WNBA expansion 2026 is heating up. Find out which cities are top contenders, and how this move could reshape women’s basketball.
The buzz around WNBA expansion 2026 is growing louder—and it’s no longer just wishful thinking. With record-breaking viewership, superstar rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, and massive endorsement momentum, the league is reportedly preparing to add at least two new teams. And if you’re a fan of women’s basketball 2025, this could be the most exciting shift in league history.
So where is the WNBA heading next? Who are the top cities? And what does expansion mean for fans, players, and the league’s future? Let’s dig in.
Why WNBA Expansion Is a Hot Topic in 2025
With the league enjoying unprecedented growth, the timing couldn’t be better for expansion.
Here’s what’s fueling the movement:
- 2025 TV ratings are up 40% compared to 2023, according to Sports Business Journal
- Star power: Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, JuJu Watkins, and Cameron Brink have brought NCAA fans with them
- Ticket sales are up league-wide, and games are selling out in major markets
- High-profile endorsements are flowing in from brands like Nike, Gatorade, and Google
The WNBA has momentum—and now it needs more teams to keep up with fan demand.
Top Cities in the Running for WNBA Expansion 2026
While the WNBA hasn’t made anything official yet, several cities are being floated by insiders and reporters.
1. Philadelphia, PA
- Large sports market with no WNBA team
- Rich basketball culture, strong college programs
- Caitlin Clark’s recent sellout game in Philly generated buzz
2. Nashville, TN
- Booming population and strong women’s sports following
- Tennessee Lady Vols legacy makes it a natural fit
3. Oakland, CA
- Former home of the Warriors, with passionate Bay Area fans
- High WNBA support and grassroots backing
4. Toronto, Canada
- Sold-out WNBA preseason game in 2023
- Would mark the league’s first international expansion
- Strong TV ratings in Canada
5. Portland, OR
- Previously had a WNBA team (Portland Fire)
- High viewership and great basketball infrastructure
Fan Reactions: Social Media Has Spoken
Search #WNBAExpansion on X (Twitter), and you’ll see:
- “Give Philly a team already!”
- “Nashville is ready for pro women’s basketball.”
- “Toronto deserves a squad. They sold out a preseason game in minutes.”
The demand is there. WNBA fans are engaged, loud, and pushing for new teams. Expansion isn’t just good business—it’s a fan-driven movement.
What Expansion Means for WNBA Players
A bigger league means:
- More roster spots (a major issue with the current 12-team format)
- Increased salaries and contract stability
- Greater competition, which improves overall league quality
Angel Reese even said in a recent interview:
“We need more teams—too much talent is getting cut.”
And she’s right. Dozens of skilled players get waived each season simply because there aren’t enough openings.
How Expansion Affects the WNBA Draft and Roster Building
With more teams, expect big changes in how the WNBA Draft operates.
- Likely introduction of an Expansion Draft
- Teams will need to protect a set number of players, allowing new franchises to draft from existing rosters
- The 2026 Draft could be one of the most talent-rich classes yet, with stars like Paige Bueckers and Hailey Van Lith eligible
Expect a flurry of trades and team shakeups as new franchises build their identities.
TV Ratings Prove the Time is Right
Let’s talk numbers:
| Year | Avg. WNBA Game Viewership | Notable Growth |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 379,000 | – |
| 2023 | 462,000 | +22% YoY |
| 2024 | 607,000 | +31% YoY |
| 2025 | 856,000 (projected) | +41% YoY |
(Source: ESPN & Nielsen)
The growth isn’t slowing down—and it’s being driven by a new generation of stars.
Endorsements and Mainstream Attention: WNBA in the Spotlight
From commercials to podcast interviews, WNBA players are becoming household names.
- Caitlin Clark recently appeared in a Gatorade ad alongside Jayson Tatum
- JuJu Watkins partnered with Amazon for a sneaker collab
- The WNBA signed a new $30 million broadcast deal extension with ABC/ESPN for 2025–2029
This mainstream visibility strengthens the case for bigger markets and broader coverage.
Challenges the WNBA Must Address Before Expansion
It’s not all smooth sailing. Expansion needs careful planning:
- Travel logistics, especially with international cities like Toronto
- Ensuring competitive balance between new and veteran teams
- Ownership structure and funding for new franchises
But the pros far outweigh the cons, especially if the league approaches it strategically.
What Could a 14-Team WNBA Look Like?
Imagine a 2026 season with two new franchises—say, Toronto and Philadelphia.
Potential Division Realignment:
| East | West |
|---|---|
| New York Liberty | Las Vegas Aces |
| Washington Mystics | Phoenix Mercury |
| Connecticut Sun | Los Angeles Sparks |
| Atlanta Dream | Seattle Storm |
| Indiana Fever | Dallas Wings |
| Philadelphia (new) | Toronto (new) |
It opens up new rivalries, new fan bases, and more must-watch matchups.
How Fans Can Help Push Expansion Forward
- Use hashtags like #WNBAExpansion
- Attend games and support merchandise
- Subscribe to WNBA League Pass
- Follow and engage with your favorite players on social media
The louder the fanbase, the faster the league moves.
Conclusion: WNBA Expansion in 2026 Is the Future We Need
The league is primed. The fans are ready. The players are pushing. WNBA expansion in 2026 feels not just possible—but inevitable. With cities like Toronto, Philly, and Oakland in the mix, it’s only a matter of time before the W takes the next big leap.
If you’ve ever wanted to get in early on a sports movement—this is it.
FAQs
1. When will the WNBA officially announce expansion?
While no date is confirmed, insiders say an announcement is expected by the end of 2025.
2. How many teams will be added in 2026?
Reports suggest two teams will be added, with potential for more by 2028.
3. What cities are most likely to get WNBA teams next?
Philadelphia, Nashville, Toronto, Oakland, and Portland are top contenders.
4. Why is WNBA expansion important?
It provides more roster spots, expands the fanbase, and grows the game globally.
5. Will expansion change the WNBA playoff format?
It might. With 14 or more teams, the league could introduce play-in tournaments or wildcard spots.
Also Read: Latest Trending News
External Link: Visit the official WNBA website for updates and announcements.
