The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is on the cusp of a transformative period, with significant expansion plans that are set to reshape the landscape of professional women's basketball in North America. By 2026, the league aims to grow from 12 to 15 teams, marking a pivotal moment in its history. This expansion strategy brings with it the promise of new rivalries, extended fan bases, and broader media attention.
New Teams on the Horizon
Leading the charge into this new era are three teams scheduled to join the league by 2026. The Golden State Valkyries are set to debut in 2025, bringing the flair and fervor of Bay Area sports culture to the WNBA. Following close on their heels, Portland will welcome a new franchise in 2026, infusing the Pacific Northwest with the vibrancy of women's professional basketball. Completing the trio is the much-anticipated Toronto franchise, also slated for a 2026 introduction. As the first Canadian team in the WNBA, Toronto's inclusion represents a significant milestone in the league's international appeal.
Ambitions for Further Growth
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has not stopped at simply meeting the 2026 expansion deadline. She is already casting her vision beyond, showing interest in adding a 16th franchise by the 2028 season. This forward-thinking approach underscores the league's ambition and the increasing popularity of women's basketball across diverse markets.
Philadelphia's Potential Entrants
Philadelphia is emerging as a strong contender for a future WNBA team. The city's Mayor, Cherelle Parker, has expressed her support for the idea, capturing the sentiment with a pointed observation: "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." Her words reflect a broader community interest and hint at the city's readiness to support professional women's basketball.
Kansas City's Growing Enthusiasm
Meanwhile, Kansas City is making significant strides in its quest to join the WNBA family. T-Mobile Arena, a prominent venue that has hosted college basketball events, stands ready to house a new team. Kansas City has garnered a powerful ally in NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes, who openly supports the move, saying, "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' backing not only draws attention to the city's bid but also reflects a growing local enthusiasm for women's sports.
Houston's Quest for Reclamation
On the southern front, Houston is weighing the possibility of reestablishing its presence in the WNBA. Once home to the legendary Comets, who claimed the inaugural WNBA championship in 1997, Houston is steeped in women's basketball history. Business magnate Tilman Fertitta has initiated conversations about bringing a team back to the city, a move that could revive the legacy of the Comets and reignite a passionate fan base.
As the WNBA gears up for this exciting phase of expansion, each potential city offers a unique narrative and an opportunity to further enrich the league's history. Whether it's the rekindling of past glories in Houston or the birth of new traditions in Toronto and Philadelphia, the league's future is brighter than ever.