Cleveland has taken a significant step toward bringing a WNBA team to Northeast Ohio. The Cleveland Cavaliers, under the umbrella of Rock Entertainment Group, have announced their formal bid to establish a WNBA franchise. With growing momentum in women’s sports and Cleveland’s history of passionate fans, the city’s leaders believe they are uniquely positioned to host the league’s next expansion team.
Why Cleveland?
Nic Barlage, CEO of the Cleveland Cavaliers, highlighted the city’s blend of infrastructure, sports culture, and community support as reasons Cleveland is an ideal candidate. Cleveland’s vibrant sports scene includes the Cavaliers (NBA), Browns (NFL), Guardians (MLB), and Monsters (AHL), which have fostered a dedicated fanbase.
“We have this unique convergence of infrastructure, culture, and foundational pieces that make Northeast Ohio a great opportunity for WNBA expansion,” Barlage said.
Additionally, the Cavaliers’ recent partnership with Cleveland Clinic to develop a new Performance Center and their existing practice facility in Independence, Ohio, provide state-of-the-art resources ready for a WNBA team.
A Legacy to Build On
This isn’t Cleveland’s first venture into women’s basketball. From 1997 to 2003, the Cleveland Rockers were among the WNBA’s inaugural teams. Despite their passionate fanbase, the Rockers folded due to financial challenges and ownership changes. However, much has changed in the decades since. The WNBA is experiencing unprecedented growth, with record-breaking attendance, viewership, and merchandise sales.
The WNBA’s 2024 Finals saw the highest viewership in 25 years, while attendance hit its best mark in over two decades. Merchandise sales also soared, increasing by more than 600% from 2023. This resurgence in women’s sports aligns perfectly with Cleveland’s renewed energy and community-driven focus.
Cleveland’s Resurgence and Sporting Credentials
Cleveland’s downtown has undergone a dramatic transformation, earning recognition as a model for revitalization. Major events like the 2021 NFL Draft, 2022 NBA All-Star Weekend, and the 2024 NCAA Women’s Final Four have further established the city as a premier destination for sports.
“Cleveland’s vibrant ecosystem of world-class assets, passionate sports fans, and thriving professional sports culture make it an ideal home for the WNBA’s next franchise,” Barlage said.
David Gilbert, CEO of the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, echoed these sentiments. He emphasized how a WNBA team would not only benefit locals but also attract visitors, creating a ripple effect of economic growth for the region.
What’s Next?
The WNBA is aiming to expand to 16 teams by 2028, with Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressing interest in cities demonstrating strong community support, facilities, and market potential. Cleveland joins a competitive field of suitors, including Denver, Miami, Milwaukee, St. Louis, and Philadelphia.
Engelbert has already overseen the addition of new franchises, with the Golden State Valkyries set to debut in 2025 and Toronto and Portland securing spots for the 14th and 15th teams. While no official timeline has been set for the 16th team, Cleveland’s compelling pitch and robust sports infrastructure make it a strong contender.
If successful, the bid would not only bring professional women’s basketball back to Cleveland but also further solidify the city’s reputation as a hub for sporting excellence. Fans and officials alike are optimistic about the potential for Cleveland to once again host a WNBA team.