WNBA Announces Expansion To Historic 18 Teams With New Teams In Cleveland, Detroit And Philadelphia

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has announced an expansion plan, which will see the league grow to 18 teams with the addition of franchises in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia.

This expansion, pending approval from the WNBA and NBA Boards of Governors, showcases the league’s commitment to capitalising on the current momentum in women’s basketball by creating new player opportunities and tapping into established sports markets.

Articulating the driving force behind this expansion, WNBA commissioner, Cathy Engelbert said: “The demand for women’s basketball has never been higher, and we are thrilled to welcome Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia to the WNBA family.”

“This historic expansion is a powerful reflection of our league’s extraordinary momentum, the depth of talent across the game, and the surging demand for investment in women’s professional basketball,” Engelbert noted.

Engelbert also acknowledged the new ownership groups for their commitment to developing teams that resonate with their local communities.

These three new teams will complement the existing 15-team roster, which includes the recently launched Golden State Valkyries (inaugural season May 2025) and previously announced franchises in Toronto and Portland (both set to launch in 2026).

The Cleveland team is projected to commence play in 2028, followed by Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030.

The selection of these cities was based on a thorough evaluation of market viability, long-term ownership commitments, local fan engagement potential, corporate partnerships, and community support.

Each new franchise will be backed by established NBA ownership groups, a move that provides immediate infrastructure and operational stability.

This includes the Rock Entertainment Group (REG) in Cleveland, led by Dan Gilbert (owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers); Tom Gores, owner of the Detroit Pistons, leading the Detroit group; and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) in Philadelphia, led by Josh Harris.

Expressing confidence in Cleveland’s ability to support the returning league, Dan Gilbert, mentioned: “The WNBA’s return to Cleveland marks a pivotal moment for women’s sports… I’m confident that this team will honour our city’s women’s sports heritage and help cultivate the next generation of women’s basketball enthusiasts and athletes.”

Gores, added: “Today marks the long-hoped-for return of the WNBA… Our plans will bring new energy, investment and infrastructure to our city and the WNBA.”

For Philadelphia, a new WNBA market, Josh Harris highlighted the city’s basketball culture: “Philadelphia is one of the most storied basketball cities in the world… We are committed to building a world-class organization and fostering the continued growth of women’s professional sports in this great city.”

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