In major developments of the WNBA, Report from Sports Business Journal It shows that the league is preparing to announce its next expansion franchise, and Cleveland has emerged as a possible destination.
It marked the WNBA's return to Cleveland, the city that hosted the original locker between 1997 and 2003.
The team was one of the league's original eight franchises, with the owner of the then Gordon Gund, owning the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers from 1983 to 2005.
Cleveland will follow in the footsteps of the Golden State Valkyries, who will be participating in the league this season, and the Toronto Tempo, who will be participating in 2026.
But that's not just generating buzz in Cleveland.
Philadelphia has also emerged as a clear front runner for future franchises. According to the Philadelphia Inquirerfor Comcast.
Comcast's involvement goes beyond its long-standing partnership with the 76ers. This includes building a new arena in the sports complex to replace Wells Fargo Center and acquiring stakes in the team.
Additionally, Inquirer reported that Comcast recently secured WNBA broadcasting rights as part of an 11-year, $2.5 billion NBA package launched this fall.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledges Philadelphia's strong interest in expanding the league.
Meanwhile, Cleveland's bid is bolstered by a $250 million record-setting offer from current owner of the Cavaliers, Dan Gilbert.
Ball against Phoenix Mercury during the 1998 WNBA
Semi-finals held at Gandalina in August 1998
Cleveland, Ohio. nbae via Getty Images
Houston is still in the running.
The Houston Comets were the original WNBA dynasty, which won the league's first four championships.
In the 2024 WNBA Draft, Commissioner Chathy Engelbert stated his goal of having 16 teams in the league by 2028.
In Cleveland, the league total would be 15.
