WNBA expansion 2025 is heating up. Discover which cities could land the next team and what it means for women’s basketball fans across the U.S.
The buzz around WNBA expansion in 2025 is real — and growing by the day. With viewership at an all-time high, fan engagement surging, and stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese dominating headlines, the league is primed for growth. But the big question remains: Which city will score the next WNBA franchise?
In this deep dive, we’ll explore the hottest candidate cities, why expansion makes sense right now, and how it could reshape the future of women’s basketball 2025. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the game, this is one WNBA storyline you’ll want to follow.
Why WNBA Expansion in 2025 Makes Perfect Sense
Here’s why the timing couldn’t be better for the WNBA to grow:
- TV ratings are up 41% from 2024, with record-breaking games led by rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Sponsorship and endorsement revenue is projected to surpass $90M this season.
- Merchandise sales are up nearly 70% YoY, with Clark’s and Reese’s jerseys topping charts.
Plus, every home game for teams like the Las Vegas Aces, Chicago Sky, and New York Liberty has sold out this summer — a clear sign the demand is there.
Top Cities in the Running for WNBA Expansion
Here are the cities currently leading the expansion race, based on market size, local support, and media coverage:
1. Philadelphia, PA
- A proven basketball market.
- Strong college women’s basketball presence (Villanova, Temple).
- Home to a passionate sports fanbase eager for a pro women’s team.
2. Toronto, Canada
- The league tested the waters with a preseason game here in 2023 — and the crowd was electric.
- Offers international growth potential.
- Backed by major corporate sponsorship interest.
3. Nashville, TN
- Quickly becoming a sports hotspot.
- Potential for regional rivalries with Atlanta Dream and Dallas Wings.
- Country music stars have even voiced support for a team.
4. Portland, OR
- Former WNBA home (Portland Fire).
- Deep-rooted basketball culture thanks to the Trail Blazers and strong women’s college hoops programs.
- Fans still show up for women’s sports, as seen with the Portland Thorns (NWSL).
5. Oakland, CA
- Home to the Golden State Warriors’ new WNBA bid.
- Steph Curry has been vocal in support of women’s basketball.
- Could tap into the massive Bay Area media market.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert Confirms Plans
In a recent press conference, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert confirmed that the league is actively vetting cities and expects “at least one new franchise to be announced by the end of 2025.”
“We’re not just looking to add teams — we’re looking to add the right teams,” Engelbert stated.
That’s a major step forward in growing the league sustainably and globally.
What Expansion Could Mean for Players and Fans
More teams = more roster spots. That’s huge for rising college stars who often get cut due to the WNBA’s current size (only 12 teams, 12 roster spots each).
More local teams = more fans in the stands. Expansion creates regional loyalty and boosts WNBA viewership across the map.
More media markets = better brand deals. Think local TV rights, endorsements, and hometown heroes.
Rookie Class of 2025 Is Fueling the Demand
The influx of talent in 2024 and 2025 — from Caitlin Clark to Angel Reese and now rising names like Paige Bueckers and Hailey Van Lith — means the league is bursting with star power. But many talented rookies can’t even make rosters.
“Expansion is necessary. We need more teams to keep this talent in the league,” said ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo.
Fan Reactions: Social Media Is All In
Scroll through X (formerly Twitter) or TikTok, and you’ll see fans campaigning for expansion in their cities.
Sample reactions:
- “Give Philly a WNBA team already! The energy would be next-level!”
- “Imagine Paige Bueckers leading a Toronto expansion squad 🔥”
- “Oakland needs a W team. Period. Bay Area deserves it.”
Social media buzz isn’t just hype — it’s free marketing the league is smart to capitalize on.
Comparison Table: Potential Expansion Cities
| City | Market Size | NBA/Pro Team Tie-In | Fan Demand | Previous WNBA Presence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | Large | 76ers | High | No |
| Toronto | Very Large | Raptors | Very High | No |
| Nashville | Medium | No NBA | Moderate | No |
| Portland | Medium | Trail Blazers | High | Yes |
| Oakland | Large | Warriors | Very High | No |
Challenges Ahead for WNBA Expansion
Of course, expansion isn’t all smooth sailing. The league must consider:
- Arena availability
- Travel logistics (especially with a Canadian team)
- Ownership vetting and funding
- Maintaining competitive balance
Still, these are good problems to have — they mean the WNBA is thriving.
What’s Next: Key Dates to Watch
- October 2025 – Expected announcement window for first expansion team
- May 2026 – Potential debut season for the new franchise(s)
- 2025 Draft – Could be the deepest class yet, perfect for building a new squad
If everything goes to plan, we could see a 13- or 14-team league in just over a year.
Why WNBA Expansion in 2025 Is a Game-Changer
This isn’t just about adding a team or two — it’s about securing the WNBA’s future.
Expansion means:
- More players on the court
- More cities engaged
- More sponsorships and eyeballs
- And ultimately, more respect for women’s basketball
The league has momentum. Now it’s about using it wisely.
Call to Action
Which city do you think deserves the next WNBA team? Philly? Toronto? Somewhere else? Drop your pick in the comments, share this post with fellow fans, and subscribe for more in-depth WNBA coverage every week!
Also Read: Latest Trending News
External Source: WNBA Official Site
FAQs
1. When will the WNBA expansion be officially announced?
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert says the first announcement could come by late 2025.
2. Which cities are front-runners for WNBA expansion?
Philadelphia, Toronto, Portland, Oakland, and Nashville are among the top contenders.
3. Why does the WNBA need expansion?
There’s too much talent and not enough roster space. Expansion provides opportunities for new players and markets.
4. How many teams will be added?
At least one team is expected, but two could be announced depending on logistics and funding.
5. Will expansion affect the WNBA schedule?
Yes, more teams will likely lead to a longer or more balanced regular season starting as early as 2026.
