stewie’s decision.
Possible Reason For Breanna Stewart’s Move To EuroLeague
The three-time champion has taken a bold step, understanding the consequences and anticipating reactions from fans and the league. But it is a measured step to attack the WNBA. As per the 202 CBA rules, the league is strict about reporting timings and also about the prioritization rule. While many foreign players and WNBA stars opposed the rule, the league stayed firm on its decision and even punished players for breaking the rule.
What a way to start the week 🙃
— EuroLeague Women (@EuroLeagueWomen) February 16, 2026
2x #EuroLeagueWomen Champion, MVP and 2x Final Four MVP @breannastewart is back in @fbkadinbasket colors! 💛💙 pic.twitter.com/XIdlheUJ1k
In the current situation, with no terms on prioritization and reporting times confirmed, Breanna Stewart made the move to show the league players’ stand on the same. Considering the timing of her decision and the state of CBA decisions, the league would now have to respond quickly, finalizing the terms for prioritization, too.
Though Stewart showed progress in the CBA talks, with this move, she highlighted another point that the league must address in its proposal.