Report: Cleveland 'likely' to be chosen for WNBA expansion with new team expected in 2028

CLEVELAND — According to a report from Sports Business Journal's Tom Friend, Cleveland is "likely" to be awarded a WNBA franchise as the league continues its focus on expanding.

Cleveland is no stranger to the WNBA product, but it has been over 20 years since a team has represented the city in the league.

Cleveland was originally chosen as one of the founding cities in the WNBA's inaugural 1997 season, embracing the "Rockers" name. The Rockers lasted until the conclusion of the 2003 season when they closed operations.

Since the Cleveland Rockers folded, the WNBA product has surged in popularity, and it's no secret that Cleveland wants back in.

In November of 2024, Cleveland Cavaliers, Rock Entertainment Group and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse CEO Nic Barlage announced the companies' intentions to bring the WNBA back to Cleveland.




https://www.wkyc.com/article/sports/basketball/report-cleveland-likely-chosen-wnba-expansion-new-team-expected-2028/95-fbcea5f2-1850-4899-8fac-7e7c0727c442