The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) appears to be on the verge of an exciting era of expansion, with plans to expand the league from its current 12 teams to 15 by 2026. This ambitious move marks a significant moment in women's professional basketball and reflects the growing popularity and demand for the sport across North America.
New Horizons
Leading the charge in this expansion is the Golden State Valkyries, who are set to join the ranks of the WNBA in 2025. This addition is not just a testament to the strength of basketball on the West Coast but also highlights the strategic regional growth thoughtfully executed by the league.
Following closely, a new franchise is anticipated to tip off in Portland by 2026. This move positions the Pacific Northwest as a burgeoning hotspot for sports enthusiasts and continues to build on the history of basketball fervor in the area.
The expansion does not stop there. Toronto, already a vibrant sports hub, is slated to receive a franchise by 2026, bringing the WNBA's distinctive blend of athleticism and excitement to Canadian fans. This is a significant step in solidifying the sport’s international reach and providing a new platform for Canadian players and fans alike.
More Teams on the Horizon
There's also chatter about further expansion beyond 2026. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed a keen interest in introducing a 16th franchise by 2028. Among the cities in consideration, Philadelphia emerges as a prime candidate. The city's sports popularity and infrastructure present a compelling case for a WNBA team.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has thrown her support behind this potential development, 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 comments underscore the city's readiness and desire to welcome a professional women's basketball team.
Kansas City's Ambitions
Another city with eyes on the prize is Kansas City. Embodied by the enthusiasm of NFL star and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, the city showcases a palpable interest in the WNBA. Mahomes has openly advocated for expanding basketball in the region, saying, "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."
Supporting this vision, Kansas City's T-Mobile Arena, which has a history of hosting college basketball events, would be a natural venue for a new team, providing a ready-made home for the sport.
Houston's Historic Ties
Beyond the prospect of new territories, the WNBA is also exploring the possibility of reestablishing a presence in cities with historical significance to the league. Houston is one such city. Previously, the Houston Comets were a formidable force in the league, clinching the first-ever WNBA championship in 1997. The city has a rich basketball legacy that stakeholders are keen to revive.
Tilman Fertitta, a prominent figure in Houston's business and sports landscape, has initiated conversations about bringing professional women's basketball back to the city. With his influence and resources, the talks signal a serious commitment to restoring Houston as a home for WNBA excellence.
As the league embarks on this journey of expansion, fans and stakeholders await with anticipation. These strategic moves not only broaden the geographical footprint of the WNBA but also harness the local passion for basketball, ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of the sport. The future looks bright for the WNBA, with new teams on the horizon and a reinvigorated interest in cities across North America.