Jayson Tatum can’t comment on St. Louis WNBA expansion bid, but expect more information soon

CHARLOTTE — Jayson Tatum is exploring the possibility of bringing a WNBA team to St. Louis, as the league looks to expand. A report by Sportico’s Jacob Feldman states that Tatum has expressed interest in investing in an ownership bid to establish a franchise in his hometown.

According to Feldman’s report, Tatum has informally agreed to invest in the team if it materializes and assist with the group’s pitch to potential investors and the league itself.

During a Celtics shootaround, Tatum chose not to disclose further details about his involvement in bringing a WNBA team to St. Louis.

“I can’t discuss it extensively at the moment, but there will come a time when I can provide more information,” Tatum stated.

The prospective St. Louis ownership group is led by billionaires Richard Chaifetz and David Hoffman, as per Sportico. Chaifetz has invested in several pro sports teams, while Hoffman is a real estate developer who also owns the St. Louis Blues minor league affiliate.

Why is Jayson Tatum interested?

From a business perspective, it’s not surprising that Jayson Tatum is considering co-owning a WNBA team. He has been involved in various ventures, from launching a shoe with Jordan Brand to partnering with multiple companies like Gatorade and Subway. Tatum’s interest in WNBA ownership aligns with his diverse investment portfolio and the league’s growing popularity.

Tatum has strong ties to St. Louis and has actively supported the community through his foundation since 2017. He regularly hosts basketball camps and charity events in his hometown and has maintained a close relationship with local organizations. Tatum’s involvement in supporting St. Louis extends beyond basketball.

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NBA players can now own a stake of up to 4% in a WNBA franchise under the latest collective bargaining agreement. With his recent NBA contract, Tatum is eligible to invest in a WNBA team.

What other locations could the WNBA expand to?

Currently, there are 12 active WNBA teams, with three more in development. New teams from Golden State, Toronto, and Portland are set to join in the upcoming years. The league aims to reach 16 teams by 2026.

Several cities, including Philadelphia, Miami, Milwaukee, Charlotte, and Denver, have expressed interest in hosting a WNBA team. Boston has also been considered, although the Connecticut Sun’s ownership has signaled a lack of support for a team in the area.

In a press conference before the WNBA Finals, commissioner Cathy Engelbert mentioned that approximately 10 cities are vying to become the league’s 16th franchise.

Engelbert noted, “We have significant interest from many cities who recognize the economic benefits and community impact of having a WNBA team in their area, along with the positive role models the players represent.”

Is St. Louis a potential location for WNBA expansion?

St. Louis, currently without an NBA team, does have NHL and MLB franchises. Tatum’s involvement could bring a professional basketball team to a region that has long lacked WNBA representation.