Will Smith Invests in Philadelphia's 2030 WNBA Expansion Team

The actor's 0.1% stake in the new franchise highlights growing celebrity interest in women's sports.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:57pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the energy and movement of a WNBA basketball game with players' figures dissolving into colorful brushstrokes.Will Smith's investment in Philadelphia's new WNBA team signals growing celebrity interest in women's sports and the league's bright future.Philadelphia Today

Renowned actor Will Smith has decided to invest in the upcoming WNBA expansion team in his hometown of Philadelphia, set to debut in 2030. Smith's involvement, while a small 0.1% stake, carries significant symbolic weight and could inspire other celebrities to support women's basketball leagues.

Why it matters

Smith's investment highlights the growing interest and potential for women's sports, particularly the WNBA, which has recently finalized a new collective bargaining agreement and is expanding into new markets. Philadelphia's basketball infrastructure and fan engagement, as seen in the recent Unrivaled 3x3 doubleheader, make it an ideal location for a new WNBA franchise.

The details

The Philadelphia WNBA franchise will be owned by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, led by Josh Harris and David Blitzer, who have committed to investing at least $50 million in a dedicated practice facility. The ownership group also includes institutional investors and a minority stake from Comcast, providing a strong foundation for the team's future.

  • The WNBA has just finalized a seven-year collective bargaining agreement, paving the way for expansion.
  • The Philadelphia WNBA team is set to debut in 2030.

The players

Will Smith

A renowned actor and Philadelphia native who has invested a 0.1% stake in the city's upcoming WNBA expansion team.

Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment

The ownership group led by Josh Harris and David Blitzer that has been awarded the Philadelphia WNBA franchise, set to debut in 2030.

Josh Harris

The co-founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group of the Philadelphia WNBA team.

David Blitzer

The co-founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group of the Philadelphia WNBA team.

Comcast

The media and technology company that holds a minority stake in the ownership group of the Philadelphia WNBA team.

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What’s next

The Philadelphia WNBA team is set to debut in 2030, and its performance and fan engagement will be closely watched across the WNBA landscape.

The takeaway

Will Smith's investment in the Philadelphia WNBA team is a significant step towards greater recognition and support for women's sports. It could inspire other celebrities and investors to follow suit, further boosting the growth and visibility of the WNBA.