The WNBA is growing—on the court, in the stands, and across the cultural landscape. With ratings rising, merchandise flying off the shelves, and top ex-college stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese commanding national headlines, the time is now for strategic league expansion. But where should the W land next?
Here are three cities that not only make sense—but feel inevitable.
1. Cleveland, Ohio: A Midwest Rivalry Hub in the Making
Cleveland last hosted a WNBA franchise with the Cleveland Rockers, one of the league’s original teams. Though they folded in 2003, the city’s passion for basketball hasn’t faded. In fact, it’s primed to pick up where it left off—with more infrastructure and more fan appetite than ever.
Why Cleveland is Back on the Map:
Strong regional ties: Close proximity to Chicago, Indiana, and (potentially) Detroit allows for rivalries and reduced travel costs.
Cavaliers’ backing potential: With Dan Gilbert’s resources and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse already in place, the city can launch seamlessly.
Underrated hoops culture: Northeast Ohio quietly develops some of the best girls’ basketball talent in the country.
WNBA All-Star host history: Cleveland has proven its ability to support marquee women’s events.
Expansion to Cleveland not only revives a beloved former franchise—it strengthens the league’s Midwest backbone.
2. Detroit, Michigan: A Championship Legacy Waiting to Return
Detroit isn’t new to the WNBA conversation—in fact, it once set the standard.
From 1998 to 2009, the Detroit Shock were a force, capturing three championships in six years under the guidance of Bill Laimbeer and anchored by legends like Swin Cash, Deanna Nolan, and Cheryl Ford. The team’s relocation to Tulsa in 2010 left a championship-sized void in a city that breathes basketball.
Why It Makes Sense Now:
Built-in fanbase and nostalgia: Reintroducing the franchise taps into history and loyalty.
Top-15 media market: Plenty of opportunity for branding, partnerships, and local media coverage.
Basketball hotbed: Detroit’s high school and grassroots programs consistently produce elite talent.
NBA synergy: A return could align with the Detroit Pistons, creating operational ease and shared venue benefits with Little Caesars Arena.
In many ways, a WNBA return to Detroit isn’t a gamble—it’s a restoration.Cleveland, Ohio: A Midwest Rivalry Hub in the Making
Cleveland last hosted a WNBA franchise with the Cleveland Rockers, one of the league’s original teams. Though they folded in 2003, the city’s passion for basketball hasn’t faded. In fact, it’s primed to pick up where it left off—with more infrastructure and more fan appetite than ever.
3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: The Sleeping Giant
Despite being one of America’s top five media markets, Philadelphia remains without a WNBA team. That’s hard to believe considering its deep basketball roots and passionate sports culture. But what was once a glaring omission might soon become the league’s crown jewel.
Why Philly Feels Inevitable:
-
Unmatched market size and visibility: An East Coast stronghold would bolster TV deals and brand awareness.
-
Grassroots and college talent: The Big 5 schools (Temple, Villanova, Penn, etc.) and Philly-area high schools produce WNBA-caliber players regularly.
-
No pro women’s teams currently: The city’s rabid sports fans are more than ready to rally around a women's franchise.
-
Player ties: WNBA stars like Natasha Cloud and Kahleah Copper have Philly roots—local heroes with national platforms.
With the right ownership group and community engagement, Philadelphia could be both a business success and a cultural movement.
The Bottom Line
The WNBA is entering a new era—one defined by visibility, investment, and generational talent. If the league is going to expand (as Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has indicated it will), it needs cities that offer both infrastructure and identity. Detroit has the rings. Cleveland has the region. Philadelphia has the reach.
These cities aren’t just “on the list.” They’re ready to lead.
No comments:
Post a Comment