The Berman Family Takes Lead on Bringing WNBA Back too Charlotte by 2028
An ambitious effort to bring WNBA basketball back to Charlotte is underway, with the Berman family leading plans for what could become the league’s 16th team by 2028. Local supporters have gotten behind the idea, with 4,000 people already signing on to support professional women’s basketball’s return to North Carolina.
Hornets back bid for WNBA to return to Queen City
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – The Charlotte Hornets are backing a move for the WNBA to come back to the Queen City. The WBNA recently filed a trademark application for the name Charlotte Sting and there is currently a bid for an expansion team by the Berman Family and the Hornets are backing that bid. The Hornets released the following statement:
Berman family officially submits bid to restore Charlotte sting franchise
As WNBA officials review the expansion bid and work to secure the Charlotte Sting brand trademark, basketball fans throughout the Carolinas await the potential return of professional women’s basketball to the region. The Berman family, known for their investments in sports and technology, has officially submitted a bid to restore the Charlotte Sting franchise, which previously operated from 1997 to 2007.The Berman Family also invested in Unrivaled — the professional 3-on-3 women’s basketball league — leading a Series A investment round of $28 million.
Nadia Eke, a strategy consultant for Berman, told WUNC the family’s bid was submitted to Allen & Co. — an investment bank advising the WNBA on expansion — by the Jan. 30 deadline.
Berman’s bid is being supported by the new ownership group of the Hornets, which includes majority owners Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall, who purchased the majority stake in the team from basketball legend Michael Jordan in 2023. Plotkin is the former head and founder of the hedge fund Melvin Capital Management, while Schnall is the co-president of a private equity firm.
WNBA Expansion Reflects Growing Popularity of Women’s Basketball
The WNBA has just completed its 28th season, a milestone that underscores the league’s enduring presence and growth. Founded in 1997, the WNBA has evolved from a modest 8-team league to a robust 12-team institution.This expansion is a testament to the increasing popularity and interest in women’s basketball.
A New Era of Expansion
The 2024 season saw the debut of the Golden State Valkyries,based in San Francisco. This addition marks a meaningful step forward for the league, bringing the total number of teams to 12. The Valkyries join a league that has seen steady growth, both on and off the court. The upcoming seasons promise even more expansion, with teams in Portland and Toronto slated to begin play in 2026.
Cities in the Running
The WNBA’s expansion has sparked a competitive race among cities and prospective owners eager to secure a franchise. This year alone, public announcements have been made regarding bids for expansion teams in Nashville, Tennessee, and Detroit. These cities, along with others, recognize the economic and cultural benefits that a WNBA team can bring.
Toronto’s Investment
Toronto’s ownership group has shown significant interest and investment in the WNBA. The city’s bid for a team reflects a broader trend of international interest in women’s basketball. Toronto’s potential entry into the league would not only expand the WNBA’s geographical footprint but also tap into a growing fan base outside the United States.
The Future of Women’s Basketball
The WNBA’s expansion is more than just a numerical increase in teams. It represents a broader shift in the sports landscape, where women’s basketball is gaining recognition and support. As the league continues to grow, it opens up opportunities for more players, coaches, and fans to be a part of the WNBA community.
Key Points Summary
| Year | Teams Added | Notable Events |
|————|————-|—————————————–|
| 1997 | 8 | WNBA founded |
| 2024 | 1 | Golden State Valkyries debut |
| 2026 | 2 | Portland and Toronto teams begin play |
| 2024 | – | Bids for Nashville and Detroit teams |
Conclusion
The WNBA’s 28th season and the ongoing expansion efforts highlight the league’s resilience and growth. As women’s basketball continues to gain traction, cities and ownership groups are eager to be part of this exciting era. The future looks luminous for the WNBA, with more teams, more fans, and more opportunities for everyone involved.
For more insights into the WNBA and its expansion, visit the official WNBA website. Stay tuned for updates on the latest developments and how the league is shaping the future of women’s basketball.
Charlotte Secures WNBA Expansion Team, Reigniting Women’s Basketball Passion
In a groundbreaking move for women’s basketball, the city of Charlotte has been awarded a WNBA expansion team. The announcement, which came after the league paid $115 million for the new franchise, marks a significant investment in the growth and visibility of women’s sports.
Last week, the WNBA filed new trademark applications for five of its now-defunct franchises, including the Sting. This strategic move suggests a renewed interest in reviving past teams and expanding their reach.
While it’s been nearly two decades since the WNBA played in Charlotte, there seems to be an appetite for women’s basketball in the Queen City. For the second straight year, more than 15,000 people attended the Ally Tip-Off at the spectrum Center — the home of the Hornets — for women’s college basketball games. this season’s event featured a game between reigning national champions University of South Carolina and N.C. State, in which Dawn Staley’s Gamecocks won 71-57.
After the game, Staley reminisced on her days playing point guard for the Sting, where she made four WNBA All-Star teams and helped lead the squad to an appearance in the WNBA Finals in 2001. Months before this bid became public, Staley believed that Charlotte was ripe for a second chance from the WNBA.!Charlotte’s Basketball Legacy
The city’s enthusiasm for women’s basketball is evident in the growing attendance at college games and the historical success of local teams.This new WNBA team promises to further elevate the sport in Charlotte, providing a platform for talented female athletes and inspiring a new generation of fans.
