In recent years, the WNBA has seen a significant investment in state-of-the-art practice facilities, reflecting the league’s growth and the increasing commitment to providing athletes with top-tier resources. Here’s an overview of the latest developments:

Las Vegas Aces

In April 2023, Aces made history by unveiling a 64,000-square-foot practice facility and team headquarters in Henderson, Nevada. This landmark development marked the first complex built solely for a WNBA team. The facility boasts amenities such as practice courts, training rooms, weight rooms, hydrotherapy spaces, and an on-site daycare center, setting a new standard for professional women’s sports facilities and addressing concerns brought up with the old collective bargaining agreement. 

Seattle Storm

Following suit, the Seattle Storm opened their own dedicated training facility in April 2024. Located in Seattle’s Interbay neighborhood, the $64 million, 53,000-square-foot building features two practice courts, high-performance areas, therapy pools, and expansive locker rooms and lounge areas for players.

Phoenix Mercury

In July 2023, the Phoenix Mercury unveiled a 58,000-square-foot performance center designed specifically for the team. The facility includes two full-sized basketball courts, a fitness center, hydrotherapy facilities, a film room, and a spacious locker room, family lounge and a full kitchen with a private chef! Named after the WNBA’s all-time scoring leader, 3 time champion and 6 time Olympian the Diana Taurasi courts highlights the organization’s dedication to supporting its players with top-tier amenities.

Chicago Sky & Indiana Fever

The Chicago Sky, in partnership with the Village of Bedford Park, announced plans in July 2024 to construct a new, dedicated WNBA performance center. Scheduled for completion by December 2025, the $38 million facility will be over 40,000 square feet and feature multiple regulation-sized courts, 24-hour year-round access, and community partnerships with The Obama Foundation and YMCA of Metro Chicago.

In January 2025, Pacers Sports & Entertainment unveiled plans for a $78 million exclusive sports performance center for the Indiana Fever. Set to be completed by 2027, the 108,000-square-foot facility will be the largest practice facility among WNBA teams, underscoring the organization’s commitment to excellence and player development.

Portland’s New WNBA Team

Looking ahead, Portland’s new WNBA team, awarded in September 2024, will share a state-of-the-art training facility with the Portland Thorns of the NWSL. Announced in February 2025, the $150 million performance center is set to open before the 2026 WNBA season. Located on 12 acres in Hillsboro, the facility will provide amenities including locker rooms, lounges, soccer fields, basketball courts, and training areas, marking a significant investment in women’s sports infrastructure.

These developments reflect a broader trend of increased investment in women’s professional basketball, providing athletes with the resources and facilities necessary to excel at the highest levels!