Cleveland is buzzing with excitement as the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) makes its long-awaited return to the city in 2028. But here’s the catch: while the Gateway Economic Development Corp. has greenlit the subleasing of Rocket Arena to the Cleveland Cavaliers for the new franchise, the deal comes with no additional funding for the cash-strapped public landlord. This means more wear and tear on the arena—but no extra revenue to cover the mounting repair costs.
In a swift five-minute special meeting on Wednesday, Gateway’s board approved the sublease, allowing the Cavaliers to rent the arena to Pinnacle Basketball Operating Company, LLC, the entity established by team owner Dan Gilbert’s Rock Entertainment Group for Cleveland’s upcoming WNBA team. This clears the way for the yet-to-be-named franchise to tip off at Rocket Arena in 2028. Gateway Board Chair Virginia “GiGi” Benjamin assured that the sublease had been thoroughly reviewed with no concerns raised by board members.
The WNBA’s return to Cleveland marks a historic moment, especially after the Cleveland Rockers folded in 2003 due to financial struggles. Fast forward to today, and the landscape of women’s sports has transformed dramatically. Interest, viewership, and talent have soared, fueled in part by stars like Caitlin Clark. Rock Entertainment Group’s record-setting $250 million bid for the league’s 16th franchise in June 2025 underscores this renewed enthusiasm.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the WNBA’s return promises to boost opportunities for fans, families, and young athletes, it also raises questions about the financial burden on Gateway. Rock Entertainment Group claims the franchise will drive economic growth for the Gateway District and Northeast Ohio through increased tax revenues, job creation, and visitor spending. However, Gateway remains responsible for repairs exceeding $500,000 and major upgrades to keep the arena competitive—with no new revenue streams in sight.
And this is the part most people miss: Gateway is already drowning in debt, relying on reserves, IOUs, and a $40 million public bailout to stay afloat. A recent assessment projected a staggering $156.7 million in repairs needed at Rocket Arena by 2034, not to mention the $260.5 million owed for Progressive Field, which Gateway also owns. While the Cavaliers and other Cleveland teams have applied for $40 million in state grants, this would only partially offset the costs, leaving a massive funding gap.
City and county officials are exploring solutions, such as levying small fees on dining, parking, and entertainment or increasing sin tax rates. But so far, these proposals remain stuck in discussion phase. Is this a sustainable model for Cleveland’s sports infrastructure, or are we setting Gateway up for failure?
As the city celebrates the WNBA’s return, the financial strain on Gateway looms large. What do you think? Are the economic benefits worth the risk, or should there be a more robust funding plan in place? Let us know in the comments—this is a conversation Cleveland can’t afford to ignore.
