The team will reportedly revive the “Rockers” name.
All signs are pointing to the WNBA coming back to Cleveland.
According to Sports Business Journal, after submitting a bid led by Cleveland Cavaliers team owner Dan Gilbert, Cleveland will “likely” be awarded the 16th WNBA franchise for the 2028 season. The “Rockers” team name will also reportedly be revived, along with the logo and associated artwork. Trademarks were filed for the franchise’s name and logo, which folded in 2003.
Gilbert and his investment put together a league-record $250 million bid, far surpassing the other cities that recently were awarded WNBA franchises: Golden State ($50 million), Toronto ($115 million), and Portland ($125 million).
While not finalized, it is reported that Cleveland has a “90%” chance of receiving an expansion team with an announcement that could come in March. Cleveland is one of several cities that have put together proposals for WNBA teams, including Detroit, Nashville, Houston, Miami, and Philadelphia.
Sports Business Journal reports that the Rockers would operate out of the Cavs’ current Independence practice facility, with the NBA team moving into the new practice facility that will be constructed as part of the Cuyahoga Riverfront Masterplan. The Independence practice facility has two full courts, a weight room, and a team theatre. The Rockers would play their games at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.
There has never been a better time to capitalize on the success and popularity of the WNBA. The 2024 WNBA season recorded its highest total attendance in 22 years and a 48% viewership increase year-over-year from 2023. While it didn’t work the first time through, Cleveland as a city seems better equipped to support a WNBA franchise this time around.