The WNBA is likely to award Cleveland its 16th franchise, Sports Business Journal reported this weekend, involving a bid led by Cavs owner Dan Gilbert worth as much as $250 million. A formal announcement is expected,

The WNBA is reportedly gearing up to announce its next expansion franchise, with Cleveland leading the charge.

According to Sports Business Journal sources, the WNBA is slated to return to Cleveland after the Rockers folded after the 2003 season.

CLEVELAND — There's a buzz around Cleveland following a Sports Business Journal report that the city is "likely' to be selected for a WNBA expansion team that would see the Cleveland Rockers return in 2028. However, while excitement is rising, a Cleveland Cavaliers spokesperson said no official decision has been made at this time.

The WNBA could add up to three franchises. The league reportedly applied for trademarks for the name "Cleveland Rockers," "Houston Comets," "Detroit Shock" and the "Miami Sol" as it looks to add 16th and possibly 17th and 18th franchises.

Cleveland has a 90% chance to be awarded the WNBA's 16th franchise, starting in 2028, and be named the Cleveland Rockers with a bid of about $250M. The WNBA may add two more franchises, as well, to get to 18 total.

The Rockers, a Cleveland WNBA team that folded in 2003 because of low attendance — Caitlin Clark was 1 year old — are making a comeback, according to a report published Feb. 16 in Sports Business

WNBA expected to announce expansion team in Cleveland, based at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, ahead of the 2025 season

Cleveland is on track to be awarded a WNBA expansion franchise, which is expected to join the league in the 2028 season, according to a report by Sports Business Journal.