WNBA never let them apply

A general view of the WNBA logo is seen on the court at Feld Entertainment Center on Sept. 20, 2020, in Palmetto, Fla. Julio Aguilar/Getty Images

However, the African American Sports & Entertainment Group (AASEG) in Oakland has had a different experience. Despite acknowledging the difficulty of competing against the Warriors, AASEG founder Ray Bobbitt publicly pursued a WNBA team for Oakland for over two years. He believes that Oakland still has a chance at securing a team in the future, as the league has expressed continued interest.

Recently, AASEG had a meeting with league officials and was informed that Oakland remains a candidate for future expansion opportunities. Although there are reports suggesting that the WNBA is not considering a second team in the Bay Area at this time, Bobbitt remains optimistic about Oakland’s chances.

The expansion process has raised questions about whether Oakland was ever seriously considered. The Oakland group claims they had gone several months without any communication from the WNBA before the news of the Warriors’ bid came out. According to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, the discussions with the Warriors began before the pandemic, indicating a long-standing connection. However, Engelbert declined to comment on the number of formal expansion bids received by the WNBA.

Despite the outcome, the Oakland group’s bid held symbolic significance. Led in part by former WNBA star Alana Beard, who is Black, their bid could have sent a powerful message in a league dominated by Black women. Beard expressed her support for the Warriors’ bid while emphasizing her ongoing commitment to pursuing her goal of owning a WNBA team.

As for AASEG, they continue to work on various projects in Oakland, including buying out the city’s half of the Oakland Coliseum complex and collaborating with the Oakland Roots and Soul to build a temporary stadium. Their goal is to support initiatives that contribute to Oakland’s progress and revitalization.

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Rachel Adams

Rachel Adams is your WNBA insider, delivering comprehensive coverage of women’s basketball. With a commitment to highlighting the talent and achievements of WNBA players, she provides game analysis, player profiles, and inspiring stories from the league.