Cleveland Cavaliers Ownership Group Bids for WNBA Expansion Team
Rock Entertainment Group aims to bring professional women’s basketball back to Cleveland after more than 20 years, citing the city’s strong sports culture and infrastructure.
- The Cleveland Cavaliers' ownership group, Rock Entertainment Group, has formally announced a bid to secure a WNBA expansion franchise for Cleveland.
- The WNBA plans to expand to 16 teams by 2028, with Cleveland competing against cities like Denver, Miami, Milwaukee, Philadelphia, and St. Louis for the 16th slot.
- Cleveland previously hosted the Cleveland Rockers, one of the WNBA's original teams from 1997 to 2003, before the franchise folded due to financial struggles and low attendance.
- The bid highlights Cleveland’s recent success hosting major sporting events, such as the 2024 NCAA Women’s Final Four, as evidence of the city’s readiness to support a WNBA team.
- The WNBA has seen significant growth in viewership, attendance, and merchandise sales, driven by rising interest in women’s basketball and the success of high-profile players like Caitlin Clark.
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