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Cleveland Sirens Pay Record $250 M, Become WNBA’s 16th Franchise

8/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rock Entertainment Group announced that the Cleveland Sirens will become the WNBA’s 16th franchise, debuting in 2028.
Dan Gilbert’s ownership group paid a $250 million expansion fee, the highest ever for a WNBA team.
The Sirens will play home games at Rocket Arena and train at Cleveland Clinic Courts in Independence, Ohio.
Over 9,000 fans placed priority ticket deposits.
A $28 payment secures a season ticket.

History

Historical Context

After the WNBA’s first expansion in 1998—when the Detroit Shock and Washington Mystics joined, raising the league from eight to ten teams—the league has pursued ever larger investments. In 2028, the league will launch the Cleveland Sirens, a move that highlights the growing significant financial stakes in national women’s professional basketball.

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Story summary

Rock Entertainment Group announced that the Cleveland Sirens will become the WNBA’s 16th franchise, debuting in 2028.
Dan Gilbert’s ownership group paid a $250 million expansion fee, the highest ever for a WNBA team.
The Sirens will play home games at Rocket Arena and train at Cleveland Clinic Courts in Independence, Ohio.
Over 9,000 fans placed priority ticket deposits.
A $28 payment secures a season ticket.

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