With the WNBA returning in 2028, Cleveland is reclaiming its place in women’s basketball while reshaping what access, equity, and representation look like in sports.

Rock Entertainment Group announced June 30th that he company, which also owns the Cleveland Cavs, has won the WNBA's 16th franchise.

Pro women's basketball is officially coming back to Cleveland. State of play: Cleveland has been awarded the 16th WNBA franchise and will begin play in 2028, the league announced Monday. The team will be owned and operated by Dan Gilbert's Rock Entertainment Group and play its home games at Rocket Arena.

LeBron James declared one aim above all others when he returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014. "My goal is still to win as many titles as possible, no question," he explained in his now famous Sports Illustrated letter proclaiming his homecoming.

The Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James have a long history in two separate stints with each other. Many have dreamed about the idea of James finishing out his NBA career with the franchise that drafted him.

NBA reporter Kevin O'Connor believes Cavaliers should call Lakers and attempt another LeBron James reunion via trade