The WNBA is experiencing a period of significant growth, announcing the addition of three new teams: Philadelphia, Cleveland, and Detroit. This expansion reflects the increasing popularity of women's basketball and the league's commitment to reaching new markets.
Philadelphia Lands a WNBA Team for 2030
Philadelphia has been awarded a WNBA expansion team that will begin playing in the 2030 season. The team will be owned and operated by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the same group that owns the Philadelphia 76ers. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed her excitement, stating, "Philadelphia has long deserved a WNBA team, and we’re proud to say that today is officially the day." The team is slated to play in the new sports complex arena, also home to the Sixers and Flyers, aiming for completion by 2031. If the arena isn't ready by 2030, the team will temporarily play at the Wells Fargo Center.
Cleveland and Detroit Welcome Back WNBA Franchises
Cleveland will see the return of a WNBA team in 2028. The new franchise will be owned and operated by Rock Entertainment Group (REG), led by Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert. Cleveland previously hosted the Cleveland Rockers, one of the league's original teams, from 1997 to 2003.
Detroit is also welcoming back a WNBA team, set to begin play in 2029. Tom Gores, along with his wife Holly and others, will own the team. Gores also owns the Detroit Pistons. Detroit was home to the Detroit Shock from 1998 to 2009, a highly successful franchise that won three WNBA championships before relocating.
League Expansion and Future Plans
These three teams join other recent additions like the Golden State Valkyries, Toronto Tempo, and a team in Portland, Oregon, scheduled to begin play in 2026. The WNBA is considering bringing back the Rockers and Shock nicknames but is also open to new branding options for the Cleveland and Detroit franchises. This expansion aims to bring the league up to 18 teams, reflecting the growing demand for women's basketball and the league's increasing popularity.
- Cleveland: Starting in 2028
- Detroit: Starting in 2029
- Philadelphia: Starting in 2030