Curious about WNBA expansion teams 2025? Discover the top 5 U.S. cities that could land the next franchise and why the league is ready to grow.
The conversation around WNBA expansion teams 2025 is heating up — and for good reason. As viewership skyrockets, ticket sales soar, and social media buzz grows, fans across the country are asking the same question: When will the WNBA expand, and which cities will be next?
While the WNBA currently features 12 strong teams, it’s clear the league has outgrown its current footprint. Demand for women’s basketball is higher than ever, and 2025 might be the year we finally see new WNBA expansion teams announced.
Let’s take a look at the five U.S. cities most deserving of a WNBA franchise right now.
Why WNBA Expansion in 2025 Makes Sense
The league’s momentum is undeniable. The 2024 season brought in record-breaking attendance and national TV numbers — driven by rookie stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Add in growing youth participation and a massive jump in merchandise sales, and you’ve got the perfect storm for league growth.
📈 According to WNBA.com, 2024 saw the highest viewership in league history.
League Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has already confirmed expansion is on the horizon. The WNBA needs more teams — and soon.
1. Philadelphia, PA – The Sports Powerhouse Without a WNBA Team
It’s honestly shocking that a city as sports-obsessed as Philly doesn’t have a WNBA franchise yet. With die-hard fanbases for the Eagles, Sixers, Phillies, and Flyers, the city is more than ready to support women’s professional basketball.
Why Philly Makes Sense:
- Massive media market (#4 in U.S.)
- Rich college basketball history (Villanova, Temple, etc.)
- Proven support for women’s sports (WNIT, NCAA events)
A team here could instantly create rivalries with the New York Liberty and Washington Mystics.
2. Portland, OR – A Fan Base That’s Been Waiting
Portland had a WNBA team — the Fire — from 2000 to 2002. Despite decent fan support, the team folded due to ownership and arena issues. But in 2025, Portland is ready for a comeback.
Why Portland Works:
- Passionate Trail Blazers fans prove the city loves hoops
- Great arena infrastructure with Moda Center
- A growing women’s basketball following thanks to Oregon Ducks and Sabrina Ionescu’s college legacy
This would fill a major gap in the Pacific Northwest and create exciting regional matchups with Seattle.
3. Nashville, TN – The Next Southern Hotspot
Nashville is booming. From its explosive population growth to its rising sports scene (Titans, Predators, Nashville SC), this city is on everyone’s radar — including the WNBA’s.
Why Nashville Fits:
- Underserved Southern market for pro women’s hoops
- Strong NCAA support for women’s basketball (Tennessee, Vanderbilt)
- Strong corporate sponsorship potential
Music City is ready to make noise in the WNBA.
4. Toronto, Canada – Going International (Finally)
The WNBA has already tested the waters in Canada — and fans showed up in droves. The preseason game in Toronto in 2023 sold out, and viewership across Canada has grown year over year.
Why Toronto Is a No-Brainer:
- Global market expansion potential
- Natural rival for U.S.-based teams
- Raptors’ success proves NBA-style fandom thrives there
An international WNBA team in 2025? It’s more likely than you think.
5. Oakland, CA – Basketball Roots Run Deep
After the Warriors moved to San Francisco, Oakland has been hungry for its own team again. With deep community roots, strong women’s basketball culture, and a passionate fan base, Oakland is an ideal landing spot.
Oakland’s Advantages:
- Proven basketball market
- Strong local support for women’s college and high school programs
- Arena options like Oakland Arena already in place
This move would revive a proud hoops city and add another strong franchise to the West.
The Ideal Number of WNBA Expansion Teams in 2025
Most experts agree that two WNBA expansion teams in 2025 would be ideal. It keeps the talent pool deep, avoids schedule disruption, and allows for steady growth. However, demand suggests we could see even more cities enter the discussion for 2026 and beyond.
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What Challenges Come with WNBA Expansion?
While expansion is exciting, it’s not simple. The WNBA must consider:
- Market size and financial stability
- Arena availability
- Ownership groups with strong backing
- Competitive balance (spreading talent)
Still, the upside far outweighs the risk. Fans want more teams. Cities are lobbying for them. The time is now.
What Would Expansion Mean for the WNBA’s Future?
Adding new teams in 2025 would:
- Create more jobs for players, coaches, and staff
- Spark new rivalries and increase competition
- Tap into new fan markets and TV deals
- Grow youth interest in women’s sports
Plus, it gives college stars entering the league more opportunities to shine. Right now, talented players are being cut due to lack of roster space. Expansion changes that overnight.
Final Thoughts on WNBA Expansion Teams 2025
The WNBA is no longer just surviving — it’s thriving. And the next logical step is expansion. Whether it’s Philadelphia, Portland, Nashville, Toronto, or Oakland, the league needs new homes for the next generation of stars.
WNBA expansion teams 2025 are more than just a possibility — they’re a necessity. The game is growing. The fans are ready. And the league’s brightest days are still ahead.
👀 Stay updated on league announcements and team news at WNBA.com
FAQs About WNBA Expansion Teams 2025
Q1: When will the WNBA officially announce new expansion teams?
Cathy Engelbert has hinted at announcements coming by late 2025 or early 2026.
Q2: How many teams will the WNBA expand to in 2025?
Most likely 2 teams, with more potentially in future seasons.
Q3: Why hasn’t the WNBA expanded yet?
The league wanted to ensure financial and talent stability first — now it’s finally the right time.
Q4: Will expansion dilute the talent pool?
No — there’s more than enough elite talent entering the league from college every year.
Q5: Which cities are favorites for WNBA expansion?
Philadelphia, Portland, Toronto, Oakland, and Nashville are among the top contenders.
