Cleveland Set to Reclaim a WNBA Franchise
Cleveland is on the verge of reclaiming a place in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) with a new expansion franchise expected to join the league in the 2028 season, according to a report by Sports Business Journal. The franchise is slated to play at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, the iconic venue that also serves as the home court of the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers. Cleveland’s return to the WNBA brings back the Cleveland Rockers moniker, a name that harks back to the city’s previous WNBA team, which operated from 1997 to 2003. With a bid worth a league-record $250 million, Cleveland’s chances of securing an expansion team stand at a robust 90%, as reported by SBJ’s Tom Friend. The significant investment underscores the city’s commitment to women’s sports and its belief in the WNBA’s growing prominence and potential.
Expansion Beyond Cleveland
While Cleveland’s bid is the frontrunner, the WNBA’s expansion plans may extend beyond this single franchise. The league is considering adding one or two more teams to its roster, potentially bringing the total number of teams to 18. Cities like Philadelphia, Houston, Nashville, Detroit, and Miami are at the forefront of this next wave of expansion. Philadelphia, in particular, is viewed favorably due to the partnerships established by 76ers team owner Josh Harris, who has collaborated with Comcast to develop a new arena for the Sixers and the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers. This new venue would provide a state-of-the-art home for a potential Philadelphia WNBA team.
Houston: A Strong Contender
Houston is another strong candidate for an expansion franchise, thanks to the robust organization under Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta. The city recently constructed a 75,000-square-foot practice facility, demonstrating a commitment to infrastructure and player development. The Houston Comets, one of the original and most successful WNBA teams, won four consecutive league championships from 1997 to 2000. The Comets’ shuttering in 2008 left a void in the city, and the prospect of a return has reignited local enthusiasm for women’s basketball. The financial backing and historical significance of the Comets make Houston a compelling choice for expansion.
Other Cities in the Running
Several other cities have also placed bids for WNBA expansion teams, adding to the league’s potential for growth and diversity. Denver, St. Louis, Austin, Texas, Kansas City, Jacksonville, Charlotte, and Milwaukee are among the contenders. Each city brings unique strengths to the table. In St. Louis, Celtics star Jayson Tatum is a key investor, adding star power and appeal to the bid. Austin’s group includes Kevin Durant, further enhancing the city’s profile. Kansas City has Patrick Mahomes among its investors, while former WNBA star Candace Parker is part of the Nashville investors group, bringing both local and national recognition and support.
Financial and Historical Context
The financial landscape of WNBA expansion is notable, with Cleveland’s $250 million bid setting a new benchmark. This amount is twice what Toronto and Portland paid for their expansion fees, highlighting the growing value and appeal of WNBA franchises. The league’s application for trademarks to three other former franchise names—Houston Comets, Detroit Shock, and Miami Sol—signals a blend of reverence for past success and strategic branding. These names carry historical significance and could capitalize on established fan bases and brand recognition.
Looking Forward: A New Era for the WNBA
The potential addition of Cleveland, along with possibly two more teams, marks a new era for the WNBA. The league’s expansion plans reflect a growing recognition of women’s basketball and the increasing financial viability of WNBA teams. With three expansion teams set to join the league over the next two years—beginning with the Golden State Valkyries in the upcoming season, followed by teams in Toronto and Portland in 2026—the future of the WNBA looks promising. As the league continues to grow and attract investors, it is poised to solidify its position as a premier sports organization, fostering talent, engaging communities, and inspiring a new generation of athletes and fans.
