WNBA Expands to Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia

League approves three new franchises as part of major growth plan through 2030.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:06pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented WNBA basketball game, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives capturing the dynamic energy of the sport.The WNBA's expansion to new markets reflects the league's rapid growth and commitment to elevating women's professional basketball.Philadelphia Today

The WNBA has officially approved the addition of three new expansion franchises in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia. The new teams will debut between 2028-2030, growing the league to 18 total teams. This expansion comes alongside a historic new collective bargaining agreement that will significantly increase player salaries.

Why it matters

The WNBA's rapid expansion to new major markets demonstrates the surging popularity of women's professional basketball. The league is capitalizing on this momentum to bring the sport to more fans across the country, while also securing a landmark pay deal to better compensate its players.

The details

The WNBA Board of Governors has authorized the addition of franchises in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia, with the teams set to debut in 2028, 2029, and 2030 respectively. This expansion will grow the league from its current 13 teams to 18 total, including the recently announced Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo franchises launching in 2023. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert cited 'huge demand' from cities interested in joining the league.

  • The Cleveland franchise will debut in 2028.
  • The Detroit franchise will debut in 2029.
  • The Philadelphia franchise will debut in 2030.

The players

Cathy Engelbert

The WNBA Commissioner, who expressed excitement about the league's expansion and growth.

Nneka Ogwumike

The President of the WNBPA, who spoke about the importance of the league's new historic collective bargaining agreement that will significantly increase player salaries.

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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, President of the WNBPA

What’s next

The WNBA draft will take place on April 13, 2026, as the league prepares for the upcoming 2023 season that will feature the new Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo franchises.

The takeaway

The WNBA's rapid expansion to new major markets like Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia, coupled with a landmark pay deal for players, demonstrates the league's surging popularity and commitment to growing the sport of women's professional basketball across the country.