The WNBA is extending its international footprint with another preseason game set to take place in Canada, marking the second consecutive season for such an event. The Los Angeles Sparks and Seattle Storm are slated to clash at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, on May 5, adding another chapter to the league’s global outreach efforts.
This move underscores the WNBA’s commitment to expanding its reach beyond the United States, following previous preseason games in Toronto, Manchester, and Monterrey. With Edmonton chosen as the venue, the league aims to tap into the city’s rich sporting history and its deep-rooted connection to women’s basketball, epitomized by the legendary Edmonton Grads team.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbart emphasized the significance of Canada as a burgeoning market for women’s basketball, citing notable increases in TV viewership and overall interest in the sport. The decision to return to Canada reflects the league’s desire to make a lasting impact on a global scale, reinforcing its mission to promote women’s basketball worldwide.
The choice of Edmonton was influenced by the city’s enthusiastic support for professional sports, demonstrated by the success of previous NBA Canada Series games. Additionally, recent reports of a potential expansion to Toronto, spearheaded by billionaire Larry Tanenbaum, further highlight Canada’s growing prominence in the WNBA landscape.
While expansion plans are still in the works, the WNBA remains focused on cultivating new fan bases and exploring growth opportunities. The upcoming preseason game in Edmonton serves as a testament to the league’s dedication to globalizing the sport and potentially paving the way for further expansion into international markets.