In a significant move for women's sports, the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is set to grow its presence with the addition of three new franchises by 2026, expanding the league to a total of 15 teams. This development is poised to enhance the WNBA's footprint across North America, with ambitious plans afoot to introduce teams in the bustling markets of San Francisco, Portland, and Toronto.
California Welcomes the Golden State Valkyries
Leading the charge in this expansion is the Golden State Valkyries, scheduled to join the league in 2025. The Valkyries will bring professional women's basketball to an area already deeply steeped in basketball tradition and success, notably the home of the NBA's Golden State Warriors. This move not only capitalizes on the Bay Area's rich sports culture but also leverages the fervent fan base eager for new avenues of sporting entertainment.
Portland and Toronto Set to Join the WNBA Roster
The WNBA's strategic expansion continues with the introduction of a team in Portland by 2026. Known for its passionate sports fans, Portland's inclusion is a natural progression that aligns with the city's dynamic athletic spirit. Further east, Toronto is also slated to house a WNBA team by 2026, marking a significant step in internationalizing the league and tapping into Canada's burgeoning basketball scene.
Philadelphia and Kansas City Emerge as Contenders
Beyond these confirmed additions, the league's commitment to growth remains strong, with Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressing interest in adding a 16th franchise by the 2028 season. Philadelphia is a city of particular interest, supported by its mayor, Cherelle Parker, who has noted the conspicuous absence of a WNBA team in the city. "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," Parker remarked, showcasing her support for the expansion.
Meanwhile, Kansas City has thrown its hat into the ring, backed by local sports icon Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes, reflecting on the recent success of the league, commented, "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." The presence of T-Mobile Arena, which has previously hosted college basketball events, further boosts Kansas City's candidacy.
Houston Eyes a WNBA Revival
Houston is not left behind in the expansion conversation. The city, once home to the legendary Houston Comets, the inaugural WNBA champions in 1997, is weighing its options for rejoining the league. Talks led by Tilman Fertitta are underway to reestablish a WNBA team in Houston, rekindling the city's historical connection to women's basketball.
This expansion strategy is more than just increasing the number of teams; it's about integrating the league deeper into communities, expanding its cultural impact, and setting a solid foundation for future growth. By 2028, with the potential addition of a 16th team, the WNBA is not only preparing to reinforce its domestic reach but also aiming to establish a formidable international presence through its strategic choice of cities.
As these exciting developments unfold, the emphasis on tapping into enthusiastic sports markets and recognizing regions with rich basketball traditions highlights the WNBA's commitment to broadening its audience and enriching the sport of women's basketball across North America.