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WNBA Stars Nakase, Smith Join Chinese Basketball Association

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  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 22:36 GMT by East Bay Times
      Locales: California, Connecticut, Texas, UNITED STATES

Minneapolis, MN - February 12th, 2026 - A seismic shift is underway in the world of professional women's basketball, as Minnesota Valkyries stars Natalie Nakase and Jess Smith have officially signed contracts to play in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). Their departure, finalized during the recent WNBA free agency period, isn't an isolated incident; it's a bellwether of a larger trend - a significant and growing gravitation of top WNBA talent towards the lucrative and increasingly competitive CBA.

Nakase, the versatile forward celebrated for her dynamic scoring ability and tenacious defense, will be suiting up for the Guangdong Southern Tigers, while Smith, the cerebral point guard and master floor general, has inked a deal with the Beijing Great Wall. Both players were cornerstones of the Valkyries' championship-winning teams, and their absence will undoubtedly be felt in Minnesota.

The financial details of the contracts remain largely confidential, but sources close to both players confirm that the offers from the CBA were considerably more substantial than anything available within the WNBA structure. This disparity in earning potential is at the heart of the growing exodus. For years, WNBA players have often supplemented their incomes by playing overseas during the off-season. However, the CBA is now offering contracts that not only match but exceed top WNBA salaries, presenting a compelling proposition for players seeking financial security and long-term stability.

The Valkyries now face a considerable challenge as they prepare for the 2026 WNBA season. The loss of Nakase and Smith creates significant gaps in both their frontcourt and backcourt, demanding a swift and strategic response from the team's general manager, Brenda Henderson. Henderson is expected to actively pursue free agents and explore trade opportunities to fill the voids left by the departing stars. The team's coaching staff will also need to adapt their offensive and defensive schemes to account for the altered roster dynamics.

However, the situation extends far beyond just the Valkyries. Across the league, WNBA teams are bracing for what could be a wave of players testing the CBA waters. Several other prominent players are reportedly in negotiations with CBA clubs, and experts predict that this trend will accelerate in the coming years. This poses a long-term sustainability question for the WNBA. Can the league compete financially with the rapidly expanding CBA, and will it be able to retain its top talent?

"The CBA is making a serious investment in women's basketball," explains basketball analyst Dr. Anya Sharma. "They've realized the market potential and are willing to pay top dollar to attract established players. They're also offering attractive benefits, including comprehensive healthcare and housing allowances, and a chance to experience a different culture, which is increasingly important to athletes."

The CBA's growing interest in women's basketball isn't solely about finances, though. The Chinese government is actively promoting basketball at all levels as part of its national fitness campaign, and the presence of established WNBA stars is seen as a way to raise the profile of the game and inspire a new generation of Chinese players. The league is also investing in improving its infrastructure and coaching staff, creating a more professional and competitive environment.

The Valkyries, while disappointed to see Nakase and Smith depart, have expressed their support for the players' decisions. Team owner, Robert Peterson, issued a statement saying, "We are sad to see Natalie and Jess go, but we understand their desire to pursue this opportunity. We wish them all the best in China and will always cherish their contributions to the Valkyries." The team remains optimistic about its chances in the upcoming season and is committed to building a competitive roster.

The future of the WNBA hinges on its ability to adapt to this changing landscape. Discussions are underway regarding potential revenue sharing models, increased marketing efforts, and exploring opportunities for international partnerships. The league's survival as the premier destination for women's basketball talent depends on its willingness to innovate and address the financial disparities that are driving players overseas. The departures of Nakase and Smith are a stark reminder that the game is evolving, and the WNBA must evolve with it to remain competitive.