As the WNBA’s rapid growth sparks expansion bids across the country, Tennessee is making its move. With new teams set to debut in Golden State, Toronto, and Portland, the league’s next chapter is already unfolding—but one state is looking to leave its own mark in a way that could redefine its basketball legacy. Backed by championship pedigree and some of the biggest names in sports, a game-changing effort is now underway in Tennessee.
According to Knox News journalist Cora Hall, a Tennessee-based team is vying for an expansion bid, and it’s backed by a powerhouse group of sports icons! This could be a game-changer for the league as it continues to grow.
Exciting news out of Nashville this morning: there’s officially a bid for a WNBA team, which would be named the Tennessee Summitt.
Lady Vols legend Candace Parker and Peyton Manning are part of a star-studded ownership group led by Bill and Crissy Haslamhttps://t.co/vJqEWwvn66
— Cora Hall (@corahalll) January 30, 2025
A consortium led by Bill and Crissy Haslam has placed a bid for a franchise that could be named the Tennessee Summit. The ownership group is also rumored to include WNBA legend Candace Parker and football legend Peyton Manning! Bill Haslam shared his excitement, saying, “We believe a WNBA team, based in Nashville, could serve as a beacon for girls and women, young and old, across Tennessee, while also creating more opportunities for sports fans as our community continues to grow. In building this new franchise, we will take inspiration from the Nashville Predators and its ‘community-first’ approach to running the business. This WNBA team will establish itself as a mainstay in Nashville and communities throughout the state of Tennessee.”
This is a developing story…
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