WNBA in Austin? Longhorn Star Fran Harris Advocates for a Team

The WNBA, established in 1996, is experiencing significant growth, marked by increases in viewership, attendance, and media attention during its most recent season. This surge in popularity is attributed to rising stars like Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky and Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever.

Building on this momentum, the league plans to expand, adding teams in San Francisco, Portland, and Toronto over the next two seasons, bringing the WNBA to 15 franchises. Speculation suggests a 16th team may follow, with Austin emerging as a strong contender.

Leading the push to bring the WNBA to Austin is Fran Harris, a former championship-winning player with South Oak Cliff High School, the University of Texas at Austin, and the Houston Comets. Harris, also a former ESPN announcer and entrepreneur, is spearheading efforts to secure Austin as a home for a new WNBA team.

Why Austin?

“Austin is the perfect intersection of culture, sports, and community,” Harris explained. “It’s a great place to live, and it already has a strong fan base for women’s basketball.”

Harris noted that Austin’s existing support for women’s basketball, particularly at the University of Texas, sets it apart from other cities vying for a team. Her efforts to gauge local interest began in spring 2023, involving conversations with city officials, community members, and business leaders.

The WNBA’s Recent Growth

The league’s upward trajectory is partly due to the influence of college basketball stars transitioning to the professional game. Players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese bring dedicated fan bases and heightened visibility, bolstered by Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.

“NIL has transformed the game,” Harris said. “Players are now brands in themselves, with podcasts, social media presence, and endorsement deals that amplify their reach.”

This crossover appeal has sparked increased interest in the WNBA, with cities like Houston, Nashville, Philadelphia, and Kansas City also vying for a franchise.

The Financial Hurdles

Securing a WNBA team requires substantial investment, with expansion fees potentially reaching $200 million. Harris acknowledged the challenges of competing with NBA-affiliated cities but highlighted the league’s growing value.

“Expansion fees reflect the rising worth of the WNBA,” Harris said. “It’s a blessing and a curse for those of us working to bring a team to a new market.”

Building Support in Austin

To make Austin a viable contender, Harris is rallying support from local businesses and individuals. “We need partners, sponsors, advertisers, and ambassadors,” she said. “From naming rights to community partnerships, these elements will sustain a franchise in Austin.”

Harris emphasized the importance of “cheeks in the seats” and corporate backing as key factors in securing a team.

Conversations with the Spurs

While some WNBA teams are affiliated with NBA franchises, Harris noted mixed experiences from her playing days when all WNBA teams were linked to NBA counterparts.

“I’ve had meaningful conversations with the Spurs about potential partnerships,” Harris shared. “The Spurs’ culture and history of success make them an appealing ally.”

As Austin’s bid gains momentum, Harris remains optimistic that the city’s unique attributes and enthusiasm for women’s basketball will help secure a WNBA franchise.

For more updates and ways to support efforts to bring the WNBA to Austin, stay tuned to local news outlets and community announcements.