The WNBA To Have 18 Teams By 2030

 

The WNBA has announced plans to expand to 18 teams, with recent developments indicating a faster timeline than initially projected. The league, currently comprising 13 teams with the addition of the Golden State Valkyries in 2025, will expand to 15 teams in 2026 with the inclusion of Toronto and Portland. Cleveland is set to join as the 16th team in 2028, with Detroit and Philadelphia confirmed for 2029 and 2030, respectively, reaching 18 teams.

Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed confidence in this expansion, driven by the league's growing popularity, record viewership, and a $2.2 billion media deal. Cities like Houston, Miami, and Nashville are also strong candidates for potential further expansion, with bids supported by prominent NBA owners and figures like Candace Parker. However, some players, like Cameron Brink, have suggested expanding roster sizes before adding more teams to address the talent bottleneck, as current rosters are limited to 12 players.

Expansion drafts will occur for Toronto and Portland in 2025, and likely for Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia closer to their debut seasons, with teams able to protect up to six players. The league's rapid growth reflects strong fan and investor interest, though concerns remain about roster depth and market sustainability.