An Exciting New Era for the WNBA: Expansion and Potential Cities
In a bold move to heighten its profile and presence on the sports scene, the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is setting the stage for a dynamic expansion. By 2026, the league aims to increase its roster of teams from the current dozen to 15, marking a new era of growth in women's professional basketball.
The expansion plan is already taking shape, with the announcement that a team dubbed the Golden State Valkyries will enter the league in 2025. Following shortly thereafter, the passionate basketball hub of Portland will welcome its own franchise in 2026. Toronto, another city with a rich sporting tradition, is also set to join the league by 2026.
These developments not only reflect the growing popularity and competitive spirit of women's basketball but also underscore the WNBA’s strategy of tapping into markets ripe for the cultivation of a dedicated fan base. League Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has been at the forefront, advocating for this expansion as a means of enhancing the league's reach and influence. Engelbert has even teased the possibility of a 16th franchise materializing by the 2028 season, signaling an ongoing commitment to the league’s long-term growth.
Philadelphia Aims for a Spot in the League
Philadelphia, a city with a storied sports tradition, finds itself under the spotlight as a potential host for a future WNBA team. The city has several champions advocating for its inclusion in the league’s ambitious plans. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker candidly highlights this sentiment, expressing dissatisfaction with the absence of a WNBA team by 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."
Mayor Parker’s enthusiasm is shared by the community, which boasts a fervent sporting culture and a deeply-rooted appreciation for basketball. The support for a WNBA team could introduce a new chapter in Philadelphia's rich sports narrative.
Kansas City Envisions a Bright Future
Across the country, Kansas City emerges as another city eager to bring the WNBA to its fervent sports fanatics. The city's T-Mobile Arena, already a well-known venue for college basketball events, offers a solid foundation for hosting a professional women's basketball team.
Kansas City's bid is bolstered by public figures like NFL star Patrick Mahomes, who vocalizes his support: "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’ endorsement stands as a notable testament to the city's desire and readiness to support a WNBA franchise.
Houston and the Legacy of the Comets
Meanwhile, in Houston, there is a palpable sense of nostalgia and excitement as conversations heat up regarding the potential return of a WNBA team. The city's last representation was the storied Houston Comets, who etched their name in history by clinching the league's inaugural championship in 1997.
Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta has initiated talks about reviving the city's presence in the WNBA, an endeavor that promises to reinvigorate the local basketball scene. Given the historic success and fan base of the original Comets, there's a solid foundation upon which a new team could build.
The Road Ahead
The WNBA's expansion efforts mark a significant milestone in the league’s journey, fueled by a dedication to enhance visibility and engagement with fans across North America. As the league sets sights on new territories, cities like Philadelphia, Kansas City, and Houston present compelling cases for inclusion.
With plans for expansion unfolding and high-profile advocates supporting local efforts, the coming years promise to be thrilling for women’s professional basketball, propelling the WNBA to new heights in its bid to capture the hearts and minds of sports enthusiasts everywhere.