The 12-team WNBA will be expanding as soon as next season, with the Golden State Valkyries joining as the league’s 13th team in 2025.
This expansion is significant given the increased attention and popularity of women’s basketball, making it an ideal time for the league to grow.
Golden State is just the beginning, as Portland and Toronto have also been confirmed to receive expansion teams, expected to debut by the 2026 season.
The WNBA plans to further expand and aims to add a 16th team by the 2028 season, with the location of this team currently unknown.
Reports suggest that NFL star Patrick Mahomes, who co-owns the NWSL’s KC Current, is in talks to bring the next WNBA franchise to Kansas City.
As WNBA expansion continues, ownership of the NWSL’s KC Current — which includes Patrick Mahomes and his wife, Brittany — has met with the WNBA and is in contention to bring the league’s next franchise to Kansas City. Mahomes also co-owns the KC Royals and Sporting KC. pic.twitter.com/9kd2VXzWR3
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 30, 2024
Patrick Mahomes, a highly successful NFL player, has the resources and interest to support a WNBA expansion team in Kansas City.
With multiple championships and endorsements, Mahomes is well-positioned to invest in the growth of women’s basketball.
