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Cleveland's New WNBA Team Isn't the Wolverines
April Fools' prank reveals the real name is still under wraps
Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:53pm
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The Rock Entertainment Group, which owns the Cleveland Cavaliers and other local sports franchises, released a fake announcement on April 1st claiming the city's upcoming WNBA team would be called the 'Wolverines'. However, the team's actual name is still under wraps as the franchise prepares to begin play in 2028.
Why it matters
Sports franchise names and branding are carefully considered to build a connection with the local community. The April Fools' prank highlights the anticipation and speculation around the new WNBA team's identity, which the organization is keeping under tight wraps until the official reveal.
The details
The Rock Entertainment Group, led by Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, announced the fake 'Wolverines' name on April 1st as an April Fools' joke. In a statement, the company said they are 'focused on building a team identity that feels authentic to this community and to the broader Midwest', indicating the real name is still being finalized.
- The Rock Entertainment Group released the fake 'Wolverines' name announcement on April 1, 2026.
- The new Cleveland WNBA franchise is set to begin play in 2028.
The players
The Rock Entertainment Group
The umbrella company that owns the Cleveland Cavaliers, G-League Charge, and AHL Monsters, as well as the upcoming WNBA franchise.
Dan Gilbert
The owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers and other sports franchises under The Rock Entertainment Group.
What’s next
The official name and branding for Cleveland's new WNBA team is expected to be revealed in the coming months as the franchise continues preparations for its 2028 debut season.
The takeaway
Sports franchises often use April Fools' Day as an opportunity for lighthearted pranks, but the real work continues behind the scenes to develop an authentic team identity that will resonate with local fans.
