As the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) approaches a milestone expansion, excited whispers ripple through the basketball community. By 2026, the league plans to expand from 12 to 15 teams, with new franchises expected to energize fans across North America. Among the cities poised to join this elite coalition are San Francisco, Portland, and Toronto, with possibilities for further additions in Philadelphia, Kansas City, and Houston.
Expansion Plans Set in Motion
The announcement that the Golden State Valkyries will start their journey in the WNBA in 2025 has sparked significant excitement. Set to be based in San Francisco, the Valkyries will infuse a fresh dynamic into the league with the city's established basketball culture as a robust backdrop. It's a strategic addition for a league on the rise, promising to captivate a new audience and showcase emerging talent.
Portland is set to follow suit in 2026, reintroducing professional women's basketball to a city with a rich sporting tradition. Toronto's introduction to the league in the same year marks the WNBA's first expansion into Canada. This move not only broadens the league's international appeal but also taps into Toronto's vibrant basketball community, offering a fertile ground for growing the sport beyond U.S. borders.
Future Expansion Possibilities
Looking beyond 2026, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed an ambition to welcome a 16th franchise by 2028. Philadelphia and Kansas City both emerge as promising candidates for future teams. Philadelphia has already seen vocal support from city officials, including Mayor Cherelle Parker, who highlighted the absence of a WNBA team, stating, "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 support underscores the city's readiness to embrace women's professional basketball.
In Kansas City, a fervent sports culture and successful history in hosting college basketball events set the stage for a potential WNBA presence. Patrick Mahomes, a prominent figure in the city’s sports landscape, has been an active advocate for the WNBA's expansion there. Reflecting on the league's recent triumphs, Mahomes remarked, "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."
Prospects of a Return to Houston
Meanwhile, Houston is exploring reestablishing its presence in the WNBA. Conversations led by Tilman Fertitta, a notable sports executive, are rekindling the city's hopes of refilling the void left by the Houston Comets. The Comets, who clinched the inaugural WNBA championship in 1997, left an indelible mark on the league's early years. A revival in Houston could reignite that pioneering spirit, tapping into a legacy that once inspired a generation of fans.
The ongoing dialogue in these cities reflects the undeniable growth of the WNBA. With teams pegged for introduction in San Francisco, Portland, and Toronto, and potential franchises eyeing Philadelphia, Kansas City, and Houston, the league is poised for a transformative era. This expansion is not merely an addition to the league's roster but a testament to its enduring legacy and potential.
As the WNBA charts its future, each city brims with possibilities, harnessing unique basketball communities poised to bolster the league's narrative. With fresh teams, dedicated players, and passionate fans, the league's expansion promises to deliver a revitalized and inclusive chapter in the landscape of professional basketball.