Curious about WNBA expansion cities 2025? Discover the 7 most likely cities to land a franchise and how it could reshape the league.
WNBA Expansion Cities 2025 is a hot topic that’s catching fire among fans, analysts, and league insiders. With the league experiencing record-breaking viewership, rising ticket sales, and mainstream cultural relevance, expansion is no longer a question of if, but where.
In this deep dive, we’re breaking down 7 cities that could be next in line to land a WNBA franchise. These locations are buzzing with potential, rich basketball culture, and the market demand to support a team.
Let’s explore the most promising WNBA expansion cities for 2025.
🏀 Why WNBA Expansion in 2025 Makes Sense
Before we dive into the cities, here’s why WNBA expansion cities 2025 is such a timely conversation:
- Record attendance and TV viewership in 2024
- Growing popularity of players like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Aliyah Boston
- Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has confirmed expansion is on the radar
- The league has only 12 teams, compared to 30 in the NBA
The demand is clearly there—so where should the WNBA go next?
📍 Top 7 WNBA Expansion Cities 2025
1. Toronto, Canada 🇨🇦
Toronto is the front-runner. It hosted a sold-out WNBA preseason game in 2023 and was praised for its enthusiastic fan base.
Why It Makes Sense:
- International market with proven NBA success
- Deep basketball culture
- Major corporate sponsors and media support
🗣️ Fun Fact: Drake even showed interest in bringing a team to Toronto.
2. Oakland, California 🌉
Oakland is basketball royalty. With the Warriors now across the Bay in San Francisco, Oakland fans are hungry for a new team to call their own.
Key Highlights:
- Rich sports history
- Passionate grassroots basketball scene
- Potential to revive Oracle Arena
It’s also the hometown of legends like Gary Payton and Bill Russell—plenty of hoops heritage here.
3. Nashville, Tennessee 🎸
Nashville may be known for country music, but don’t sleep on its hoops potential. The city has exploded in population and cultural influence.
Why Nashville Deserves It:
- Untapped WNBA market in the Southeast
- Huge college basketball scene (Vanderbilt, Tennessee)
- Growing corporate investment and infrastructure
It’s flashy, fast-growing, and ready for a professional women’s team.
4. Portland, Oregon 🌲
Portland once had a WNBA team (Portland Fire), but lost it in 2002. Now with a resurgent sports culture, it’s a prime candidate for a comeback.
Why Now Is the Right Time:
- Strong Blazers fan base
- Supportive city for progressive sports initiatives
- Arena infrastructure in place
Second chances don’t always come, but Portland is pushing hard to get back in the league.
5. Charlotte, North Carolina 🏀
Charlotte is a basketball town through and through. With strong support for the Hornets and a rich college hoops tradition, the city is buzzing.
Expansion Potential:
- Ideal regional rival for Atlanta Dream
- Home of legends like Michael Jordan
- Strong sports media coverage
Could the Queen City get its Queen’s team?
6. Denver, Colorado ⛰️
Denver has climbed the sports ranks fast, with titles in the NBA and NHL. It’s a growing, youthful city that loves basketball.
Why It’s a Smart Bet:
- Major market with limited team overlap
- High attendance at women’s college games
- New arena projects and local investment
The altitude wouldn’t be the only thing rising—fan excitement would too.
7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 🏙️
Philadelphia is one of the biggest U.S. cities without a WNBA team. And for a city that lives and breathes sports, this seems like a huge oversight.
Reasons It’s a Top Choice:
- Massive sports media market
- Fierce fan loyalty
- Historic basketball schools (Temple, Villanova, Penn)
Philly fans are tough—but they show up. Just imagine a packed Wells Fargo Center for a WNBA playoff game.
🔍 What Criteria Does the WNBA Look For in Expansion Cities?
The WNBA evaluates several factors before greenlighting expansion, including:
- Market size and fan base potential
- Arena availability and infrastructure
- Ownership group and financial backing
- Basketball culture and community support
Cities that check all these boxes (like Toronto and Oakland) are near the top of the list.
🌎 Could International Expansion Happen in 2025?
While WNBA expansion cities 2025 are mostly U.S.-based, there’s growing momentum for international markets like:
- Toronto (most likely)
- Mexico City (NBA has tested here)
- London (huge potential, but a stretch logistically)
International teams would broaden the league’s reach, attract global fans, and boost brand equity.
💬 What Players Are Saying About Expansion
Many current players have publicly advocated for expansion, citing the league’s depth of talent and limited roster spots.
🗣️ Breanna Stewart said:
“There’s too much talent in this league to only have 12 teams.”
With more teams, more players can shine—and more cities can connect with the sport.
📢 Don’t Miss the Latest on WNBA Expansion
To keep up with league announcements, team rumors, and relocation talk:
👉 Also Read: Latest Trending News
🌐 Visit WNBA.com for official updates
🏁 Conclusion
The conversation around WNBA expansion cities 2025 is heating up—and for good reason. Cities like Toronto, Oakland, and Nashville are top contenders, each offering a unique blend of passion, infrastructure, and growth potential.
With the league thriving and fan interest at an all-time high, now’s the perfect time for the WNBA to grow. Whether you’re in Philly, Portland, or beyond, your city could be next.
Stay tuned—expansion is coming.
❓FAQs: WNBA Expansion Cities 2025
1. Is the WNBA expanding in 2025?
The WNBA hasn’t confirmed a specific date, but league officials have stated expansion is a top priority, likely coming soon.
2. Which city is most likely to get a team next?
Toronto is widely considered the leading candidate due to its successful WNBA game in 2023 and strong market.
3. How many teams will be added?
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has hinted at adding 1–2 teams initially, with more later.
4. What happened to previous WNBA expansion teams?
Several teams folded due to financial instability, but the league is now in a much stronger place for sustained expansion.
5. Where can I get updates on expansion announcements?
Follow the official WNBA website or Latest Trending News for real-time updates.
