WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert reveals 5 teams aiming comeback as new league additions

The WNBA is experiencing a notable surge in popularity after a remarkable 2024 draft class. The competition is drawing more attention, especially when first-time All-Stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese take the court.

With the Golden State Valkyries ready to join the league next year and the unknown Toronto team preparing to do the same in 2025, more teams could follow in their footsteps and become WNBA franchises in the next four or five years.

Speaking with reporters, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert named five teams that could make a potential comeback to the league in the following years.

"It's hard for me to comment on that 'cause there'll be rumors that we'll have 15 to 16 teams in that city, but obviously I'll just tell you the ones that have been making a play.

Obviously, the Monarchs in Sacramento, the Cleveland Rockers, the Detroit Shock, the Charlotte Sting and the Houston Comets. I think that all those cities-- the fans would love to bring a W team back," Engelbert said.

This is a promising statement, as these team had story in the league. The Houston Comets had a strong start to their journey in the league, winning the first four WNBA championships led by a legendary Big 3 of Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson and Cynthia Cooper.

They became the first dynasty in league history, doing something that not even the Michael Jordan-led Chicago Bulls or the Kobe and Shaq-led Lakers did, winning four consecutive titles.

Cathy Engelbert confirmed the WNBA was discussing adding new teams with cities

Ahead of the 2024 WNBA Draft, Cathy Engelbert opened up on the possibility of adding more franchises to the league. She noted that it wasn't an easy process, as you need infrastructure and people committed to a project to kick off whatever they have in mind.

"It's complex because you need the arena and practice facility and player housing and all the things you need, committed long-term ownership groups," Engelbert said back in April. "And so, the nice thing is we're getting a lot of calls, we're continuing to engage with cities."

"These can either take a very long time to negotiate or it can happen pretty quickly if you find the right ownership group with the right arena situation," Engelbert added.

The W is getting so much more exposure right now and with Caitlin Clark and other players bringing more new fans, they can only get better for the future.