The WNBA is expanding to Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia in the next three to five years, according to an announcement made on Monday, June 30, 2025.
The addition of new teams will elevate the total number of 18 teams in the league by 2030, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for women’s basketball. Cleveland is set to make its debut in 2028, followed by Detroit in 2029 and Philadelphia in 2030. The expansion teams are subject to final approval from the NBA and WNBA Board of Governors.
The initiative to establish three new teams was spearheaded by the ownership groups for the Cavaliers, Pistons, and 76ers, all of whom are backed by the league in their respective cities.
The three latest cities: Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia will host a WNBA team by 2030; Photo Credit: istock Photos, Michigan Tech, and Elevated Angles
Detroit and Cleveland, once home to the WNBA teams known as the Shock and Rockers, are now exploring the possibility of reviving those legendary franchises. Philadelphia is preparing to host the WNBA for the first time.
The league already welcomed the Golden State Valkyries this year, followed by Toronto Tempo and Portland (no official name) in 2026.
