WNBA: Expansion Approved for Philadelphia, Cleveland and Detroit

The WNBA and NBA Board of Governors officially approved on Thursday the addition of three new expansion franchises in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia. This decision marks a major milestone in the development of the women’s league.

The initial announcement of this expansion to these three cities was made on June 30, 2025, but remained subject to formal board approval. That approval has now been granted, paving the way for a total of 18 teams in the league.

An Integration Timeline Spread Over Three Seasons

Cleveland will be the first to launch in 2028, followed by Detroit in 2029. Philadelphia will round out the expansion in 2030, completing this growth phase.

All three cities share the distinction of already hosting an NBA franchise: the Cavaliers in Cleveland, the Pistons in Detroit and the 76ers in Philadelphia. The presence of established men’s teams should help facilitate the integration of the new WNBA franchises.

This expansion is part of a broader growth momentum for the WNBA. As early as the 2026 season, two new teams will make their debut: the Portland Fire and the Toronto Tempo. These franchises, also located in cities with NBA teams (the Trail Blazers and the Raptors), have already taken part in an expansion draft to build their respective rosters.

Further details about these three new WNBA franchises will be announced by the league at a later date.

Expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia have been approved by the WNBA and NBA Board of Governors, the WNBA announced Thursday.

Cleveland will begin play in 2028, with Detroit and Philadelphia starting in 2029 and 2030 respectively. pic.twitter.com/eiUqMe4RLU

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 10, 2026