WNBA expansion teams 2025 are generating buzz. See which cities might land a new franchise, and how expansion could reshape the future of women’s basketball.
The buzz around WNBA expansion teams 2025 is real—and it’s only getting louder. With record-breaking viewership, booming endorsements, and a new wave of superstar talent like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, the league is primed to grow. And fans across the country are asking the same question: Which city will get the next WNBA team?
As commissioner Cathy Engelbert hinted during All-Star Weekend 2025, expansion is not just possible—it’s on the horizon. So let’s explore the top potential markets, what it means for the league, and how this move could forever change the landscape of women’s basketball 2025.
Why the WNBA Is Ready to Expand
The WNBA hasn’t added a new franchise since the Atlanta Dream joined in 2008. But now? The conditions for growth couldn’t be better.
Here’s why expansion makes sense right now:
- TV ratings are up 42% year-over-year
- Rookie stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Kamilla Cardoso have supercharged fan interest
- Games are selling out in multiple cities
- Many talented players are cut each year due to limited roster spots
- Corporate endorsements are at an all-time high
Simply put, demand has outgrown supply—and fans are ready for more.
Top Contenders for WNBA Expansion in 2025
Let’s break down the cities most likely to land a new WNBA team in the near future.
Philadelphia, PA
- Strong college basketball culture (Villanova, Temple, St. Joe’s)
- 4th largest media market in the U.S.
- Natural rivalries with NYC and DC teams
- Fan support already evident from sellout exhibitions and NCAA crowds
“Philly is a basketball city through and through. The WNBA would thrive here.” – Local sports radio host on 97.5 The Fanatic
Toronto, Canada
- Hosted a sold-out WNBA preseason game in 2023
- Expanding into Canada would open an international market
- Big-time corporate sponsors (like Bell and Nike Canada) already showing interest
- Growing fan base due to Canadian WNBA players like Bridget Carleton and Laeticia Amihere
Bonus: Toronto would be the first non-U.S. WNBA team, mirroring the NBA’s Raptors.
Nashville, TN
- Passionate women’s sports following (Tennessee Lady Vols legacy)
- Bridgestone Arena ready to host
- No current NBA team = WNBA could own the spotlight
- Strong grassroots support through youth basketball and college programs
Bay Area (Oakland/San Francisco, CA)
- Steph Curry and Alana Beard are backing an Oakland WNBA ownership group
- Deep basketball roots with Golden State Warriors fan base
- The Warriors’ Chase Center could be a ready-made venue
- Strong diversity and progressive fan base ready to embrace women’s sports
Houston, TX
- Former home of the 4-time WNBA champion Houston Comets
- Large population and basketball heritage
- Recent push by local investors to bring back the Comets name
- Big potential for regional rivalries (Dallas Wings, Las Vegas Aces)
WNBA Expansion Candidates at a Glance
| City | Pros | Potential Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | Large market, college basketball hotbed | Competes with other pro teams |
| Toronto | International appeal, proven fanbase | Travel and border logistics |
| Nashville | No NBA competition, strong women’s sports culture | Smaller TV market |
| Bay Area | Star-studded ownership group, modern venues | Market already has NBA team |
| Houston | Legacy team, hungry fanbase | Need to rebuild infrastructure |
Player Support for Expansion
Stars across the league are publicly backing expansion, especially as more rookies face early cuts due to limited roster space.
“There are too many talented players not in the league right now. We need more teams.” – Breanna Stewart
“I want to play in front of a sold-out crowd in Philly one day.” – Caitlin Clark, postgame interview (July 2025)
What Fans Are Saying
The conversation online is 🔥 with city hashtags and jersey mock-ups flooding social platforms.
- #WNBAtoPhilly was trending during the 2025 All-Star Weekend
- TikTok creators are designing Toronto expansion uniforms
- Reddit threads have fans planning potential expansion drafts
The hunger for new teams is everywhere—and the league is listening.
How WNBA Expansion Would Work
If expansion happens soon (as expected), here’s how it could roll out:
- Announcement in late 2025
- Teams would begin play by 2026 or 2027
- WNBA likely adds 2 new franchises at once
- An expansion draft would allow new teams to build competitive rosters
- League could move to 10+ playoff teams to reflect growth
This approach mirrors how the NHL and MLS have successfully expanded their leagues.
The Business Side: Endorsements and Revenue
More teams = more markets = more endorsement dollars. Brands want in, especially with players like:
- Caitlin Clark (Nike, Gatorade)
- Angel Reese (Reebok, Amazon)
- A’ja Wilson (Puma, Gatorade)
- Kamilla Cardoso (Nike Brazil)
New franchises bring new local sponsors, new viewers, and bigger national reach.
Final Thoughts: Expansion Is Inevitable
The WNBA expansion teams 2025 discussion is no longer a “what if”—it’s a “when and where.” With a generation of new stars, rising media coverage, and surging fan interest, the timing couldn’t be better.
Whether it’s Philly, Toronto, or Houston, these cities are ready. And so is the league.
What Do You Think?
📍 What city needs a WNBA team next?
💬 Drop your pick in the comments!
🔁 Share this post with fellow fans and subscribe for weekly WNBA updates, player profiles, and expansion news.
Also Read: Latest Trending News
External Resources:
FAQs
1. Is the WNBA expanding in 2025?
While nothing is confirmed, the league has strongly hinted at announcing 2 new franchises by the end of 2025.
2. Which cities are most likely to get WNBA teams?
Philadelphia, Toronto, Nashville, the Bay Area, and Houston are top contenders.
3. How many teams are currently in the WNBA?
There are currently 12 teams in the league.
4. What is an expansion draft?
An expansion draft allows new teams to select players from existing teams, with some players protected by their current franchises.
5. Will expansion help players?
Absolutely. It creates more roster spots and reduces early cuts of talented rookies due to limited space.
