The WNBA is coming back to Canada.
After the success of last year’s preseason game in Toronto, the league has opted to host a preseason game in Edmonton this Summer with the Seattle Storm and Los Angeles Sparks scheduled to venture north on May 5, 2024, the league announced Thursday.
“We couldn’t be more excited to bring the Sparks and Storm to Edmonton after last year’s historic game in Toronto, which showcased the incredible momentum around women’s basketball across Canada,” WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert wrote in a press release. “Fans, partners and communities across the country embraced the WNBA, setting records for viewership, merchandise sales and attendance, and we’re looking forward to the opportunity to once again showcase our league in a city with a rich sporting legacy and indelible ties to basketball through the Edmonton Grads and Canadian Women’s National Basketball Team.”
Toronto sold out its preseason game at Scotiabank Arena last spring and the hope is Edmonton will do the same this year at Rogers Arena.
“Sports teams from around the world know that Edmonton fans cheer the loudest, and I am excited for the Seattle Storm, Los Angeles Sparks and WNBA to experience the excitement in Edmonton for themselves!” Edmonton mayor Amarjeet Sohi wrote in a press release. “This game is another entry in Edmonton’s long history of celebrating women’s basketball, which includes the Edmonton Grads who continue to hold the North American record for the women’s sports team with the best winning percentage. I am excited that Edmonton has the chance to showcase our amazing city, facilities and community spirit as we host this world class sporting event.”
It’ll be a Canadian homecoming for Kia Nurse who was recently acquired by the Sparks in a trade this offseason.
Tickets for the event will go on sale on March 20.
