WNBA Expanding to 18 Teams: Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia Join the League

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) announced a significant expansion, adding three new teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia by 2030. This expansion, subject to WNBA and NBA Board of Governors approval, brings the league to a record 18 teams and underscores the WNBA’s remarkable growth and popularity.

A Historic Expansion for the WNBA

This expansion marks a pivotal moment in the WNBA’s history, reflecting the league’s considerable momentum and the increasing demand for women’s professional basketball. The addition of Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia—cities with rich basketball histories and passionate fanbases—promises to significantly expand the league’s reach and impact. Each new franchise represents a substantial investment, with ownership groups paying a reported $250 million expansion fee.

The New Franchises: Ownership and Timeline

The new teams will join the league over the next five years, with staggered entry dates:

• Cleveland: Will begin play in 2028, owned and operated by Rock Entertainment Group (REG), chaired by Dan Gilbert, who also owns the Cleveland Cavaliers. REG’s portfolio includes several other Cleveland sports teams, highlighting the commitment to the city’s sports landscape. This marks a return for the WNBA to Cleveland, after the Cleveland Rockers played from 1997 to 2003.

• Detroit: Will commence play in 2029, with ownership led by Tom Gores, owner of the Detroit Pistons and Chairman and CEO of Platinum Equity. This also represents a return to Detroit, where the Detroit Shock played from 1998 to 2009, winning three WNBA championships. Gores emphasized a commitment to building a strong team and investing in the Detroit community.

• Philadelphia: Will begin play in 2030 under the ownership of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), expanding their already diverse sports portfolio. HBSE highlighted Philadelphia’s rich basketball history and expressed commitment to building a world-class organization.

WNBA’s Continued Growth and Success

The WNBA’s expansion comes amidst a period of unprecedented growth and success. The league has been recognized for its rapid brand growth and innovative approach, setting records in engagement, attendance, merchandise sales, and viewership. This expansion further solidifies the WNBA’s position as a leading sports league, demonstrating the increasing investment and interest in women’s professional sports.

The Significance of This Expansion

The expansion into Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia carries profound significance:

• Increased Player Opportunities: The addition of three new teams creates more opportunities for players, expanding rosters and increasing competition.
• Geographic Expansion: The decision to expand into these geographically diverse markets broadens the WNBA’s reach and fanbase.
• Financial Investment: The substantial expansion fees demonstrate the confidence in the WNBA’s future financial prospects.
• Community Impact: The ownership groups’ commitments to community engagement and investment will positively impact the local areas.

Key Takeaways:

• The WNBA is expanding to 18 teams, adding Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia by 2030.
• Each new franchise represents a significant financial investment and commitment.
• The expansion reflects the WNBA’s remarkable growth and success.
• The new teams will create more opportunities for players and expand the league’s reach.
• The expansion signals a bright future for women’s professional basketball.