WNBA Expansion Plans

The WNBA is set to grow to 18 teams over the next five years, with Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia expected to join by 2030.

Timeline for New Teams

Cleveland will commence play in 2028, followed by Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030, pending approval from both the NBA and WNBA Board of Governors. Additionally, Toronto and Portland will join the league next year.

League Growth and Demand

WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed enthusiasm for the expansion, stating, “The demand for women’s basketball has never been higher… This historic expansion reflects our league’s remarkable momentum and the increasing investment in women’s professional basketball.”

Ownership and Investment

The three new teams announced are all backed by NBA ownership groups, each paying a $250 million expansion fee—approximately five times the amount Golden State paid for a team years prior. They also plan to invest further by developing practice facilities and other amenities.

Historical Context

Both Cleveland and Detroit previously hosted WNBA teams, while Philadelphia had an ABL team. Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores highlighted the significance of this development, calling it a major milestone for the city and emphasizing its rich basketball heritage.

Future Rivalries

With the addition of these teams, the league expects to cultivate new rivalries, particularly among cities that already have a historical competitive sports relationship, like Cleveland and Detroit. Detroit Pistons’ vice president Arn Tellem noted the potential for strong rivalries similar to those in the NBA.

Increasing Market Demand

The selection process saw significant interest from other cities, including St. Louis and Austin, but ultimately Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia emerged as the chosen teams. Engelbert remarked on the high demand, emphasizing the importance of evaluating team numbers and roster spots as they move forward with an evolving media deal and corporate partnerships.