The WNBA expansion in 2026 is officially happening. Find out the new cities, what fans think, and how this changes women’s basketball forever.
The long-awaited WNBA expansion 2026 is finally official — and fans couldn’t be more excited. After years of speculation, league commissioner Cathy Engelbert confirmed that two new teams will join the league in 2026, marking one of the biggest moves in WNBA news since its inception in 1997.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to women’s basketball in 2025, this expansion is a game-changer. Let’s break down where the new teams are landing, why now is the perfect time, and what this means for stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and future WNBA rookies.
The 2026 WNBA Expansion: What’s Confirmed?
Here’s what we know so far:
- Two new teams will join the league in 2026.
- One of the teams is confirmed to be based in the Bay Area (San Francisco).
- The second location is widely rumored to be Toronto, marking the league’s first international team.
- Expansion rosters will be filled through an expansion draft after the 2025 season.
This is huge for a league that hasn’t added a new team since the Atlanta Dream in 2008.
Why Now? What’s Fueling the WNBA Expansion
So, why is the WNBA expanding in 2026? Simple: momentum.
- Viewership is at an all-time high. The 2025 season opener featuring Caitlin Clark had over 3.2 million viewers, breaking WNBA records.
- Endorsements are flooding in, with players like Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson, and Cameron Brink signing multi-million-dollar deals.
- Social media buzz continues to boost player profiles and highlight league moments across TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter/X.
- Merchandise sales—especially rookie jerseys—have seen a 250% increase year-over-year.
The league is growing fast, and expansion is the natural next step.
Potential Impact on Players and Rosters
With two new franchises entering the league, WNBA teams will participate in an expansion draft, likely similar to the 2008 process.
That means:
- Each current team can protect a limited number of players.
- Unprotected players can be selected by the expansion franchises.
- Some fan-favorite veterans and developing talents could be on the move.
This will shake up team chemistry, but also give more deserving players a shot at significant minutes — a huge step in solving the WNBA roster crunch.
Where Are the New WNBA Teams in 2026?
Bay Area (San Francisco):
- Backed by the Golden State Warriors, this team will play at Chase Center.
- Expected to be a hot spot for top-tier talent and high-budget operations.
- Silicon Valley sponsorship opportunities are already lining up.
Toronto (Rumored):
- The WNBA held a record-setting preseason game in Toronto last year, drawing over 19,000 fans.
- Canada’s massive support for women’s basketball makes it a natural fit.
- International appeal could help the WNBA reach a global audience.
“Adding new cities means new fans, more jobs, and greater visibility for the game,” said Cathy Engelbert. “It’s an exciting time for women’s sports.”
How Fans Are Reacting
The WNBA fanbase is buzzing with excitement, especially on social media.
- TikTok reactions to the expansion news have generated over 30M views in a week.
- Fans are already pitching team names like “Golden Bay Queens” and “Toronto Towers.”
- Reddit threads are full of mock expansion drafts and trade ideas.
It’s not just about new teams — it’s about new energy.
The Business Behind the Expansion
According to Forbes, the WNBA’s valuation has climbed significantly over the past two years. With more advertisers (like Google, Nike, and AT&T) jumping in and games streaming on Amazon Prime, the business case for expansion is stronger than ever.
Here’s what’s changing:
- Increased media rights deals
- Higher player salaries in 2025 and beyond
- More youth pipeline programs and international scouting
- Cities lining up for future expansion bids
WNBA Expansion Timeline: What to Expect
| Year | Key Events |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Official announcement, branding reveals |
| Late 2025 | Expansion Draft (post-WNBA Finals) |
| Early 2026 | Free agency & preseason for new teams |
| May 2026 | First official games for new franchises |
Players to Watch in the Expansion Era
2026 will bring new opportunities for both rookies and vets. Keep an eye on:
- Hailey Van Lith – Likely to go top 3 in the 2026 WNBA Draft.
- JuJu Watkins – A projected generational talent from USC.
- Destanni Henderson – A potential breakout on a new team.
Plus, undervalued bench players on current teams may finally get their chance to shine.
What Expansion Means for the League’s Future
Let’s zoom out for a second — this isn’t just about adding teams. It’s about pushing the sport forward.
- Bigger TV deals mean better player exposure and higher salaries.
- Expanded playoff formats are on the table.
- International growth is inevitable, especially with Toronto potentially joining.
The WNBA is finally leaning into its momentum — and fans are here for it.
Final Thoughts: The WNBA’s Brightest Era Yet
The WNBA expansion 2026 isn’t just exciting — it’s necessary. With sky-high talent coming out of college, a surge in fan interest, and growing media coverage, there’s never been a better time to grow the game.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just hopping on the hype train, this expansion is your chance to be part of something historic. New teams. New rivalries. New legacies.
So what do you think? Should more cities get WNBA teams next? Drop your thoughts below, share this article, and let’s grow the game together.
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FAQs
1. What cities are getting WNBA teams in 2026?
The Bay Area is confirmed, and Toronto is heavily rumored as the second city.
2. How will the WNBA expansion draft work?
Each existing team will protect a few players, and the rest are eligible to be selected by the new franchises.
3. Why is the WNBA expanding now?
High viewership, increased sponsorships, and player demand are fueling the league’s growth.
4. Will there be more expansion after 2026?
Yes. League officials have hinted that more cities are being considered for 2028 or 2030.
5. How can I support the new WNBA teams?
Follow their social media, buy team merch when it drops, and tune in to games when the 2026 season begins.
