The Growth and Evolution of the WNBA

Olympic 1996 Women's Basketball Team

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) was founded in 1996 and started its inaugural season in 1997. With just eight teams, the league set out to grow the sport of women’s basketball and inspire a new era of fans. From these humble beginnings, the league has blossomed into a dynamic organization with global reach. New teams, international talent, and rule innovations have added depth and excitement. As it continues to grow and evolve, the WNBA promises a future filled with more milestones and achievements.

The Original 8 WNBA Teams

The league launched its inaugural season in 1997, with the original 8 WNBA teams strategically located in cities that already hosted NBA franchises. This approach leveraged established basketball infrastructures, fan support, and marketing networks. This provided a strong start, but it was the rise of extraordinary athletes and their performances that propelled the league’s growth. … Read more