Cleveland Sirens announced as new WNBA expansion team

The WNBA has announced the Cleveland Sirens as its 16th expansion team, scheduled to begin competition in the 2028 season. The team was officially unveiled at Rocket Arena on August 4, 2026.

The Sirens' branding incorporates elements of Greek mythology and local imagery. The team colors, sky blue and royal blue, are intended to reference Lake Erie and pay tribute to the former WNBA franchise, the Cleveland Rockers, which operated in the city from 1997 until 2003.

Sirens President Allison Howard noted that the name and symbolism of the figure represent progress and forward motion for the new franchise.