The WNBA is growing, and with the league’s rising popularity, it’s time to start thinking about expansion. More teams mean more opportunities for talent, bigger fan bases, and an even stronger league presence nationwide.
With women’s basketball seeing record-breaking viewership and attendance, the demand for more teams is higher than ever. There are plenty of cities hungry for a team, and we’ve picked the 10 that make the most sense. Let’s break down where the WNBA should plant its next flag!
10. San Diego, CA
Southern California already has the Los Angeles Sparks, but there’s plenty of room for another team. San Diego is a massive sports town with no NBA team, which means a WNBA squad would own the basketball scene.
9. Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati fans ride hard for their teams, and the WNBA would get instant support here. If the city can pack stadiums for Bengals and Reds games, you can bet they’d show up for a dominant WNBA squad.
8. Louisville, KY
Kentucky lives and breathes basketball, and Louisville is the perfect fit for a WNBA franchise. The city already crushes it with women’s college hoops, so giving them a pro team would be a slam dunk.
7. Kansas City, MO
KC has a rich sports culture, and a WNBA team would fit perfectly between the Chiefs and Royals. The city has hosted successful college basketball events, proving the fan base is more than ready for a pro team.
6. Columbus, OH
Ohio really needs a WNBA team, and Columbus makes too much sense. With Ohio State dominating women’s hoops, a WNBA team would instantly become a staple of the city’s sports culture.
5. Austin, TX
Texas already has the Dallas Wings, but Austin is its own vibe and would totally embrace the WNBA. The city is growing fast, loves basketball, and would bring the same energy they bring to Longhorns games.
4. Philadelphia, PA
Philly fans are passionate—sometimes a little too passionate—but that’s exactly why the WNBA should set up shop here. A WNBA team in Philly would get loud, loyal, and slightly unhinged support from day one.
3. Detroit, MI
Detroit has deep basketball roots, and it’s time to bring a WNBA team back to the Motor City. The Pistons might be struggling, but the city’s love for hoops is real, and a WNBA team would be embraced instantly.
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2. Miami, FL
The WNBA needs a strong presence in Florida, and Miami is the best option. With a passionate sports culture and a vibrant city that thrives on big events, a Miami WNBA team would be a perfect fit.
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1. Nashville, TN
Music City would be a perfect home for the WNBA, and the fan support would be next-level. With strong women’s basketball roots and a booming sports scene, Nashville deserves to be first in line for expansion.
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