Cities like Cleveland competing for a WNBA franchise are benefiting from the increased popularity of the sport, driven by talented young players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese who have brought a burst of star power and marketability to the game in recent years.
However, this surge in popularity is not a new phenomenon.
Two decades ago, the Cleveland Rockers experienced success on the court and a dedicated fan base. The Rockers played at Gund Arena from 1997 to 2003.
Memories of the Rockers’ early years were revisited this year during the Final Four, which took place in the same arena where the Rockers played.
Players and coaches from that era recall a strong sense of camaraderie, genuine relationships between fans and players, and lasting friendships that have endured over the years.
Dan Hughes, who coached the Rockers in their final years, emphasized the special connection the team had with the city of Cleveland.
“I understand the popularity of our game has really grown,” he said. “But there still was an undeniable identification between the teams I had and the city.”
Hughes highlighted the strong relationships between players and support staff during the Rockers’ era.
“They knew ’em, they followed ’em,” he said. “They had relationships that were beyond, ‘Hello, how are you?’ Women players especially have a great ability to do that.”
Fans embraced the Rockers, and players like Rushia Brown appreciated the support.
Brown reflected on the incredible fan support she received during her time with the Rockers, especially in the team’s inaugural year.
Brown fondly remembers the camaraderie with her teammates, engaging in activities like hanging out and going to dinner together.
“For me there were always laughs. The best memories I had was the camaraderie because we did everything together,” she said.
Raegan Pebley, who played for the Rockers in 1998 and now serves as the general manager of the Los Angeles Sparks, shared fond memories of bonding with her teammates both on and off the court.
The Rockers were known for their hard-working and blue-collar approach to the game, while maintaining a sense of humor and camaraderie among the players.
Mike Wilhelm coached with the Rockers and the Cavs before leaving for a job with the Chicago Bulls in 2002.
In the beginning
The WNBA emerged following the success of the 1996 Olympic Games, with Cavs owner Gordon Gund spearheading the effort to bring a women’s team to Cleveland.
“It was a great time,” said Mike Wilhelm, who coached with both the Cavs and Rockers. “When we started it, it was bare bones.”
Wilhelm’s dual role with the Cavs and Rockers symbolized his dedication to both teams during the early years of the WNBA.
As the league grew, more teams were added and the games became more exciting for both players and fans.
The Rockers’ success in their inaugural seasons laid the groundwork for the team’s lasting impact and connection with the city.
As the league expanded, salaries increased, more owners became involved, and the game evolved to attract a wider audience, including male fans who appreciated the unique style of play in women’s basketball.
The Rockers’ legacy lives on through the memories and bonds created during their time in Cleveland.
Wilhelm reflects on the special moments shared with the players and fans that made his time with the Rockers unforgettable.
The early days of the WNBA were marked by excitement and growth, as players and teams laid the foundation for the league’s success.
The Rockers’ impact extended beyond the court, inspiring young fans and leaving a lasting impression on the city of Cleveland.
Through their dedication and hard work, the Rockers paved the way for future generations of players and fans to connect with the game of basketball.
The Rockers’ journey may have come to an end, but their legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and players who experienced the magic of women’s basketball in Cleveland.
The women’s Final Four was held in April in Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse – the same arena where the Cleveland Rockers played two decades earlier.Marc Bona, cleveland.com
Growth in the league: The game evolves
The WNBA has seen significant growth and evolution since the Rockers’ era, with new franchises and increased interest in the league across the country.
As the league continues to attract star players and expand its reach, cities like Cleveland are poised to capitalize on the momentum and bring a new era of women’s basketball to their communities.
Cleveland Cavaliers CEO Nic Barlage’s announcement about pursuing a WNBA expansion team in Cleveland demonstrates the city’s commitment to embracing women’s basketball and providing a platform for female athletes to showcase their talents.
Former players like Rushia Brown and Raegan Pebley are optimistic about the future of the WNBA and the opportunities it offers for female athletes to excel both on and off the court.
With increased visibility and support, the WNBA is poised to continue its growth and inspire future generations of players and fans.
As cities like Cleveland prepare to welcome a new WNBA team, the legacy of the Rockers lives on in the hearts of those who experienced the magic of women’s basketball in the city.
The future of the WNBA is bright, with new opportunities for players, fans, and communities to come together and celebrate the game of basketball.
Former WNBA coach Dan Hughes looks forward to the possibility of Cleveland gaining a new team, emphasizing the positive impact women’s basketball can have on communities and individuals.
As the WNBA continues to grow and evolve, cities like Cleveland have the opportunity to embrace and support female athletes, creating a new era of women’s basketball that inspires and empowers players and fans alike.
Charlotte Sting’s Shalonda Ellis and Rushia Brown of the Cleveland Rockers battle for a loose ball. Brown played six of her seven WNBA seasons in Cleveland and organized a reunion of Rockers during the Final Four in April. The Plain Dealer
About the Rockers and the WNBA
The original eight teams in the WNBA were Charlotte, Cleveland, Houston, New York, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Sacramento, and Utah.
The Cleveland Rockers compiled a 108-112 record during their time in the league.
The Rockers had a mix of winning and losing seasons, with their best season being in 2001 when they finished first in the East with a 22-10 record.
The WNBA today boasts a 12-team league with a 40-game schedule, culminating in exciting championship games that draw in viewers from around the world.
