Cleveland Aims for New WNBA Franchise

Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert is leading a formal bid to establish a WNBA expansion team in Cleveland, seeking to revitalize professional women's basketball in the city since the Rockers disbanded in 2003. The WNBA is currently experiencing a surge in popularity, with record attendance and viewership, fueled in part by standout rookies like Caitlin Clark. Commisioner Cathy Engelbert envisions expanding the league to 16 teams by 2028, with new franchises in Toronto, Portland, and Golden State already confirmed. Cleveland's strong sports culture, highlighted by recent successful events like the NCAA Women’s Final Four, positions the city favorably in the competition for a new team. Other cities, including Kansas City and Philadelphia, are also vying for expansion, but local officials express confidence in Cleveland's appeal. This development reflects broader trends in women's sports gaining recognition and support across the nation.