The glow-up is real, and women’s sports just got another major win. The Maybelline Women’s Lacrosse League (WLL) is leveling up, announcing that starting in Summer 2026, the league will hit the field with its very first full season and playoffs. That means more games, more highlights, and way more opportunities to watch the best women in the sport shine on a national stage.
This expansion isn’t just about more lacrosse—it’s about setting the tone for what the future of women’s professional sports looks like. With 11 weekends of action, fans can catch the intensity on ESPN networks and the ESPN App, making it easier than ever to get your fix of speed, skill, and pure fire from some of the most elite athletes in the world.
Paul Rabil, Co-Founder and President of the Premier Lacrosse League, didn’t hold back on the excitement: “With the launch of our WLL Championship Series, we caught a glimpse of what the women’s professional game can be. Today, we’re excited to expand their professional platform to reflect the talent, ambition, and excellence of the players.”
And ESPN is ready to amplify the moment. Rosalyn Durant, EVP of Programming & Acquisitions, confirmed what fans already know—women’s lacrosse has the juice: “We are thrilled to bring the Women’s Lacrosse League’s first regular season to fans nationwide in 2026. We believe the WLL’s pace, storytelling, and cultural resonance will inspire a broader audience.”
From Breakthrough to Full Force
Let’s not forget—this league is still fresh. The WLL was only just launched in November 2024, and by the time the 2025 Maybelline Championship Series rolled around, it was clear the game had changed. The Boston Guard walked away with the inaugural WLL title, while their final showdown with the New York Charging became the most streamed women’s professional lacrosse game ever on ESPN+. That’s not just history—that’s momentum.
With lacrosse already booming—think record NCAA numbers, more young girls picking up sticks, and the Olympic debut on the horizon for LA28—the WLL is perfectly positioned to become the league for women’s lacrosse.
Four Teams. Bigger Rosters. Bigger Stage.
The original four—Boston Guard, New York Charging, Maryland Charm, and California Palms—aren’t going anywhere, but they are getting a little deeper. Rosters will expand to 23 players, thanks to an expansion draft, plus a College Draft ahead of the 2026 season. That means fans will get to see the next wave of stars step right into the spotlight.
What’s Next
The 2026 Championship Series, regular season matchups, and playoff schedule are dropping later this year. Until then, you can stay in the know at www.thewll.com and follow the league on socials (@WLL on Instagram, @WLacrosseLeague on Twitter, @WomensLacrosseLeague on Facebook and TikTok).
So lace up, because come 2026, the Maybelline WLL isn’t just expanding—it’s defining the game, rewriting the playbook, and putting women’s lacrosse where it belongs: front and center.
Michelle M. Mitchell is the Publisher of OMG Culture Magazine, a global multicultural online news publication. With a passion for storytelling and a keen editorial vision, she leads the magazine’s coverage of culture, society, and luxury lifestyle. As a contributor, Michelle brings her expertise in high-profile events, entertainment, and community features, offering readers a distinctive and engaging perspective.
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