Cleveland emerging as spot for latest WNBA expansion team
In a major development for the WNBA, reports from Sports Business Journal indicate that the league is gearing up to announce its next expansion franchise, and Cleveland is emerging as the likely destination.
It’d mark the return of the WNBA to Cleveland — a city that once hosted the original Rockers from 1997-2003.
The team was one of the original eight franchises of the league, and the owner at the time was Gordon Gund, who also owned the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers from 1983-2005.
Cleveland would follow in the footsteps of the Golden State Valkyries, who will enter the league this season, and the Toronto Tempo, who will join in 2026.
However, it’s not just Cleveland generating buzz.
Philadelphia has also emerged as a clear front-runner for a future franchise, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer, due to Comcast.
Comcast’s involvement goes beyond its long-standing partnership with the 76ers, which includes building a new arena in the Sports Complex to replace the Wells Fargo Center and acquiring an equity stake in the team.
Additionally, the Inquirer reported that Comcast recently secured WNBA broadcast rights as part of its 11-year, $2.5 billion NBA package launching this fall.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver has acknowledged Philadelphia’s strong interest in expanding the league, a sentiment echoed by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker.
Meanwhile, Cleveland’s bid is bolstered by a reportedly record-setting offer of $250 million from Dan Gilbert, who’s the current owner of the Cavaliers.
ball against the Phoenix Mercury during the 1998 WNBA
semifinals played in August of 1998 at the Gund Arena in
Cleveland, Ohio. NBAE via Getty Images
Houston also remains in the running.
The Houston Comets were the WNBA’s original dynasty, who won the league’s first four championships.
At the 2024 WNBA Draft, commissioner Cathy Engelbert stated her goal to have 16 teams in the league by 2028.
With Cleveland, that would bring the league’s total to 15.
