WNBA plans international games in 2027 and Houston team starts

The WNBA plans to play games in other countries in 2027, a big step from playing only in the USA before. This is part of growing the league.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

Global Ambitions Taking Shape Amidst League Growth

Cathy Engelbert, the WNBA Commissioner, has signaled a significant shift in the league's strategy, indicating plans to stage games overseas as early as 2027. This move follows the recent expansion into Toronto, marking the WNBA's first franchise outside the United States. The commissioner articulated this vision as a crucial step in broadening the league's worldwide presence, a plan that appears to be a deliberate extension beyond the immediate expansion efforts.

Engelbert stated the league is actively exploring international game opportunities for 2027. This potential international play is framed as a natural progression, building upon the recent addition of a Canadian team and a broader objective to expand the league's "footprint worldwide." The input for this ambitious plan has reportedly been gathered from a wide spectrum of league stakeholders, including players, the union's executive committee, college coaches, and general managers.

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Domestic Shake-ups and Player Relations

While looking outward, the league is also navigating internal shifts. Engelbert acknowledged that the Connecticut Sun franchise is slated to relocate to Houston, rebranding as the Comets. This decision brings a historic WNBA franchise back into play. Despite the relocation, Engelbert expressed hope that fans in Connecticut would continue to support the team during its current season.

The commissioner also touched upon the league's relationship with its players, describing it as "repaired" following the finalization of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). She emphasized that the league had listened closely to player concerns, particularly regarding housing provisions, indicating a more collaborative approach to player welfare.

Officiating and Talent Focus

Efforts to elevate the on-court product are underway, with the WNBA having established an "officiating task force" and a "state-of-the-game task force" aimed at improving the overall quality of play. Concurrently, there appears to be a deliberate focus on nurturing younger talent, suggesting a long-term strategy for sustained league development.

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Engelbert Sidesteps Future Inquiries

Ahead of the 2026 WNBA Draft, Engelbert addressed various league matters. However, when questioned about her own tenure and future role, she reportedly sidestepped the inquiry, later reflecting on whether such a question would be posed to a male counterpart.

Background:

The WNBA's foray into international play and expansion signifies a period of considerable growth and strategic redirection for the league. The move to Houston marks a significant geographical shift for a franchise, while the emphasis on player relations and officiating improvements points to a desire for enhanced operational stability and competitive parity. The commissioner's statements, made during a press conference preceding the 2026 WNBA Draft, provide a glimpse into the league's forward-looking agenda, balancing domestic restructuring with global aspirations. Recent league activity includes the opening of free agency, which has seen a rapid turnover of player contracts, and the introduction of new expansion draft picks, such as Monique Billings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will the WNBA play games in other countries?
The WNBA Commissioner said they are looking at playing games outside the United States as early as 2027. This is to help the league grow around the world.
Q: What is happening with the Connecticut Sun team?
The Connecticut Sun team will move to Houston and will be called the Houston Comets. This brings a famous team name back to the league.
Q: What is the WNBA doing to improve the game?
The WNBA has created special groups to look at how games are called by referees and how the game is played. They also want to help young players get better.
Q: How is the WNBA's relationship with its players?
The WNBA Commissioner said the relationship with players is now good. This is after they agreed on a new deal that listens to players' needs, like where they live.