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Investment group proposes $350M plan for new WNBA team in Vancouver

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 12:40 PM

Last updated Sep 25, 2026

Investment group proposes $350M plan for new WNBA team in Vancouver

Summary

A Canadian investment group led by Bill Bakk is proposing a $350 million plan to bring a new WNBA team to Vancouver, aiming for a 2031 launch. The league has announced its path to 18 franchises, with Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia set for expansion in the coming years. Bakk has been in talks with owners and league insiders, expressing confidence in the viability of the Vancouver market. The decision on expansion will ultimately rest with the new WNBA commissioner following Cathy Engelbert's retirement announcement.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Bill Bakk heads the Vancouver investment group for the WNBA expansion.
•Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia are set for new teams by 2030.
•The proposed Vancouver team aims for a 2031 launch.
•Expansion decisions await the appointment of a new WNBA commissioner.

Latest Updates

12:40 PMYahoo Sports — Former Deloitte executive launches $350M plan for new WNBA team

What they're saying

"
Quietly working behind the scenes for over a year, a Canadian investment group is putting together a $350 million framework for a WNBA team. The WNBA’s path to 18 franchises is officially set, with three markets lined up.
— Yahoo Sports

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