
WNBA expansion in 2025 is gaining momentum. Here’s everything you need to know about possible new teams, cities, and what it means for the league.
Talks about WNBA expansion in 2025 are heating up—and fans are paying attention. As viewership surges, new stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Kamilla Cardoso take over headlines, and TV deals grow stronger, the league is facing one big question: Is now the time to add more teams?
The buzz is real. Rumors are swirling. Cities are pitching. And the WNBA’s future could look a lot different in just a few seasons.
Let’s break down where expansion stands, what’s driving it, and which cities could be getting their own WNBA team soon.
Why WNBA Expansion in 2025 Is More Likely Than Ever
The league has never had more momentum. In the first half of the 2025 season:
- TV ratings are up 127% compared to 2024.
- Caitlin Clark’s debut game pulled 2.13 million viewers on ABC.
- Merchandise sales and arena attendance are breaking records.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert confirmed in a recent interview with Forbes that the league is actively exploring adding two new franchises by 2026.
So while it might not happen during 2025, the announcements could come this year.
Factors Driving WNBA Expansion Interest
Several major factors are pushing the league to grow:
- Increased fan demand – Sold-out arenas in cities like Las Vegas, New York, and Indiana show the league has outgrown its current size.
- A talent boom – Rookies like Clark, Reese, and Cardoso have brought a new level of excitement and competition.
- Global appeal – Players from Brazil, Australia, and Europe are attracting international viewership.
Expansion now isn’t just logical—it’s necessary to sustain the momentum.
Which Cities Are in the Running for WNBA Expansion?
Let’s take a closer look at cities being considered for WNBA teams.
City | Why It’s a Fit | Status |
---|---|---|
Bay Area (San Francisco) | Huge basketball culture, strong economy, Warriors backing | Front-runner |
Toronto | Massive market, global city, proven with Raptors fans | High interest |
Philadelphia | Rich sports culture, large untapped women’s fan base | In discussions |
Nashville | Popular with NCAA women’s hoops, SEC fanbase | Longshot |
Denver | Strong WNBA social support, history with women’s sports | Possible candidate |
According to ESPN, San Francisco and Toronto are the top candidates for 2026 entry, with possible announcements in late 2025.
What Expansion Means for Current WNBA Teams
Adding new teams could shake up:
- The playoff structure
- The WNBA Draft (an expansion draft is likely)
- Roster spots—more jobs for incoming college stars
- TV and streaming deals—wider coverage in North America
It also gives current stars a chance to expand their personal brands into new, untapped markets.
WNBA Players on Expansion: “It’s About Time”
Players are very vocal about the need to grow the league.
A’ja Wilson recently told Bleacher Report:
“There’s too much talent for just 12 teams. Expansion needs to happen, like, yesterday.”
Caitlin Clark echoed the sentiment in a recent interview:
“It would be amazing to see more teams in the league. There are so many players who deserve to be here.”
The Talent Pool Is Overflowing
Every WNBA offseason, fans complain about how stacked rosters lead to good players getting cut before the season starts. In 2025 alone:
- Several 2nd and 3rd round picks from the draft didn’t make final rosters.
- International stars with elite resumes couldn’t find a spot.
- Former All-Americans were left unsigned.
Expansion solves this problem and gives the league breathing room to develop talent.
How Expansion Could Impact Viewership and Sponsorships
More teams = more games = more fans.
Here’s how expansion could grow the league’s footprint:
- Increased local TV deals in new markets
- More regional rivalries (imagine San Francisco vs. LA or Philly vs. NYC)
- Greater merchandise revenue with new team gear
- More sponsorship opportunities for players in new cities
Brands like Nike, AT&T, and Google, who already invest in the WNBA, are reportedly pushing for more regional visibility.
Social Media Reaction: Fans Are Ready
Social media is lighting up with expansion talk. Some recent posts on X (formerly Twitter):
“The Bay Area is BEGGING for a WNBA team. Take our money!” – @BayHoopsGirl
“Please give Philly a team. The women’s game deserves to be seen here too.” – @76erSister
“Can we get 4 new teams instead of 2? The league is overdue.” – @WNBA_FanDaily
Hashtags like #WNBAExpansion and #BringItToToronto have been trending during WNBA game nights this summer.
What Needs to Happen First?
Before any teams are added, the WNBA must:
- Finalize ownership groups in approved cities
- Secure arena leases and facilities
- Get approval from the Board of Governors
- Create an expansion draft plan and future schedule
These are in motion, with official expansion expected to be announced before the 2025 WNBA Finals.
Could We See an International WNBA Team?
Toronto is likely to be the first non-U.S. WNBA team, setting the tone for potential future global growth.
- Canadian TV networks are already airing WNBA games weekly.
- The Canadian women’s national team has several WNBA players.
- Fans showed massive support during exhibition games held in Toronto in 2023 and 2024.
This could mark the start of a more international WNBA presence.
Final Thoughts: WNBA Expansion in 2025 Is More Than Hype—It’s a Must
The WNBA has outgrown its current size. With rising stars, surging ratings, and global attention, now is the time to grow.
WNBA expansion in 2025 isn’t just a rumor—it’s becoming a reality. And if the league gets it right, it could unlock a new era of visibility, opportunity, and impact in women’s basketball.
What Do You Think?
Which cities should get a WNBA team next?
Would you support a team in your hometown?
Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this post, and don’t forget to subscribe for weekly WNBA news, analysis, and updates.
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FAQs
1. Is the WNBA expanding in 2025?
The league is expected to announce new teams in late 2025, with expansion teams likely debuting in 2026.
2. Which cities are being considered for WNBA expansion?
Front-runners include San Francisco (Bay Area) and Toronto, with Philadelphia and Denver also in the mix.
3. Why does the WNBA need more teams?
The current 12-team structure can’t accommodate all the talent. More teams mean more opportunities and wider fan reach.
4. Will there be an expansion draft?
Yes, new teams will likely participate in an expansion draft, selecting from unprotected players on current rosters.
5. How will expansion impact current players?
It will increase competition, create more job opportunities, and offer stars a chance to build their brands in new cities.