Cleveland to bid for WNBA team. City has strong history with women's hoops, Rockers once in league

CLEVELAND (AP) — Cleveland wants back in the WNBA game.

With interest in women's pro basketball surging, Rock Entertainment Group, which is also tied into the NBA's Cavaliers, is trying to bring a WNBA expansion team to Cleveland.

“It has long been woven into our mission to utilize our platform to unite our community in ways that drive equal opportunities across the board,” said Nic Barlage, CEO of the Cavs, Rock Entertainment Group and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. "To that end, we are actively pursuing bringing a WNBA expansion team to Cleveland.

“Cleveland’s vibrant ecosystem of world-class assets, passionate and engaged sports fans, coupled with a culture that has allowed professional sports to thrive, make our Team and city uniquely positioned to provide an ideal home for the W’s next franchise.”