The WNBA is on the verge of further expansion, with Cleveland poised to secure a franchise. Home to the Cavaliers since 1970, Cleveland is about to welcome another professional basketball team to The Land. According to Sports Business Journal, the news of this proposed expansion surfaced on Sunday.
“The WNBA is preparing to award Cleveland its 16th franchise,” reported SBJ’s Tom Friend, who also noted that the franchise valuation is estimated to be around $250 million—potentially a league record.
The league has experienced substantial growth in recent seasons, with the Golden State Valkyries set to begin their inaugural season later this year. The surge in popularity for basketball in the Bay Area over the last decade has certainly been notable, and fans there will be delighted. Additionally, the Toronto Tempo is expected to join the league in 2026.
Cleveland’s addition marks an exciting time for the WNBA, and it may not end there, as several other cities are also in consideration for expansion. With the league’s focus on growth intensifying, cities like Detroit, Houston, Miami, and Philadelphia could soon receive positive news. Cleveland is set to officially gain its franchise in 2028.
