Tasmania to Join WNBL in 2026-27, League Pursues Tenth Franchise
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Hobart, Australia – In a landmark decision for Australian women’s basketball, the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) will welcome a new team based in Tasmania for the 2026-27 season. This expansion marks the league’s growth to nine teams and signals a renewed commitment to national representation [[1]].
Expansion Details and Timeline
The license for the Tasmanian franchise was secured by the Tasmania jackjumpers, the triumphant men’s National Basketball League (NBL) team established in 2021. The JackJumpers quickly gained a dedicated fanbase, culminating in a championship win in 2024 and consistently selling out home games. Despite sharing management with the men’s team, the women’s team will operate under a distinct brand identity.
The new team will share facilities with the JackJumpers in Hobart, with plans to host at least half of their home games in northern Tasmania. Health insurance provider St Lukes has already been confirmed as the team’s foundation principal partner. This expansion represents the first time Tasmania will have a WNBL team since the Hobart Islanders concluded their ten-year run in 1996.
did You Know? The JackJumpers’ rapid success in the NBL demonstrates the strong appetite for basketball in Tasmania, paving the way for this WNBL expansion.
League Growth and Investment
WNBL CEO Jennie Sager emphasized the opportune timing for Tasmania’s return, citing “new energy, investment, and passion” within the league. She expressed gratitude to the JackJumpers for their commitment to the future of women’s basketball. Christine Finnegan, CEO of the Tasmanian JackJumpers, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the organization’s excitement in building a “successful and sustainable women’s program.”
The WNBL is together launching a search for a tenth team, with a particular focus on attracting a franchise in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, given the city’s hosting of the 2032 Olympic Games. The league is seeking partners who share its vision for long-term growth and sustainability.
Key Expansion Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Tasmania Expansion License Awarded | August 2025 |
| WNBL Season with Nine Teams Begins | 2026-27 |
| search for Tenth Franchise Launched | August 2025 |
This expansion follows important investment in the WNBL, including a new Collective Bargaining agreement that more than doubles the league’s minimum wage and achieves pay parity with the NBL. A consortium led by the NBL and Wollemi Capital Group (WCG) acquired a 78% stake in the WNBL in November 2024, taking full operational control on April 2, 2025 [[3]].
Pro Tip: The WNBL’s strategic partnership with the NBL and WCG signals a commitment to professionalizing the league and attracting greater investment.
Broader Sporting Landscape in Tasmania
Tasmania’s growing prominence in Australian sports is further underscored by the upcoming entry of a Tasmanian team into the Australian Football League (AFL) in 2028. This demonstrates the state’s increasing capacity to support and sustain professional sporting franchises.
What impact will increased investment and visibility have on the future of women’s basketball in Australia? And how will the Tasmanian franchise contribute to the WNBL’s overall growth and success?
WNBL: A History of Growth and Innovation
Founded in 1981, the WNBL has been a cornerstone of Australian women’s sport for over four decades. The league has consistently showcased elite talent and played a vital role in developing the next generation of basketball stars. The recent investment and expansion plans represent a new era for the WNBL, positioning it for continued growth and success in the years to come. The league’s commitment to pay equity and increased investment in broadcast and marketing are crucial steps in elevating the profile of women’s basketball in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the WNBL? The WNBL is Australia’s premier women’s basketball league, featuring eight teams competing for the championship title.
- When will the Tasmanian team join the WNBL? The Tasmanian franchise will begin competing in the 2026-27 WNBL season.
- Who owns the WNBL? A consortium led by the NBL and Wollemi Capital Group (WCG) owns 78% of the WNBL, with Basketball australia retaining a minority stake.
- Where will the Tasmanian team play its home games? The team will share facilities with the Tasmania JackJumpers in Hobart and play at least half of their games in northern Tasmania.
- What is the WNBL’s vision for the future? The WNBL aims to become a strong, sustainable league that is a source of pride for decades to come, with plans to expand to ten teams.
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