Detroit approved for 2029 return to WNBA basketball

The WNBA and NBA Board of Governors approved expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia; Cleveland will begin play in 2028, Detroit in 2029 and Philadelphia in 2030.

The WNBA and NBA Board of Governors on Thursday formally approved creating expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia. The approvals set start years for each city. Cleveland will begin play in 2028. Detroit is slated to return to the league in 2029 and Philadelphia is scheduled for 2030. Key details: - The WNBA and NBA Board of Governors formally approved expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia. - Cleveland is scheduled to begin play in 2028. - Detroit is scheduled to begin play in 2029. - Philadelphia is scheduled to begin play in 2030. - An earlier announcement had identified 2029 as the expected start year for Detroit. Summary: The approvals add three new WNBA franchises and set a staggered schedule for their league debuts. Detroit is scheduled to rejoin the WNBA in 2029. Undetermined at this time.