WNBA Expands to Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia by 2030

The WNBA will add teams in Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029), and Philadelphia (2030), pending approval from the NBA and WNBA Board of Governors. Toronto and Portland are set to join the league next year.

Each new team paid a $250 million expansion fee, signaling significant investment in the league's future. Why does this matter? This substantial investment highlights the rising value and potential of women's professional basketball.

The new teams will benefit from existing NBA infrastructure, with Cleveland and Detroit utilizing current NBA arenas. Philadelphia plans to construct a new arena, slated for completion by 2031, potentially opening in 2030.

Ownership groups for the new teams include prominent figures such as Dan Gilbert (Cleveland Cavaliers), Tom Gores (Detroit Pistons), and Josh Harris (Philadelphia 76ers). Detroit's ownership also includes minority stakes for Grant Hill, Chris Webber, and Jared Goff.

Both Cleveland and Detroit have a history with the WNBA, while Philadelphia previously hosted an ABL team. The return of the WNBA to these cities aims to reignite basketball legacies and foster new rivalries.

Cleveland:: Will begin play in 2028 at Rocket Arena, home of the Cavaliers, and will retrofit a practice facility in Independence, Ohio.

Detroit:: Will join in 2029 at Little Caesars Arena, home of the Pistons, with plans to build a new practice facility.

Philadelphia:: Set to debut in 2030, pending the completion of a new arena in downtown Philadelphia. The 76ers have a practice facility in Camden, New Jersey.

Q: When will the new WNBA teams begin playing?

Q: How much did the expansion teams cost?

Q: Where will the new teams play?

Stay Informed:: Follow the progress of the new teams as they develop their brands and build their rosters.

Support Women's Sports:: Attend games, watch broadcasts, and engage with the WNBA on social media to show your support.