The WNBA Expansion Draft Moves Forward, Leaving Boston Out of the Franchise Picture The WNBA held its expansion draft Friday, officially welcoming the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo as the league’s 14th and 15th franchises. This marks a significant step in the league’s growth, with plans to expand to 18 teams by 2030, including additions in Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029), and Philadelphia. However, Boston remains excluded from the WNBA’s expansion plans, a decision that has left fans and officials in the region frustrated. The league’s decision to move the Connecticut Sun to Houston, where it will be rebranded as the Houston Comets, has further complicated Boston’s chances. The Sun’s relocation was finalized after the 2026 season, with Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta acquiring the team for $300 million—a deal that fell short of a previous $325 million bid by former Milwaukee Bucks co-owner Marc Lasry to move the franchise to Hartford. The WNBA rejected both bids, citing its own governance process for relocation decisions. Boston’s attempts to secure a WNBA franchise have been met with resistance. A bid by former Celtics managing partner Steve Pagliuca to move the Sun to Boston was also rejected, with the league stating that relocation decisions are managed by its Board of Governors. Despite the city’s strong sports culture and the presence of the NBA’s Boston Celtics, the WNBA has not viewed Boston as a serious contender for a new franchise. The league’s preference for NBA owners like Fertitta reflects its strategy to align with existing franchises and leverage their resources. This approach has led to a focus on cities with established infrastructure and financial backing, leaving Boston in a backseat position.#wnba #portland_fire #toronto_tempo #tilman_fertitta #marc_lasry
