As the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) plots its course for expansion, basketball fans across North America are eagerly anticipating the league's growth. By 2026, the WNBA plans to increase its footprint from 12 to 15 teams, bringing professional women's basketball to cities that have shown a keen interest in hosting a franchise.
New Teams on the Horizon
In an exciting move, the Golden State Valkyries will be taking to the courts in 2025, bringing the electrifying presence of WNBA action to the Golden State. Following closely, in 2026, Portland will welcome its own team, reinvigorating the city's basketball spirit and offering fans another sporting spectacle.
That same year, Toronto is set to join the league. This marks a significant expansion into Canada, potentially tapping into a new base of passionate basketball fans and setting the stage for a burgeoning cross-border rivalry in women's sports.
Future Prospects: Philadelphia, Kansas City, and More
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed ambitions beyond 2026, with hopes to introduce a 16th franchise by 2028. While no final decision has been made, Philadelphia and Kansas City have emerged as strong contenders for future team placement.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has been vocal about the city's potential for hosting a team. "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 stated, highlighting her support and underscoring the city's readiness to embrace professional women's basketball.
Similarly, Kansas City has shown a keen interest in joining the league. Patrick Mahomes, a prominent voice in the city's sports community, lent his support: "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 well-suited T-Mobile Arena in Kansas City already hosts various college basketball events, making it a strong candidate for accommodating a WNBA team.
Houston Eyeing a Comeback
In another intriguing development, Houston is exploring the idea of reinstating its presence in the WNBA. The city was previously home to the Houston Comets, a team that captured the first-ever WNBA championship in 1997 and left an indelible mark on the league.
Tilman Fertitta, a name well-known in the sports and business community, has initiated conversations aimed at reviving a Houston team. The move could re-establish Houston as a pivotal location in WNBA history and present an opportunity to celebrate the legacy of the Comets while inspiring a new generation of basketball fans.
A Path Forward
The WNBA's expansion plans come at a time when the league is gaining traction and popularity, thanks in part to high-caliber athletes and increasingly competitive games. The addition of new teams broadens the league's reach and showcases the growing appetite for women's sports across North America.
As these cities vie for a spot in the expanding league, fans and local officials alike are rallying support, anticipating the economic and cultural benefits that a WNBA franchise can bring. Enthusiasts in Philadelphia, Kansas City, Houston, and beyond wait with bated breath for official announcements as they dream of the thrill and inspiration that a home team can deliver.