What's Happening?
The Charlotte Crown, a new women's professional basketball team, is set to begin play in the UpShot League in May 2026. The team name and logo were unveiled at Bojangles Coliseum on October 9, featuring purple colors. Trisha Stafford-Odom has been appointed as the head coach, bringing her experience from the WNBA and coaching roles at Duke, North Carolina Central, and UNC. The Crown aims to redefine dominance and break tradition, embodying the spirit of women who earn their crowns. The team will play 17 home games at Bojangles Coliseum between May and August. Season tickets are available for a $44 deposit, with single game tickets starting at $15.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of the Charlotte Crown marks the return of professional women's basketball to Charlotte, a city that has not hosted a pro women's team since the WNBA's Sting left in 2007. This development is significant for the local sports community and women's sports advocacy, providing new opportunities for female athletes to advance their careers. The UpShot League, which includes teams in Jacksonville, Savannah, and Greensboro, offers a platform for players to potentially transition to the WNBA. The Crown's establishment also reflects broader trends in sports, where new leagues are emerging to support women's professional sports.
What's Next?
The Crown's entry into the UpShot League is expected to stimulate local interest in women's basketball and could lead to further expansion of the league, with two more cities potentially joining by 2027. Zawyer Sports & Entertainment, the team owner, plans to build a new sports center with eight courts, spanning 90,000 square feet, which may receive public funding. This facility could enhance training and development for athletes and serve as a community hub for sports enthusiasts.
Beyond the Headlines
The establishment of the Charlotte Crown and the UpShot League highlights the growing recognition and investment in women's sports. It underscores the importance of providing equal opportunities and resources for female athletes, which can lead to increased visibility and support for women's sports. The team's focus on breaking tradition and redefining dominance may inspire cultural shifts in how women's sports are perceived and valued.
