WNBA expansion cities 2025 rumors are heating up. Which U.S. markets are frontrunners for a new team? Here’s everything you need to know.
The buzz around WNBA expansion cities 2025 is louder than ever. With record-breaking attendance, skyrocketing TV ratings, and rookie sensations like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese grabbing headlines, the demand for more teams is real—and growing fast. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has hinted at expansion being “imminent,” and fans across the country are wondering: Which city is next to join the W?
Let’s dive into the most talked-about cities, what expansion would mean for the league, and how it could reshape women’s basketball in 2025 and beyond.
Why Now? The Perfect Time for WNBA Expansion
2025 is shaping up to be the most successful season in WNBA history.
Key Growth Metrics:
- Viewership up 28% year-over-year (per Sports Media Watch)
- Sellout crowds in multiple markets (especially Indiana and Chicago)
- Player endorsements exploding, with Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and JuJu Watkins leading the way
- Record-breaking jersey sales, with Clark and Reese at the top
With only 12 current teams, the league is overdue for growth. More teams = more talent, more jobs, more fans.
Top WNBA Expansion Cities 2025 (Ranked)
1. Philadelphia, PA
- Massive basketball culture (Sixers, Villanova, Big 5)
- No current WNBA team
- Major TV market with untapped women’s sports potential
- Home to top college talent and thriving youth hoops scene
2. Toronto, Canada
- First international expansion target
- Sold-out WNBA preseason game in 2023 showed huge interest
- Global media opportunity for the league
- Already part of NBA and G-League ecosystems
3. Portland, OR
- Former home of the Portland Fire (2000–2002)
- Strong sports fandom with NBA and NWSL success
- Arena and ownership interest already in place
- Geographically balances West Coast presence
4. Nashville, TN
- Southern market ripe for women’s basketball
- Proximity to SEC powerhouse programs (Tennessee, South Carolina)
- Music City branding = strong marketing potential
- Fastest-growing U.S. cities for young adults
5. Charlotte, NC
- Basketball-rich state
- Past home of the Charlotte Sting (1997–2006)
- Revitalized downtown and sports investment
- Potential to reignite regional rivalries with Atlanta and DC
Expansion Would Help Solve Competitive Imbalance
Currently, with just 12 teams, roster spots are incredibly limited—leading to WNBA veterans being waived despite still having game. Expansion would:
- Open 24–30 new roster spots
- Provide more development opportunities
- Allow more international and college talent to shine
- Create a better balance across conferences
What WNBA Players Are Saying
Caitlin Clark recently spoke on The Today Show, saying:
“The league is growing fast, and I’d love to see more teams. There are so many talented players who deserve a shot.”
Breanna Stewart also weighed in on Boardroom, adding:
“We’ve been asking for expansion for years. We’ve outgrown the 12-team system.”
Fan Reactions on Social Media
The WNBA community is loud and passionate about expansion. On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #WNBAtoPhilly and #WNBAtoToronto have trended multiple times in 2025.
Some notable fan tweets:
“Give us a team in Toronto already. The city is ready.”
“Charlotte deserves a second chance. The Sting walked so the W could run.”
“There’s more than enough talent for 14 or even 16 teams.”
Could Expansion Boost TV Ratings Further?
Absolutely. More teams mean:
- More regional broadcasts
- More local storylines
- Higher engagement from underserved markets
Games featuring new teams could see first-season hype spikes, similar to the Las Vegas Aces’ rebrand success in 2018. Plus, the league can negotiate bigger deals in the next media rights cycle.
Challenges to Consider Before Expansion
Of course, expansion isn’t without its hurdles.
Key Concerns:
- Talent dilution (short-term concern)
- Ownership commitments and financial backing
- Arena availability and market stability
That said, Commissioner Engelbert has made clear that the league is taking a measured, strategic approach to expansion—looking at data, fan interest, and long-term growth.
Timeline: When Will New Teams Be Announced?
Here’s what we know so far:
- Fall 2025: League expected to announce 2 new franchises
- 2026–2027 seasons: Target dates for the teams to begin play
- Draft and expansion rules to be revealed mid-2026
The wait is nearly over.
What WNBA Expansion Means for Women’s Basketball 2025
Adding new teams isn’t just about markets—it’s about opportunity.
- More roster spots for talented college grads
- Bigger platform for rising stars
- New rivalries and fan bases
- A stronger, deeper league overall
For fans, it means more games, more drama, and more ways to get involved in the W community.
Final Thoughts: Expansion Is No Longer a Question—It’s a Necessity
The WNBA expansion cities 2025 movement has been building for years—and the league is finally listening. With cities like Philly, Toronto, and Portland leading the charge, women’s basketball is on the verge of its next great leap. Whether you’re a day-one fan or new to the W, this moment is worth celebrating.
🏀 Sound Off in the Comments!
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FAQs
1. How many teams does the WNBA have in 2025?
There are currently 12 teams, but two more are expected to be added in the next expansion round.
2. What is the most likely city for WNBA expansion?
Philadelphia, Toronto, and Portland are considered frontrunners based on fan demand and market readiness.
3. When will the WNBA officially announce expansion cities?
League officials have suggested a Fall 2025 announcement with expansion teams beginning play in 2026 or 2027.
4. Will expansion hurt the level of competition?
Initially, there may be minor talent dilution, but the growing pipeline of college and international talent will quickly balance it.
5. Why is expansion important for the WNBA?
It provides more opportunities for players, boosts local fan engagement, increases revenue, and fuels long-term growth.
