In its 28th year, the WNBA continues to expand.
On Thursday, the association announced that Toronto will be awarded its own franchise. This will be the WNBA's first franchise outside the United States, the first in Canada and the 14th WNBA franchise after the Golden State Valkyries, who will have their inaugural season next year.
WNBA Toronto already has a steady support system.
Canadian rapper Drake, Philadelphia 76ers guard Kyle Lowry, Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri and forward Scottie Barnes were all in attendance at the announcement.
Word to the 6ix 🇨🇦
— WNBA (@WNBA) May 23, 2024
Drake, Kyle Lowry, and Masai Ujiri are in the building to celebrate the Toronto expansion team! pic.twitter.com/U0ouEoHPkb
Following the announcement of the league expansion, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow decreed May 23 "WNBA Day in the City."
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has declared May 23rd as WNBA Day in the city 🤯🔥#WNBAToronto #UpNext pic.twitter.com/pFthMcaKL7
— WNBA (@WNBA) May 23, 2024
The WNBA's Toronto expansion team is set to play in the 2026 season.