With each new expansion announcement, hopeful cities nationwide begin dusting off stadium blueprints and ramping up efforts to secure a franchise. Some cities have been waiting so long that it’s getting disrespectful.
Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball, or hockey, these cities have the fan bases, the passion, and the attitude to support a pro team. Here are 15 US cities that deserve a major league shot, ranked from 15 to 1.
15. Charleston, South Carolina
As a starting point for the list, Charleston blends Southern charm with a growing population and sports enthusiasm, positioning itself as a natural candidate for significant league attention. With the right team, fans would show up early, loud, and proud.
14. Boise, Idaho
Boise has quietly built one of the more passionate sports cultures thanks to Boise State football’s rise. A pro team would give all those blue-and-orange fans a new reason to scream their faces off.
13. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque punches above its weight with minor league baseball and a thriving local scene. It’s more than ready for the big leagues, which is a reason to bust out even more neon colors.
12. Honolulu, Hawaii
Imagine the visiting teams constantly “struggling” because they’re too busy enjoying paradise. Honolulu would bring a one-of-a-kind atmosphere to any major sports league.
11. Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville lives and breathes sports already, with a basketball culture that borders on religious. Throw a pro team into that fire; you’ll have instant sellouts and nonstop passion.
10. Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha shows up every year for the College World Series like it’s the Super Bowl, so there’s no doubt a pro team would thrive. Plus, Nebraska fans already know how to stay loyal through thick and thin.
9. Richmond, Virginia
Richmond is right in that sweet spot: big enough to support a team, small enough to feel like it matters. Plus, it’s been overlooked for too long and deserves its moment.
8. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa has the infrastructure, the appetite for sports, and a community vibe to make a new team feel like family. They’re more than ready to step out of Oklahoma City’s shadow.
7. El Paso, Texas
El Paso has a massive population, passionate sports fans, and a severe case of being overlooked. A pro team would have a huge built-in fan base from day one.
6. Des Moines, Iowa
If you’ve ever seen how Iowa turns out for college sports, you know this state doesn’t play around when it comes to loyalty. Des Moines would go wild for a team they could finally call theirs.
5. Fresno, California
Fresno is the biggest city you’ve never heard about regarding pro sports expansion. Give these folks a team and you’ll see some of the rowdiest crowds west of the Rockies.
4. Hartford, Connecticut
Hartford still hasn’t gotten over losing the Whalers, and honestly, they deserve a little sports karma. Bring a team back here and watch the entire state of Connecticut turn out in full force.
3. Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham’s sports history runs deep, and the city has proven time and time again that it can support a big event. A full-time pro team would turn game days into city-wide parties.
Read More: 10 Cities the WNBA Should Expand To
2. Portland, Maine
Portland has the energy, quirkiness, and pure sports love to support a pro team easily. Plus, the mascots and team names would be legendary.
Read More: The 15 Ultimate U.S. Cities for Sports Fans
1. Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage might sound wild at first, but hear us out: it would instantly become the most unique road trip in sports. The community pride is off the charts, and you know every visiting team would secretly dread making the trek north.
Read More: 10 Cities That Deserve an NFL Team Right Now
