The WNBA expansion 2025 buzz is real. Find out which cities are top contenders and why this move could reshape women’s basketball.
There’s a fresh wave of excitement building around WNBA expansion in 2025, and for good reason. With viewership at record highs, sold-out arenas, and rookie stars like Caitlin Clark igniting fanbases nationwide, the league is primed for growth. As commissioner Cathy Engelbert hinted in a recent press conference, “Expansion is coming sooner than people think.”
So, what cities are in the running, and how will this impact the future of women’s basketball in the U.S.? Let’s dig into the cities, rumors, and what fans should expect.
The Surge in WNBA Popularity: Why Expansion Now?
The 2025 WNBA season is breaking all kinds of barriers:
- Games featuring Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are averaging over 1.5 million viewers
- Teams like the Indiana Fever and Las Vegas Aces are selling out most home games
- Brands like Nike, Gatorade, and Google are doubling down on WNBA endorsements
In short: the league is hot, and demand outweighs supply. The league currently has just 12 teams, compared to the NBA’s 30. It’s time to change that.
Expansion Confirmed: What We Know So Far
- Commissioner Cathy Engelbert confirmed in July 2025 that 2 new teams will be added by 2026
- The WNBA board has reviewed over 15 markets
- The expansion draft is tentatively scheduled for Spring 2026
That gives us one burning question: Which cities are in the lead?
Top Contenders for WNBA Expansion Teams in 2025
Here are the cities currently generating the most buzz:
1. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Huge college basketball scene (Villanova, Temple)
- 6th largest U.S. TV market
- WNBA exhibitions in Philly have drawn 10,000+ crowds
Fan Reaction: “We NEED a WNBA team in Philly. This city is hungry!” — @sixers_sis on X
2. Portland, Oregon
- Home to passionate Trail Blazers fans
- Already hosted WNBA team (Portland Fire) from 2000–2002
- Nike HQ nearby = potential endorsement powerhouse
3. Toronto, Canada
- International expansion opportunity
- Sold out WNBA Canada Game in 2023 and 2024
- Massive market: over 6 million in metro area
4. Nashville, Tennessee
- No NBA team, creating untapped hoops fandom
- Home to major universities (Vanderbilt, Tennessee)
- Fits the league’s Southern growth strategy
5. Charlotte, North Carolina
- Basketball-rich culture (think UNC and Duke)
- Growing metro area
- WNBA previously operated here as the Charlotte Sting
Recent Trades and Team Moves Fueling Expansion Buzz
The recent blockbuster trade between the Phoenix Mercury and Chicago Sky—which sent Kahleah Copper west—demonstrated just how competitive and fluid rosters have become. Teams are preparing not just for playoff runs, but also the 2026 Expansion Draft, where they may have to expose players to new franchises.
TV Ratings and Revenue Say “Yes” to More Teams
| Year | Avg. Viewership | Sponsorship Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 480,000 | $80 million |
| 2024 | 750,000 | $115 million |
| 2025 | 1.6 million | $160+ million |
This is no longer a niche product. The WNBA is a major media property, and adding teams means adding millions more in revenue from tickets, merchandise, and local sponsors.
Social Media Buzz: Fans Are Loud and Clear
Trending Hashtags in July 2025:
- #WNBAExpansion
- #BringItToPhilly
- #WNBAtoToronto
Caitlin Clark’s recent comments during a podcast—“I’d love to play in Toronto one day”—sent Raptors and WNBA fans into a frenzy.
What an Expansion Means for the League
Adding two new teams will:
- Create 36 new roster spots
- Open doors for G League-level development programs
- Expand WNBA content and local TV rights in new markets
It also means a more robust WNBA offseason, as fans will be glued to mock expansion drafts and rookie speculation.
Who Will Coach the New Franchises?
Rumors are swirling around a few names:
- Becky Hammon possibly jumping ship for a new coaching challenge
- Candace Parker, retired in 2024, may step into a front-office or coaching role
- Dawn Staley, currently at South Carolina, has reportedly been contacted by ownership groups
What About the Players?
With rising stars like:
- Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever)
- Angel Reese (Chicago Sky)
- Aaliyah Boston
- Aliyah Edwards
…the league has the talent pool to support expansion. And with NIL success and NCAA exposure higher than ever, more talent is on the way.
Expansion Draft: What to Expect
While official rules haven’t dropped yet, here’s what history and sources suggest:
- Current teams can protect 5–7 players
- New teams draft from the unprotected pool
- 1 or 2 rounds, likely happening post-WNBA Finals 2026
Possible Expansion Team Names (Fan Predictions)
- Philadelphia Freedom
- Toronto North Stars
- Portland Rain
- Nashville Soul
Fans have already created concept jerseys and logos on Reddit and X. The passion is real.
Where Does Caitlin Clark Fit in This Expansion Story?
Clark’s explosive rookie year has changed everything. She’s drawn millions of new fans, skyrocketed merch sales, and pushed the league to think bigger.
“She’s the Steph Curry of the WNBA,” one broadcaster said during the recent All-Star Game.
“If you build it, and she’s playing in it, they will come.”
What Fans Can Do to Help Expansion Happen
Want to bring a team to your city?
✅ Attend local WNBA exhibitions
✅ Support college women’s basketball
✅ Post and tag the league on social media
✅ Write to local sports investors and media outlets
The league is listening. Loud cities get noticed.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in WNBA History Is Being Written
WNBA expansion in 2025 is more than a headline—it’s a game-changing moment. As the league rides a wave of popularity, now is the perfect time to grow. Whether it’s Toronto, Philadelphia, or a dark horse like Nashville, one thing is clear: the future of women’s basketball has never looked brighter.
Are you ready for more WNBA in your city? Let us know in the comments, share this with your sports group, or subscribe for the latest updates!
FAQs
1. How many teams will be added in the WNBA expansion 2025?
Two teams are expected to join by the 2026 season.
2. What cities are most likely to get a new WNBA team?
Top candidates include Philadelphia, Toronto, Portland, Nashville, and Charlotte.
3. Will Caitlin Clark be affected by expansion?
She’s unlikely to be traded or exposed in the expansion draft, but her popularity is driving league-wide interest.
4. When will the WNBA expansion draft take place?
Tentatively Spring 2026, after the 2025–26 offseason.
5. How can I help bring a WNBA team to my city?
Support local exhibitions, post on social media, and show community interest.
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External Link: WNBA Official Site
