WNBA Officially Expands To Cleveland, Detroit & Philadelphia Through 2030

WNBA Officially Expands To Cleveland, Detroit & Philadelphia Through 2030

The WNBA’s rapid growth just got even bigger.

The league and NBA Board of Governors have now formally approved three new expansion franchises in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia, locking in a major next chapter for women’s basketball. The move was officially confirmed by the WNBA on Friday, marking one of the biggest expansion waves in league history.

Under the approved rollout, Cleveland will tip off in 2028, Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030, bringing the league’s footprint deeper into legacy basketball markets with proven pro sports fan bases.

The additions continue the WNBA’s aggressive momentum following the arrivals of the Golden State Valkyries, Toronto Tempo, and Portland Fire, signaling that demand for women’s basketball franchises is still surging.

Detroit’s return is especially notable given the city’s championship WNBA history, while Philadelphia will finally land its first franchise. Cleveland also marks a return to the league, bringing back WNBA basketball to another familiar market.

By 2030, the WNBA is now set to reach 18 teams, underscoring just how quickly the business of women’s sports continues to expand.