WNBA to Expand to 18 Teams by 2030
The WNBA is set to grow, adding three new teams—Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia—by 2030. This increase will bring the league’s total to 18 teams over the next five years.
Cleveland is expected to kick off its season in 2028, while Detroit and Philadelphia plan to join the following years, contingent upon committee approvals from both the NBA and WNBA. Notably, Toronto and Portland will also enter the league next year.
WNBA commissioner Kathy Engelbert expressed excitement about the expansion, emphasizing the rising demand for women’s basketball. “This historic expansion showcases the incredible momentum in our league and reflects the growing interest in investing in women’s professional basketball,” she stated.
Each new team is backed by NBA-owned groups that paid an expansion fee of $250 million. That’s quite a jump, about five times what Golden State had to pay a few years back. Additionally, these new franchises are committing funds toward constructing practice facilities and other features.
Nic Barlage, CEO of Rock Entertainment Group and the Cavaliers, noted that existing basketball infrastructure in these cities makes the expansion a logical step. “If you already have successful strategies and cultures, transitioning to the WNBA feels quite natural,” he commented.
Interestingly, Cleveland and Detroit have prior experience in the WNBA, and Philadelphia once boasted an ABL team.
Detroit Pistons owner Tom Goreth celebrated the move, referring to it as a “huge win” for his city and the WNBA. He pointed out Detroit’s significant history with basketball and its role in the league’s growth over the years, expressing pride in reviving that legacy.
Some noted figures in sports, including Grant Hill, Chris Weber, and Jared Goff, will have minor ownership stakes in the Detroit team.
As for naming the Cleveland and Detroit teams, traditional tie-ins to past franchises like the Shock are being considered, but Barlage stressed the importance of engagement with fans before finalizing any branding decisions.
While the new teams will initially play in existing NBA arenas, there are plans for Philadelphia to unveil a new venue by 2030.
“We’re aiming for a 2031 opening,” said Josh Harris, managing partner of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, which owns the 76ers. He added that they are navigating challenges associated with venue logistics.
The addition of these three teams will enhance rivalries, particularly in proximity to one another in the East Coast region.
Arn Thelem, vice president of the Detroit Pistons, hinted at the historical competition between these cities, suggesting that it will translate into engaging rivalries in the WNBA.
Several other cities, such as St. Louis, Kansas City, Austin, Nashville, Houston, Miami, Denver, and Charlotte, submitted bids for teams but were unsuccessful.
Engelbert commented on the selection process, acknowledging uncertainty regarding demand levels last fall. “Given the high demand and supply, we carefully considered how to manage teams and rosters,” she explained.
Growth metrics like attendance, television ratings, and sponsorships have shown impressive increases in recent seasons.
Barlage highlighted the community significance of having a women’s professional sports team. He noted a distinct rise in girl participation within the Cavs Youth Academy, citing a 30% annual growth rate among young female players.
