WNBA Approves Expansion Into 3 New Cities

League will add teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia over the next 4 years.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:25am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented WNBA basketball game, with overlapping planes of navy, red, and gold colors creating a dynamic, abstract composition.The WNBA's expansion into new markets reflects the growing popularity and demand for women's professional basketball.Philadelphia Today

The WNBA announced the formal approval of expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia on Thursday. The new franchises will begin play in 2028, 2029, and 2030 respectively, bringing the total number of WNBA teams up to 18 from the current 13.

Why it matters

The WNBA's expansion into these three major markets represents significant growth for the league, which has seen increased interest and demand for new franchises. The additions will help expand the WNBA's reach and fanbase across the Midwest and East Coast.

The details

The WNBA's expansion plans call for Cleveland to start play in 2028, followed by Detroit in 2029 and Philadelphia in 2030. This expansion comes on the heels of the league adding the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo franchises in recent years. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert cited 'great demand for WNBA franchises' as a key driver behind the league's growth strategy.

  • The WNBA announced the expansion approvals on April 10, 2026.
  • Cleveland's new team will begin play in 2028.
  • Detroit's new team will begin play in 2029.
  • Philadelphia's new team will begin play in 2030.

The players

Cathy Engelbert

WNBA Commissioner who announced the league's expansion plans.

Nneka Ogwumike

President of the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA).

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What they’re saying

“Great demand for WNBA franchises. There was huge demand. Really proud of what my team has done. Looking forward to future conversations as the league continues to grow.”

— Cathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner

“We love this game enough to push for what it can become, not just for ourselves, but for those who built this league and those who will carry it forward.”

— Nneka Ogwumike, WNBPA President

What’s next

The WNBA's free agency signing period is set to begin on Saturday, April 12, 2026, followed by the collegiate draft on Monday, April 14, 2026.

The takeaway

The WNBA's expansion into Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia represents a significant milestone for the league, as it continues to grow its fanbase and solidify its position as a major professional sports league in North America.