The moment a WNBA team clinches the title is one of sheer elation—players celebrate on the court, confetti fills the air, and the championship trophy is hoisted high. Yet, for many athletes, another highly anticipated milestone still awaits: the presentation of their WNBA championship rings. These rings are more than accessories; they are emblems of excellence, perseverance, and the culmination of a grueling season’s effort.
But when exactly do WNBA teams receive these prestigious rings? Unlike other major leagues, the tradition and timing surrounding WNBA ring ceremonies have unique nuances that are deeply rooted in the league’s culture and calendar.
The Significance of Championship Rings in the WNBA
While the championship trophy is awarded immediately after the final buzzer, the WNBA championship ring arrives later and holds a distinct place in the players’ hearts. These rings symbolize more than just a win; they represent months of physical effort, mental resilience, and team unity. Every gem and inscription is a reminder of a journey shared.
WNBA championship rings are awarded to players, coaches, and often other key staff who contributed to the team’s victory. They are tokens of legacy, becoming treasured keepsakes that many athletes retain for life and proudly show off during reunions, media appearances, and public events.
The Timing: When Do Teams Actually Get Their Rings?
Unlike in the NBA or NFL, where ring ceremonies are typically held early in the following season, the WNBA presents its championship rings on opening night of the next regular season. This tradition serves as both a celebration of the past and a rallying cry for the future.
Opening Night Ring Ceremonies
The most common and consistent practice in the WNBA is to present the championship rings during the team’s first home game of the subsequent season. This approach ensures the maximum number of fans can witness the celebration, and it allows players to reunite with their home crowd under joyous circumstances.
For instance, after the Las Vegas Aces won the championship in 2022, they received their rings on opening night of the 2023 season in front of a packed home arena. The same pattern has held true for previous champions such as the Seattle Storm, Los Angeles Sparks, and Minnesota Lynx.
This delayed timeline builds anticipation and allows organizers ample time to prepare a meaningful presentation, produce high-quality rings, and coordinate logistics with the league office.
Who Participates in the Ceremony?
Ring ceremonies are often intimate yet high-energy events. They typically involve:
- Players and Coaches: The current roster and coaching staff take center stage.
- Former Teammates: Players who have since transferred or retired may return to receive their rings.
- Franchise Executives: Team owners and executives often participate, thanking players and addressing the crowd.
- League Officials: Representatives from the WNBA front office often attend to formally present the rings.
- Fans and Media: The event is broadcast and heavily documented, ensuring the moment is captured for history.
Each participant typically walks across the court or stage to receive their ring from a team executive or a WNBA official, with thunderous applause accompanying each presentation.
The Ceremony Agenda: What Happens?
The ring ceremony generally occurs before the opening tip-off of the first home game of the new season. Here’s what the typical timeline looks like:
- Player Introductions – The championship roster is introduced one by one, sometimes accompanied by video highlights of the previous season.
- Ring Presentation – Each player receives their ring and often holds it up to the crowd.
- Speech or Acknowledgment – The head coach or a team leader may deliver brief remarks.
- Banner Unveiling – If applicable, the championship banner is unveiled in the arena rafters.
- Tributes – Fans may be treated to highlight reels, interviews, and tributes on the jumbotron.
- Game Time – The celebration transitions into gameplay as the new season begins.
It’s not only a celebration—it’s a strategic morale boost, sending a message to the rest of the league: the champions are back and ready to defend their title.
WNBA vs. Other Leagues: A Unique Approach
While the WNBA draws some ceremonial inspiration from other leagues, there are distinct differences in how championship rings are awarded.
- NBA: Similar to the WNBA, the NBA also hosts ring ceremonies during opening night at the home arena. However, these are often more elaborate due to greater media coverage and budgets.
- NFL: Rings are typically handed out during a closed, private event in the offseason.
- NHL and MLB: These leagues often distribute rings during the early portion of the new season, sometimes in smaller ceremonies.
The WNBA’s approach is streamlined, heartfelt, and focused on community, often emphasizing the player-fan connection and the team’s local support base.
What Happens If a Player Is No Longer with the Team?
One common question is: What happens to players who contributed to a championship but are no longer on the roster? Thankfully, WNBA teams honor all eligible players regardless of their current team status.
Former players may:
- Return for the Ceremony – Teams frequently invite former players to attend opening night and receive their rings in person.
- Receive Rings Privately – If travel or scheduling conflicts arise, rings may be mailed or delivered through a smaller, personal event.
The goal is to ensure every deserving individual receives recognition, no matter where their career takes them after the championship run.
A Look Back: Memorable Ring Ceremonies
Over the years, several WNBA teams have hosted unforgettable ring ceremonies:
- 2019 Washington Mystics: The Mystics held an emotional ring ceremony in front of their home fans, complete with a banner drop and tributes to injured teammates who helped during the season.
- 2017 Minnesota Lynx: This dynasty team added yet another ring to its collection, sparking cheers from loyal fans and showcasing the franchise’s sustained excellence.
- 2023 Las Vegas Aces: Their ring ceremony featured dynamic music, dazzling LED floor graphics, and a heartfelt speech by star A’ja Wilson.
These moments transcend sport—they become community-wide celebrations and enduring symbols of excellence.
The Design: Not Just Jewelry, but Legacy
While this article does not delve into the specifics of ring customization, it’s important to acknowledge that the design of WNBA rings is often intricate and thoughtful. Rings may feature:
- Team Logos and Colors
- Player Names and Jersey Numbers
- Championship Year
- Final Score of the Deciding Game
- Symbolic Motifs – such as stars for championships won or city icons
Each element is chosen to reflect the team’s journey and identity. Players often describe the moment they first open their ring boxes as “surreal”—a tangible reward for fulfilling an intangible dream.
Beyond the Ring: Legacy, Culture, and Meaning
For WNBA players, the ring represents more than a title. It is a legacy builder. Given the league’s rich history of advocacy, community engagement, and female empowerment, the championship ring often becomes a cultural artifact, signifying both athletic achievement and leadership.
Many former players go on to display their rings in museums, schools, or charity auctions. Others wear them with pride during media appearances or coaching stints. The ring travels with them, telling the story of a championship season wherever they go.
Why Fans Should Care
The WNBA championship ring ceremony is not just for the team—it’s also for the fans. These events are carefully orchestrated to recognize the role of supporters in a team’s success. It’s a shared victory, and the presentation of rings serves as a communal moment of pride and reflection.
Whether you’ve been a fan from day one or just joined the WNBA community, witnessing a ring ceremony is a moment to treasure. It encapsulates the emotional highs of competition, the reward of teamwork, and the power of sports to bring people together.
Celebrate Greatness with Discount Sports Rings
Championship rings are powerful symbols of excellence, grit, and triumph—and in the WNBA, they carry a legacy of progress and passion. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or dedicated fan, honoring achievements with a stunning ring is a tradition worth embracing.
At Discount Sports Rings, we understand the pride that comes with championship moments. While you may not be in the WNBA, your milestones deserve to be celebrated in style.
Find your perfect championship rings. Explore our collection of sports rings and choose from a variety of designs. Shop now!
