In a powerful statement reaffirming her commitment to the growth of women’s professional basketball, Dawn Staley has once again voiced her strong support for bringing a WNBA franchise to Philadelphia. However, Staley made it clear that her vision goes beyond just coaching a team — she wants true ownership and control.
Dawn Staley, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in women’s basketball, has long been an advocate for expanding the WNBA’s reach and visibility. Known for her leadership both on the court as a player and on the sidelines as a coach, Staley’s passion for the game and her dedication to empowering female athletes have made her a natural spokesperson for the league’s growth.
During a recent interview, Staley emphasized the importance of establishing a WNBA team in Philadelphia, a city with a rich basketball culture and a vibrant sports fan base. “Philadelphia deserves a WNBA team,” she said. “It’s about more than just having a team here; it’s about creating ownership, investing in the community, and making sure the women’s game has a lasting impact.”
While many might have expected Staley to express interest in coaching a new Philadelphia franchise, she surprised many by stating she does not want the coaching position. Instead, Staley stressed that her desire is to be involved at the ownership level — a role that would allow her to influence the franchise’s direction and legacy more profoundly.
“This isn’t just about coaching,” Staley explained. “I want to have a seat at the table where decisions are made — where the future of the team, the league, and the players is shaped. Ownership means responsibility, influence, and the power to build something meaningful for generations.”
Her comments come amid increasing calls from players, coaches, and fans for greater investment in the WNBA, both financially and structurally. The league has grown steadily in popularity, but advocates argue that expanding ownership opportunities for women, especially women of color, remains crucial for the sport’s continued success.
Philadelphia, with its passionate sports community and history of supporting basketball at all levels, is seen as an ideal market for the WNBA’s next expansion. Staley’s involvement — whether as an owner or a key figure behind the scenes — would undoubtedly add significant credibility and momentum to the effort.
As the WNBA continues to carve out a larger place in American sports culture, voices like Dawn Staley’s remind us that progress isn’t just about more teams or better players; it’s about building structures of power and ownership that ensure lasting equality and opportunity.
For now, Staley’s call is clear: Philadelphia deserves a WNBA team, and she wants to help lead it from the top, not just the sidelines.
