The WNBA announced formal approval for expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia on Thursday.

The move certifies those three cities, previously announced, gained authorization to join the league on their own timelines.

Cleveland is set to begin play in 2028, with Detroit following in 2029 and then Philadelphia in 2030, bringing the total number of teams in the league up to 18.

Just 13 teams competed in the league in 2025.

Less than a week ago, the WNBA’s two previously added franchises, the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, held their expansion draft.

“Great demand for WNBA franchises,” commissioner Cathy Engelbert said last June at a news conference announcing the growth. “There was huge demand. Really proud of what my team has done. Looking forward to future conversations as the league continues to grow.”

The latest announcement comes amid a flurry of activity within the league. In addition to the expansion draft, the free agency signing period is set to begin on Saturday, with the collegiate draft occurring on Monday.

The WNBA labor dispute only recently reached a positive conclusion after the league, in partnership with the Women’s National Basketball Player’s Association, officially announced on March 20 a seven-year collective bargaining agreement.

After being ratified, the deal will run through the 2032 season.

The revenue-sharing pact will increase the average salary to $583,000 this season and the maximum salary to $1.4 million, while providing over $1 billion in salaries and benefits over the contract.

“We love this game enough to push for what it can become, not just for ourselves, but for those who built this league and those who will carry it forward,” WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike said.

–Field Level Media