The WNBA continues to grow each year, and the next expansion team in Cleveland now has a name.
The Cleveland expansion team will be called the Sirens. They released a statement on the meaning before the new name was picked.
“From the fierce waves of Lake Erie. Where the steel meets storm and legends are forged. A forcef emerges, powerful, elusive, and relentless. It doesn’t announce itself with fanfare. It draws you in, quiet at first, then thunderous, like lake winds building before the break. The myth made manifest. The voice that calls out. The hum rolling in from the shores to downtown. The song in the dark that promises beauty and delivers reckoning. Enter the depths. Hear the call. Welcome the Cleveland Sirens.”
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Cleveland Sirens Now Joining the WNBA in the Near Future
GettyPORTLAND, OREGON – JUNE 11: WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert gives a pre-game interview before a Commissioner’s Cup game between the Portland Fire and the Las Vegas Aces at Moda Center on June 11, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ali Gradischer/Getty Images)
This is a big moment for the WNBA, as they get the first big domino to drop since announcing their expansion plans. It all started with the Golden State Valkyries, who started in the 2025 season and have quickly become one of the league’s best teams this season.
The Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo were the next step in that expansion plan, as they started this season. Each team has won just 11 games entering the final part of the year.
Cleveland won’t be hitting the court until the 2028 season. They are owned by the Cleveland Cavaliers team owner Dan Gilbert. The Sirens will be playing in Rocket Arena, where the Cavaliers also play their home games.
Two more expansion teams will be added after the Sirens start. The Detroit team will play in 2029, and the Philadelphia team will start in 2030.
WNBA Continues to Take Major Step Towards Promising Future
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 14: WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert speaks during the 2025 WNBA Draft at The Shed on April 14, 2025 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
This season is proving that the talent level is good enough to continue to expand. Golden State has become a great team within two years. Toronto and Portland show promising futures with their rosters.
Over the last three years, the WNBA has seen its television ratings and attendance numbers jump to all-time highs. That has led to the games being broadcast on CBS, ABC, NBC, and Amazon Video.
With the growth rate that the league is currently at, it’s only going to get better for them. The WNBA is on the rise and will be among the top sports leagues in North America soon enough.
WNBA’s Cleveland Expansion Team Shares New Announcement