The WNBA announced Thursday that it awarded Toronto its first international franchise, which is set to start playing in 2026.
Toronto will be the women’s basketball league's 14th member and will play most of its home games at the 8,700-seat Coca-Cola Coliseum at Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto.
"Growing internationally, I've been trying to think through next steps on a global platform," WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert told The Associated Press.
Larry Tanenbaum, chairman of the ownership group for the NBA's Toronto Raptors, is paying $115 million for the Toronto team.
"Today is a game-changing day, not only for women's basketball but also for sports in Canada," he said. "This franchise will be Canada's team, and we are so excited to unite the country and inspire pride and passion in fans from coast to coast."
Tanenbaum said the team will be playing some games in Montreal and Vancouver.
Engelbert said WNBA exhibition games held in Canada during the last two seasons demonstrated the country had a high viewership of women’s basketball.
Canadian officials expressed support for the incoming WNBA team.
"The WNBA will be a fantastic addition to Ontario's dynamic sports landscape, helping to increase tourism and inspire more women and girls to get involved in basketball," Ontario Premier Doug Ford said Thursday.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the deal “will give opportunities to our remarkable athletes across the country, and on the biggest stage."
"I can't wait to see our Canadian women win on the court,” he added.
Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press and Reuters.