Key points Summary
| Category | Details |
|———————|————————————————————————-|
| WNBA Expansion | Charlotte awarded a WNBA expansion team after a $115 million investment. |
| Historical context | The WNBA last played in Charlotte nearly two decades ago. |
| current Enthusiasm | over 15,000 attendees at the Ally Tip-Off for women’s college basketball. |
| Legendary Coach | Dawn Staley reminisces about her time with the Sting and believes in Charlotte’s potential. |
Conclusion
The arrival of the WNBA in Charlotte is more than just an addition to the city’s sports landscape; it’s a testament to the growing appreciation and support for women’s basketball. As the new team takes the court, it will not only bring excitement and competition but also inspire young athletes and fans alike. The future of women’s basketball in Charlotte is bright, and the city is ready to embrace this new chapter in its sporting history.
Stay tuned for more updates on the WNBA’s expansion and the impact it will have on Charlotte’s sports scene.
Charlotte Welcomes Women’s Basketball with Open Arms
Charlotte, NC – The city of Charlotte is set to become a significant hub for women’s basketball, with multiple high-profile events and new leagues choosing the city as their home. The enthusiasm for women’s basketball in Charlotte is palpable, as evidenced by recent announcements and historical context.
A Prime Spot for Women’s Basketball
In a notable development, South Carolina coach Dawn Staley highlighted Charlotte’s potential as a prime location for women’s basketball events. “I think this is a prime spot for a WNBA team, for a Final Four — anything that women are doing. You see the city, they just embrace the game,” Staley said in November.
Charlotte’s embrace of women’s basketball is not new. The city has a history of hosting significant women’s basketball events, including the upcoming Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) women’s basketball tournament in 2027. This tournament will bring together some of the top women’s college basketball teams in the nation, further cementing Charlotte’s status as a basketball destination.
The Upshot League: A New Era
Adding to the excitement, the newly formed Upshot women’s basketball league announced in january that it will place one of its four teams in Charlotte when it begins play in 2026. The Charlotte team will play at the 8,600-seat bojangles Coliseum. Organizers involved with Upshot, including women’s basketball Hall of Famers Cheryl Miller and Ann Meyers Drysdale, describe it as a developmental league aimed at nurturing talent and growing the sport.
The Upshot league is part of a broader trend of new leagues and initiatives focused on women’s basketball.These efforts aim to provide more opportunities for female athletes and to increase the visibility and popularity of the sport.
Summary of Key Developments
| Year | Event/League | Venue/Details |
|————|—————————–|—————————————————-|
| 2024 | Final Four | Cleveland, Ohio |
| 2027 | ACC Women’s Basketball Tour. | Charlotte, NC |
| 2026 | Upshot League | Charlotte, Bojangles Coliseum (8,600 seats) |
Embracing the Game
Charlotte’s embrace of women’s basketball is not just about hosting events; it’s about creating a culture that supports and celebrates the sport. The city’s willingness to invest in and host these events underscores its commitment to advancing women’s basketball.
As Charlotte continues to grow as a hub for women’s basketball, the city’s fans and organizers alike look forward to the exciting developments and the impact these events will have on the sport and the community.
For more insights into Charlotte’s basketball scene, visit WUNC and axios.
WNBA Soars to Top Spot as Fastest-Growing Professional Sports Brand in 2024
In a groundbreaking announcement,Forbes revealed that the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) emerged as the fastest-growing professional sports brand in 2024. This remarkable achievement underscores the league’s significant strides in popularity and viewership, marking a pivotal moment in the world of professional sports.
The WNBA’s growth trajectory was further validated by the viewership numbers for the 2024 WNBA Finals. Game 5 of the series between the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx drew in a staggering 3.3 million viewers, making it the moast-watched WNBA Finals game in 25 years. This milestone highlights the increasing interest and engagement from fans,signaling a promising future for the league.
Key Highlights of the WNBA’s Growth
| Metric | Value |
|————————–|——————————–|
| Growth Rate | Fastest-growing professional sports brand in 2024 |
| Viewership | 3.3 million viewers for Game 5 of the WNBA Finals |
| Historical Context | Most-watched WNBA Finals game in 25 years |
The WNBA’s rapid growth can be attributed to several factors, including increased media coverage, strategic marketing efforts, and the extraordinary talent showcased on the court. The league’s ability to captivate audiences and build a loyal fan base has positioned it as a formidable player in the competitive sports landscape.
Strategic Marketing and Media Coverage
The WNBA has leveraged various marketing strategies to boost its visibility and appeal. Collaborations with major media outlets, such as ESPN, have played a crucial role in expanding the league’s reach. These partnerships have not only increased the accessibility of games but also provided in-depth analysis and features that highlight the unique stories and achievements of WNBA players.
Exceptional Talent and Player engagement
The WNBA is home to some of the world’s most talented female basketball players. Stars like Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, and Sue Bird have not only excelled on the court but also become influential figures off the court. Their engagement with fans through social media and community initiatives has helped to build a strong connection between the league and its supporters.
Looking Ahead
As the WNBA continues to gain momentum, the future looks bright for the league. With a solid foundation of talented players, strategic marketing efforts, and increasing viewership, the WNBA is poised to reach new heights in the coming years. Fans and stakeholders alike can look forward to even more exciting developments as the league strives to break barriers and set new standards in professional sports.
For more insights into the WNBA’s remarkable journey and future prospects, visit the official WNBA website.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the WNBA’s notable growth in 2024, highlighting key achievements and the factors contributing to its success. As the league continues to make waves in the sports world, fans and enthusiasts can expect even more thrilling developments in the years to come.
