The WNBA has officially approved expansion franchises in Portland and Toronto, bringing the league to 16 teams beginning with the 2027 season. Both cities paid record expansion fees of $100 million each, reflecting the explosive growth in women's basketball popularity.
Portland's franchise will play at the Moda Center, sharing the arena with the NBA's Trail Blazers. Nike co-founder Phil Knight is the lead investor, bringing significant resources and marketing expertise to the venture.
Toronto represents the WNBA's first international franchise, following the NBA model. The team will play at Scotiabank Arena and is backed by Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, the same ownership group behind the Raptors and Maple Leafs.
The expansion is driven by surging WNBA ratings and attendance, which have increased 50% since 2023. The Caitlin Clark effect has brought unprecedented mainstream attention to women's basketball, and the league is capitalizing on the momentum.
An expansion draft will be held in December 2026, with existing teams able to protect eight players. The new franchises will also receive favorable positioning in the 2027 WNBA Draft. Both teams are expected to be competitive within 2-3 seasons.
