What's Happening?
The WNBA has expanded to include two new teams, the Portland Fire and the Toronto Tempo, who have each selected 11 players in the recent expansion draft. The Portland Fire, returning to the league after a 24-year absence, chose veteran forward Bridget
Carleton as their first pick. Meanwhile, the Toronto Tempo, marking Canada's first WNBA team, selected guard Julie Allemand with their initial pick. The expansion draft allowed each team to alternate picks over two rounds, with the Tempo opting for the No. 6 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft over the top expansion draft pick. The draft process involved strategic selections, with teams protecting five players each, though these lists were not disclosed publicly. The Chicago Sky made trades with both new teams to prevent their players from being selected, resulting in the Fire and Tempo receiving additional college draft picks.
Why It's Important?
The addition of the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo to the WNBA signifies a significant expansion of the league, increasing its reach and market presence. This move not only brings professional women's basketball back to Portland but also introduces the sport to a new audience in Canada, potentially boosting the league's international profile. The expansion draft and subsequent player selections are crucial for the new teams to establish competitive rosters, which could influence the dynamics of the league. The involvement of free agents and the upcoming college draft further complicate team strategies, as over 80% of players are free agents this year. This expansion reflects the growing popularity and commercial viability of women's sports, offering new opportunities for players and increasing the league's fan base.
What's Next?
Following the expansion draft, the next steps for the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo involve preparing for the upcoming WNBA season. The college draft is scheduled for April 13, followed by the opening of training camps on April 19. The season is set to begin on May 8. Both teams will need to finalize their rosters, potentially through free agency, although the exact timing for free agency remains uncertain. The new teams will aim to build chemistry and establish their presence in the league, while existing teams adjust to the expanded competition. The success of these new franchises could influence future expansion decisions and the overall growth trajectory of the WNBA.
