The landscape of professional women's basketball is on the cusp of a transformative era. The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is orchestrating an ambitious expansion plan, which will see the league grow from its current 12 teams to 15 by 2026, with the possibility of a 16th team by 2028. This strategic move signals the league's commitment to broadening its reach and enhancing the sport's visibility and competitiveness.
New Teams on the Horizon
One of the most anticipated entries into the WNBA is the Golden State Valkyries, set to take the court in 2025. This addition marks an exciting chapter for the league, particularly in a region known for its passionate basketball fan base and storied NBA franchise, the Golden State Warriors.
Following the Valkyries, Portland will welcome a new team in 2026, ensuring that the Pacific Northwest gains another flagship team in the realm of women's basketball. The city is renowned for its fervent support of the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers, and there’s every expectation that a WNBA team will find a similarly receptive audience.
Alongside the West Coast expansions, the WNBA is setting its sights on Toronto, aiming to establish a franchise there by 2026. This marks a significant step in internationalizing the league, potentially bringing together a diverse fan base in Canada's largest city.
Future Aspirations and City Considerations
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has highlighted the league's ambition to further expand, suggesting the potential addition of a 16th franchise by the 2028 season. This long-term vision is a testament to the growing momentum and popularity of women's basketball on both a national and international scale.
Several cities are under consideration for future teams, with Philadelphia emerging as a notable candidate. Philadelphia's Mayor, Cherelle Parker, has voiced her support, pointing out the 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," she asserted, capturing the desire and potential support for a team in the city of brotherly love.
Kansas City is also in the mix, with interest brewing in hosting a WNBA team. The city's T-Mobile Arena, already a venue for college basketball events, represents a viable option for a new franchise. NFL Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes has thrown his weight behind the initiative, reinforcing the potential of the city as a vibrant hub for the sport. "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," Mahomes stated, underscoring the enthusiasm surrounding a potential Kansas City team.
Reviving a Legacy in Houston
Houston stands at a pivotal crossroads in the WNBA's expansion narrative. Once home to the Comets, who claimed the first-ever WNBA championship in 1997, the city is exploring avenues to reestablish its presence in the league. Discussions spearheaded by Tilman Fertitta signal an intent to revive the city's storied legacy in women's basketball.
The return of a team in Houston would not only resonate with nostalgia but also serve as a beacon for the league’s rich history and future potential. The Comets' early success laid a foundational stone for the WNBA, making any efforts to bring a team back to Houston a significant nod to its illustrious past.
As these cities navigate their respective bids to join or rejoin the WNBA, the league's expansion plan reflects a broader strategy to solidify its presence across North America. The inclusion of new teams promises to invigorate the game, attract new fans, and cement the WNBA's status as a pioneer in professional women's sport. As the 2026 deadline approaches, the excitement surrounding these emerging franchises is set to energize the league and inspire the next generation of players and fans alike.