The landscape of women's professional basketball is set for a significant transformation as the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) unveils its ambitious expansion plans. By the year 2026, the league aims to increase its roster from the current 12 teams to 15, introducing a mixture of geographical diversity and historic nods to its tough, competitive spirit.
Golden State and Portland Prepare for Takeoff
One of the most notable developments is the addition of the Golden State Valkyries, who are slated to join the league in 2025. This move signifies a strategic expansion into the Bay Area, further capitalizing on the region's rich basketball culture thriving under the Golden State Warriors' NBA success.
In 2026, Portland will once again be brought into the fold of professional basketball. While the city is already home to the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers, the arrival of a WNBA team is expected to revitalize the city's basketball enthusiasm and provide fans with more opportunities to engage with the sport they love.
Toronto and Beyond: International and Domestic Growth
As part of its vision for expansion, the WNBA will also establish a new franchise in Toronto by 2026. The Canadian city, boasting a vibrant sports community, particularly after the Toronto Raptors' historic NBA championship win in 2019, represents a strategic move towards international expansion. It reflects the league's commitment to growing its global brand and embracing international audiences.
Looking further ahead, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has hinted at the possible introduction of a 16th franchise by the 2028 season. The league's steady growth, coupled with an increase in popularity and viewership in recent years, makes this idea not just feasible but exciting for stakeholders and fans alike.
American Cities in the Mix
Domestically, Philadelphia and Kansas City have emerged as strong contenders for future WNBA teams. Philadelphia's push is bolstered by local political support. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has openly advocated for the city's inclusion, expressing her wish to have a team grace the courts of this basketball-loving city. "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," she stated, underscoring her determination to see this goal come to fruition.
Kansas City also makes a compelling case. Known for its passionate sports fan base and T-Mobile Arena's history of hosting college basketball events, the city has attracted attention with promises of active support from locals and athletes alike. NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes, among others, has thrown his weight behind the city’s aspirations, noting, "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."
Houston’s Legacy and Potential Return
Meanwhile, Houston is exploring the possibility of reestablishing a WNBA team, paying homage to its storied past. Conversations spearheaded by Tilman Fertitta suggest that the city, once home to the legendary Houston Comets, is ready for a comeback. The Comets, winners of the league's first-ever championship in 1997, left an indelible mark on the WNBA narrative, and Houston's reentry could rekindle those glory days.
These expansion efforts underline WNBA’s commitment to widening the scope of women's basketball and responding to a growing demand for representation in untapped markets. As new franchises get ready to take the court, they stand not only for competition but for community, inspiring a new generation of basketball talent and fans.
With these strategic developments, the WNBA is poised not only to grow its competitive landscape but also to deepen its roots in the cities that wholeheartedly embrace the combination of athletic prowess and sportsmanship. As anticipation builds, eyes will stay on the league’s next moves, waiting to see which city becomes home to the next chapter in WNBA history.