WNBA expansion: Cleveland, Detroit, Philadelphia to join women’s league

Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029) and Philadelphia (2030) are set to have their own women’s basketball team.

The WNBA and NBA Board of Governors announced Thursday that the WNBA has granted expansion teams for Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia.

Cleveland will make its debut in 2028, followed by Detroit (2029) and Philadelphia (2030).

The entry of three cities will extend the WNBA’s team count from 15 to 18.

Both Cleveland and Detroit are set to rejoin the WNBA. Previously, Cleveland served as the home of the Rockers, while Detroit was represented by the three-time champion Shock.

The three newest teams each paid a record $250 million franchise fee for expansion.

The Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo — the two new official franchises in the WNBA — are scheduled to make their season debut in May.

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