WNBA Expansion Plans: New Teams on the Horizon
As the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) looks to the future, exciting expansion plans are underway. By 2026, the league will grow from its current 12 teams to 15, welcoming teams in several strategic locations across North America.
The Golden State Valkyries will be joining the WNBA ranks in 2025, marking the first step in this significant expansion. Their introduction signifies not just an increase in the number of teams but also an enhancement of the league's presence on the West Coast. This move is a testament to the growing popularity and support for women's basketball in the Golden State, providing a robust platform for local talent to shine.
Portland and Toronto: New Frontiers
As the league charts its course toward a 15-team structure, Portland is set to receive its own WNBA franchise in 2026. This addition will mark Portland as a key city in the league’s future, tapping into the region's rich basketball heritage and fan enthusiasm. Meanwhile, Toronto is also on the verge of joining the league by 2026. As the first Canadian city to secure a WNBA team, Toronto’s entry signifies a historic step in the relationship between Canadian sports fans and the WNBA.
Potential Future Expansion
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert isn't stopping at 15 teams. She has expressed a clear intent to add a 16th team by the 2028 season, showing a long-term vision for sustainable growth and enhanced competitive balance in the league. Philadelphia and Kansas City have emerged as strong candidates for a future franchise, each offering unique benefits and supportive communities.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has been vocal about her city’s potential, stating, "We don't have a WNBA team here in the city of Philadelphia. Do any of y'all ever notice that? Y'all know y'all mayor don't like that." Her enthusiasm is backed by a sports-crazed city known for its passionate fan base across various sports.
On the Midwestern front, Kansas City is also making a compelling case. Public support from local sports figures like NFL star Patrick Mahomes amplifies the city's bid. "We want to get basketball to Kansas City in general and then WNBA. The success that they've had this last season and these last few seasons, it's kind of a no-brainer," Mahomes remarked, highlighting both his enthusiasm and the burgeoning interest in the sport within the city.
Reviving History in Houston?
Houston is another city exploring its return to the WNBA family. The city is rich with league history, having been home to the Houston Comets, the team that claimed the very first WNBA championship back in 1997. Businessman Tilman Fertitta has reportedly initiated talks to reestablish a franchise in this storied basketball city. This move could reignite a proud legacy and provide renewed opportunities for fans and players alike.
The Road Ahead
As the WNBA prepares for this expansive chapter, the league’s ambitions reflect its continued growth and the increasing popularity of women's basketball. The strategic placement of new teams in established markets and untapped regions alike suggests a blueprint based on growth, sustainability, and fan engagement.
The completion of this expansion plan will not only alter the competitive landscape of the WNBA but also expand its reach and audience, creating more avenues for showcasing talent and inspiring the next generation of athletes. The potential addition of a 16th team by 2028 aligns with Commissioner Engelbert's vision for the league's evolution, potentially cementing the WNBA’s status as a global powerhouse in women's professional sports.