WNBA Expansion: New Horizons and Storied Comebacks
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is preparing for a significant transformation. With plans to increase its roster from 12 to 15 teams by 2026, the league is poised to bring basketball to new arenas and rekindle the flame in cities with rich basketball histories.
Golden State Welcomes the Valkyries
The Golden State Valkyries will make their highly anticipated debut in the WNBA come 2025. The Bay Area, already steeped in basketball fervor with its NBA counterparts, promises to be fertile ground for fostering enthusiasm for women's basketball. The Valkyries will add a new dimension to the WNBA, tapping into a region known for its passionate sports fans and dynamic sporting culture.
New Grounds in Portland and Toronto
As the WNBA looks to expand its reach, 2026 will see the introduction of a team in Portland. Known for its hip culture and vibrant fan base, Portland is sure to provide a spirited home for women's basketball. Another major urban hub, Toronto, will host a new franchise by the same year, marking a significant northward expansion for the league. As the WNBA extends its borders, Canadian fans can anticipate an exciting slate of games on home soil.
Beyond the Horizon: Philadelphia and Kansas City
Philadelphia, a city with a proud sporting history, is being touted as a potential WNBA destination. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has already voiced her support, pointing out the city's absence from the league. "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 emphasized, underlining her intent to bring women's professional basketball to the city.
Meanwhile, Kansas City is making its case with high-profile support for hosting a WNBA team. Patrick Mahomes, celebrated quarterback and a strong advocate for increasing sports offerings in Kansas City, stated, "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." With facilities like the T-Mobile Arena, which has experience hosting college basketball events, Kansas City is well-positioned to embrace a new team.
The Return of the Houston Comets?
Houston, one of the original hotbeds of WNBA passion, is exploring the possibility of reigniting its basketball legacy. Previously represented by the Houston Comets, who clinched the league's first-ever championship in 1997, the city has a storied history in women's basketball. Tilman Fertitta has initiated conversations about reestablishing a WNBA team in the city, potentially resurrecting a fan favorite in the Comets.
Eyes on a Future Expansion
Beyond these projects, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is contemplating even further growth, expressing interest in adding a 16th franchise by the 2028 season. As cities vie for inclusion in this elite sporting network, the expansion underscores the league's growing footprint and increasing popularity.
As the WNBA fans anticipate the arrival of new teams and celebrate the potential revival of iconic names, it remains clear that the league is on an upward trajectory, embracing opportunities to bring basketball to diverse communities. With expanding franchises, passionate advocates, and supportive fans, the future of women's basketball promises to be as dynamic as the game itself.