The WNBA is expanding. After signing high-profile rookies, increasing visibility and growing viewership, the league announced plans for its first international franchise.
The WNBA confirmed that it is expanding into Canada and that the city of Toronto will be its first international franchise team in a press release on Thursday, May 23. The new team will become the WNBA’s 14th franchise.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert talked about the new team, calling it a “milestone” for the league. “Bringing a WNBA team to Toronto represents an important milestone for our league as we continue to expand domestically and beyond the United States,” she said in a statement.
Highlighting “Toronto’s appeal as a dynamic, diverse city that cares deeply about the game of basketball,” Engelbert added, “We are confident that this new team will thrive as a premier WNBA organization and become a great source of inspiration and support for communities in Toronto and across Canada.” ”
WNBA to start flying players via charter plane as Caitlin Clark, Brittney Griner have airport congestion
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
According to the announcement, the team will be owned and operated by Kilmer Sports Ventures, with Larry Tanenbaum, president of Kilmer Sports Ventures, at the helm.
Tanenbaum expressed his excitement about the expansion to Toronto and the inspiring fans. “Today is a game-changing day not only for women’s basketball but for sports in Canada,” he said. “This franchise will be Canada’s team and we are very excited to unite the country and inspire pride and passion in fans from coast to coast.”
In a statement shared by the WNBA, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, “It’s official: Canada is getting a WNBA team! This landmark deal will provide an opportunity for our outstanding athletes across the country and on the biggest stage. I can’t wait to see our Canadian women win on the field.”
WNBA.
Ethan Miller/Getty
Breanna Stewart reacts to WNBA salary discourse: ‘It’s not something that’s going to change overnight’ (Exclusive)
While speaking with PEOPLE in July 2023, Engelbert spoke about her desire to increase the number of franchises in the WNBA. What will help is increasing the number of teams, she said. “I wasn’t shy about talking about expansion.”
She also talked about the 20,000 turnout for the 2023 preseason game between the Chicago Sky and Minnesota Lynx in Toronto and what that means for the future of the league. “It’s been an incredible signal of interest, and not just in Canada, but there are quite a few other cities that are very interested,” she said.
Meanwhile, Toronto’s new team will begin play in 2026, with games played at the Coca-Cola Coliseum at Exhibition Place.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education