Kylie Kelce has a message for the future WNBA franchise set to launch in Philadelphia.
On the July 3 episode of her podcast,”Not Gonna Lie,” where she shares her perspectives on parenting, pop culture, social media trends and sports, among other things, the wife of former Eagles legend Jason Kelce revealed a desire to invest in the ‘W.’ Literally.
“I think that there’s a little bit of controversy about the who’s going to own the team” she said, adding: “I’m just saying it would be really cool if it was female-owned. But if you need additional female investors, maybe call me.”
Kelce had previously spoken to basketball legend Dawn Staley, who was born in Philly, about the possibility of a WNBA team coming to the city. Staley, currently the women’s head basketball coach at South Carolina, had told Kelce at the time that ownership was more appealing to her than coaching if and when the new franchise arrived.
Kylie Kelce Says She’s Looking Forward to Investing in the WNBA in More Ways Than One
The mom of four girls, Kelce says she’s planning on taking them to games when the new franchise arrives.
“Philadelphia is a passionate fan base. I’m so excited for a WNBA team to be able to experience that level of passion,” she added. “I am very excited to have the opportunity to not only go and watch WNBA games right here in Philadelphia, but also to bring my girlies because they are due to be giants. And I say that being a giant myself — maybe at least one of them will be into basketball.”
Kylie did more than just joke on air—she opened the door to a serious conversation about women stepping into financial and ownership roles. Her injection of optimism hints at an appetite—and blueprint—for more women to join the league’s investor ranks. It’ll be fascinating to see if she and Staley do become involved.
More on the WNBA’s Expansion: A City-by-City Look
The WNBA is experiencing an unprecedented surge in growth right now, with the league expanding from 12 teams in 2024 to a projected 18 franchises by 2030. The league’s financial momentum is also reflected in media rights: the ‘W’ recently secured a landmark 11-year, $2.2 billion broadcast deal, ensuring long-term visibility and stability. Here’s a look at the three cities slated to get new WNBA franchises:
1. Cleveland (Debut: 2028)
The Cleveland team will re-enter the league as a revival of the former Rockers legacy. Playing in Rocket Arena with capacity for nearly 19,500 fans, this marks a resurgence for a market dormant since 2003.
2. Detroit (Debut: 2029)
Likely reviving the historic “Shock” name, the new team will play at Little Caesars Arena, continuing Detroit’s legacy of success (three WNBA championships when the Shock were active).
“This is a huge win for Detroit and the WNBA,” Detroit Pistons Owner and Platinum Equity Chairman Tom Gores said, per the league’s website. “Detroit played a key role in the league’s early growth, and we’re proud to reignite that legacy as the WNBA ascends to new heights.”
3. Philadelphia (Debut: 2030)
Philadelphia’s entry will be the first-ever WNBA team in the city. Spearheaded by 76ers owner Josh Harris and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the franchise will use the upcoming South Philly arena shared by local NBA and NHL. With Kelce’s admitted interest in female investment, this expansion presents an opportunity to build a diverse ownership model reflective of the local community.
ESPN’s WNBA viewership rose by 170% in the 2024 season, averaging 1.2 million viewers per game, thanks in large part to rising stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. The league’s newest expansion teams are strategically partnered with NBA ownership groups — Cleveland’s Cavaliers, Detroit’s Pistons, and Philadelphia’s 76ers — so they can potentially tap into pre-existing fan bases, as well. It’s an exciting time for fans of the league, to be sure.
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