WNBA's Newest Expansion Franchise City Gets Revealed, Eyes 2 More Teams

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Grant Afseth | Last updated Feb 16, 2025 4:31 PM ET

The WNBA is poised for significant expansion. Cleveland is expected to introduce a franchise soon and add two more teams, bringing the league's total to 18.

According to the Sports Business Journal, Cleveland's bid, estimated to be worth $250 million (WNBA record), is highly likely to be approved. An announcement is expected by March.

Sports Business Journal also reported cities such as Philadelphia, Houston, Nashville, Detroit, and Miami are strongly contending for additional franchise slots besides Cleveland. Initially planning to add just one new team, the WNBA is considering expanding to as many as 18 clubs.

Cleveland's expansion franchise is expected to enter the league in the 2028 season. The team will compete at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse under the restored name of the Cleveland Rockers, the former WNBA team that ceased operations in 2003.

Houston is also a likely candidate for the 17th franchise, buoyed by the recent construction of a 75,000-square-foot practice facility and the financial backing of Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta. Philadelphia's bid is strengthened by a partnership between 76ers owner Josh Harris and Comcast to build a new arena that would house a WNBA team alongside the 76ers and Flyers.

The planned expansion underscores the WNBA's strong market demand as 13 cities compete for the next expansion teams. Notable investments from NBA players like Jayson Tatum (St. Louis) and Kevin Durant (Austin) are reportedly involved in bids.

The anticipation for the Golden State Valkyries is significant as they enter the league in 2025. The league has Portland and Toronto expansion teams set to join the competition in 2026.

The financial impact and fan base enthusiasm for adding more franchises will elevate the WNBA to even greater heights as the league prepares for three new teams.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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