The Upshot women’s basketball league is expanding once again, this time bringing a new franchise to Providence, Rhode Island. The team will begin play at The Amp in May 2027, joining the league’s growing roster of clubs that aim to develop talent for the WNBA.
Local leaders praise the addition
Governor Dan McKee expressed enthusiasm for the new team, noting a personal connection through a story about his daughter’s love of basketball. He called the expansion “a win for women’s sports, a win for a capital city, and a win for Rhode Island.” Providence Mayor Brett Smiley echoed the sentiment, saying, “It is our belief and goal that this will become not just a great team but a true institution in this community.”
League context and schedule
The Upshot league currently features eight teams, with the Providence franchise becoming the eighth. Existing clubs include Tampa Bay, Baltimore, and Nashville, all slated to compete in the 2027 expansion class. The league’s season runs through August, giving fans a summer of competitive play.
Earlier this year, the league launched its inaugural season with four teams, laying the groundwork for the upcoming expansion. The addition of Providence reflects the league’s commitment to growing women’s basketball opportunities across the region.
Community involvement in naming
To foster local ownership, the ownership group is seeking community input on the team’s name. Residents can submit suggestions online, following a similar naming process already used for the league’s Tampa Bay team. This outreach underscores the league’s focus on building a strong connection between the franchise and Providence’s fans.
What the expansion means for local sports
Beyond providing a platform for aspiring athletes, the new team is expected to generate economic activity around The Amp, from game‑day ticket sales to ancillary spending at nearby businesses. The league’s emphasis on player development aligns with the broader goal of increasing visibility for women’s sports in the state.
With the upcoming season set to begin in May, Providence residents can look forward to a fresh source of family‑friendly entertainment and a chance to support local talent on their way to the professional ranks.
How to stay informed
Fans interested in following the team’s progress can visit the Upshot League’s website for schedule updates, ticket information, and the latest naming submissions. Community leaders encourage everyone to attend the inaugural games and help make the Providence franchise a lasting part of the city’s sporting landscape.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
