WNBA Founder Celebrates 25 Years of Basketball History
From Concept to a Booming League
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. The league was founded in 1996 as a joint venture between the NBA and several women's basketball organizations. Since then, it has become one of North America's most popular professional sports leagues.
Key Milestones in the WNBA's History
Some of the key milestones in the WNBA's history include:
- 1996: The NBA's board of governors approves the concept of the WNBA.
- 1997: The WNBA holds its inaugural season with eight teams.
- 1999: The WNBA All-Star Game is held for the first time.
- 2000: The WNBA Finals are televised nationally for the first time.
- 2002: The WNBA expands to 14 teams.
- 2007: The WNBA Finals are played in a best-of-five format for the first time.
- 2010: The WNBA expands to 12 teams.
- 2013: The WNBA Finals are played in a best-of-seven format for the first time.
- 2016: The WNBA celebrates its 20th anniversary.
- 2019: The WNBA expands to 12 teams.
- 2020: The WNBA season is postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 2021: The WNBA season resumes and the league celebrates its 25th anniversary.
The WNBA has made great strides in its 25-year history. The league has increased its popularity, expanded its reach, and provided opportunities for women basketball players to compete at the highest level. The WNBA is poised for continued growth and success in the years to come.
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