The WNBA is set to host its first regular-season game outside of the United States next year. The Atlanta Dream and Seattle Storm will face off in August at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, as announced by the league on Monday.
This news comes as the league continues its rapid expansion. In May 2023, the WNBA held its first game in Canada, which was a sold-out match between the Chicago Sky and Minnesota Lynx in Toronto.
In 2026, Toronto was granted the 14th WNBA franchise, becoming the league’s first team based outside of the U.S. Additionally, Portland is scheduled to launch a team in the same year.
“The WNBA Canada Game has been a significant opportunity for us to expand the league’s presence,” stated Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “With the upcoming establishment of a Toronto franchise, this game and our ongoing engagement efforts reflect the growing momentum of women’s basketball in Canada.”
The Seattle Storm and Atlanta Dream both had early exits in the playoffs this year, with the Storm making their 19th post-season appearance and the Dream falling to the eventual champions, New York Liberty.
The game between the Storm and Dream is scheduled for August 15th.
