The WNBA’s newest franchise, the Cleveland Sirens, has officially been introduced, marking the return of professional women’s basketball to Cleveland after a 25-year hiatus. Scheduled to debut in 2028, the team represents a fresh chapter for the city’s sports landscape and its passionate basketball community.
Drawing inspiration from the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region, the Sirens’ name pays homage to the mythology surrounding Lake Erie. According to the franchise, the “Sirens” symbolize “an unmistakable call for fans to be part of something greater than themselves.” This branding deliberately ties the team to the lakeside identity of Cleveland, reinforcing a strong local connection through both name and logo design.
A Legacy Rekindled: From Rockers to Sirens
Cleveland previously hosted the Rockers from 1997 to 2003, the city’s first professional women’s basketball team. Now, a quarter-century later, the Sirens are set to continue that legacy. Paying respect to their predecessors, the Sirens’ team colors reflect those of the Rockers, while the franchise’s introduction video features narration by Janice Braxton, a former Cleveland star and Hall of Famer.
The team will be owned and operated by Rock Entertainment Group, under the leadership of Dan Gilbert, owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Home games will take place at the Rocket Arena located in downtown Cleveland, with dedicated training facilities supporting the squad’s development.
The unveiling was accompanied by an official message on social media, emphasizing empowerment and the collective spirit of the new franchise: “We are the Cleveland Sirens. This is HER story. This is HER voice. And the world is listening.”