WNBA Reveals Massive Expansion Plans Amid Rising Popularity

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert shared an optimistic outlook on Monday, projecting that the WNBA will expand to include 16 teams by 2028 and aims to introduce a 14th team by 2026.

This expansion plan comes as women’s basketball continues to surge in popularity, prompting calls from players and fans for more teams. Currently, the league consists of 12 teams, each with a 12-player roster, capping the total number of league players at 144.

Last year, the WNBA announced the introduction of a 13th franchise, which will be based in the San Francisco Bay Area and managed by the Golden State Warriors. This marks the league’s first addition since the Atlanta Dream in 2008.

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Engelbert explained the complexities of establishing new teams, emphasizing the necessity of securing arenas, practice facilities, player accommodations, and dedicated ownership. “The good news is that we’re receiving considerable interest and are actively discussing potential expansions with several cities,” Engelbert stated. Cities under consideration include Philadelphia, Toronto, Portland, Denver, Nashville, and various locations in South Florida.

The commissioner also touched on operational aspects, such as the league’s decision to provide charter flights for players during the playoffs and back-to-back games. This comes as part of a broader effort to improve conditions for players, reflecting the league’s transition “from survive to thrive,” according to Engelbert. The WNBA anticipates spending around $4 million on charter flights this year, mirroring last year’s investment.

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Further details were shared about the upcoming expansion draft for the new Golden State team, which is set to take place in December. The team will host games at the Chase Center in San Francisco and utilize the Warriors’ former practice facilities in Oakland.

Engelbert highlighted the presence of prominent players in this year’s draft, such as Caitlin Clark, whose NCAA finals performance drew record viewership, demonstrating the growing public interest and media coverage of women’s basketball. “It’s crucial we leverage the profile of these emerging stars to enhance our marketing efforts,” she remarked.

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The WNBA’s proactive stance on expansion and player welfare underscores its commitment to leveraging the current momentum within women’s basketball to foster growth and enhance the sport’s national and international profile.