Exciting news is brewing in the world of women’s professional basketball! The Sports Business Journal is reporting that Cleveland is on the cusp of becoming the next city to welcome a WNBA franchise, with the 2028 season potentially marking the debut of the new team. This monumental development comes as a significant boost to the growth and popularity of the women’s game in the United States.
As the WNBA continues to gain momentum and attract a new generation of fans, this expansion is expected to bring more opportunities for top-notch talent, increased exposure, and a stronger presence for the league. For the city of Cleveland, which has a rich basketball history and a dedicated fan base, this news is a dream come true.
Cleveland’s Bid for the 16th Franchise
Morningpicker has learned from sources that Cleveland is the frontrunner to be awarded the WNBA’s 16th franchise, with an estimated bid of $250 million, a record for the league. This bid puts Cleveland in a strong position, with sources estimating a 90% chance of securing the expansion team. An announcement is expected no later than March.
The high bid comes as no surprise, given the Cavaliers organization’s strong commitment to the city and its recent investments in sports and entertainment infrastructure. Cleveland’s potential return to the WNBA is a significant development, marking the revival of the Cleveland Rockers, the city’s original WNBA franchise that folded in 2003.
Potential Candidates for the 17th and 18th Franchises
While Cleveland appears to be the clear choice for the 16th franchise, the race for the 17th and 18th teams is more competitive. Several cities are vying for the opportunity to welcome a WNBA team, each with its own strengths and advantages.
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is considered a strong contender, boasting established NBA infrastructure and a clear priority to house a WNBA team. With the construction of a new arena in South Philadelphia, the city’s ownership group, led by Josh Harris, has signaled their intent to create a WNBA franchise alongside the Philadelphia 76ers and Philadelphia Flyers.
Houston
Houston is another well-positioned city, having recently constructed a state-of-the-art 75,000 square-foot practice facility. Owner Tilman Fertitta’s estimated net worth of over $10 billion and the city’s existing NBA infrastructure further solidify its bid. The potential return of the Houston Comets, a four-time champion franchise that folded in 2008, adds sentimental value to Houston’s bid.
Nashville
Nashville has emerged as a potential candidate, leveraging its strong sports market and a reportedly competitive bid ranging from $200 million to $250 million. The city’s vibrant entertainment scene and growing population make it an attractive market for a WNBA franchise.
Detroit and Miami
Detroit and Miami are also in the running, but their chances remain less clear compared to Philadelphia, Houston, and Nashville. Both cities have a history with the WNBA, with Detroit hosting the Detroit Shock and Miami the Miami Sol, but their current bids and market positions are less defined.
WNBA’s Expansion Process and Evaluation
The WNBA’s expansion process involves a rigorous evaluation of formal bids submitted by ownership groups from various cities. The league considers various factors, including the strength of the bid, the potential market size, existing infrastructure, and the commitment of the ownership group to building a successful franchise.
Morningpicker has learned that the league has received bids ranging from $200 million to $250 million, highlighting the significant financial interest in expanding the WNBA.
While a league spokesperson declined to comment on specific bids or potential locations, they confirmed that the WNBA is “currently in the process of evaluating these proposals.” The league is expected to make an announcement regarding the awarded franchises in the coming months.
The Revival of the Cleveland Rockers
The Cleveland Rockers, the city’s original WNBA franchise, folded in 2003 due to financial difficulties and attendance struggles. However, the league’s exponential growth and popularity in the past two decades have created a more favorable environment for expansion, leading to a resurgence of interest in Cleveland.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, owners of the city’s NBA team, are reportedly prepared to invest heavily in the revival of the Rockers. The franchise is expected to play at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, the Cavaliers’ home arena, showcasing the city’s commitment to supporting women’s professional basketball.
The return of the Rockers signifies a significant moment for Cleveland and the WNBA. It demonstrates the league’s continued expansion and success, while providing a new platform for female athletes to showcase their talents.
Conclusion
Conclusion: A New Era for the WNBA – Cleveland on the Brink of History
As the sports world continues to buzz with excitement, the news of Cleveland being likely awarded the next WNBA franchise for 2028 has sent shockwaves of anticipation throughout the basketball community. According to a recent report by the Sports Business Journal, the city’s bid has gained significant momentum, with key stakeholders and officials expressing confidence in the process. This development marks a crucial milestone in the history of the WNBA, as Cleveland would become the first team to join the league in the 21st century.
The implications of this move are far-reaching, with significant potential for growth and development in women’s professional basketball. A new franchise in Cleveland would not only bring a fresh dynamic to the league but also provide a much-needed boost to the city’s sports landscape. The introduction of a WNBA team would undoubtedly create new opportunities for fans, sponsors, and players alike, cementing the league’s position as a premier destination for women’s basketball. As the WNBA continues to soar to new heights, the arrival of a new franchise in Cleveland would be a testament to the league’s commitment to expansion and innovation.
As we look ahead to the 2028 season, the possibilities are endless. A new franchise in Cleveland would undoubtedly bring a new level of excitement and energy to the league, and the city’s passionate fan base would provide a loyal and dedicated supporter base. The future of the WNBA has never looked brighter, and the news of Cleveland being awarded the next franchise is a harbinger of great things to come. Get ready, basketball fans, for a new era of competition, excitement, and growth – the WNBA is on the cusp of something truly special, and Cleveland is leading the charge.