Cleveland Browns owners Dee Haslam and Whitney Haslam Johnson will be a part of the $75 million investment made into the WNBA recently. The women’s basketball league had a capital campaign to strengthen its revenue base and allow for the growth of the league.
The WNBA was founded in 1996 and started play in 1997. The league started with eight teams and has grown to 12 as of the 2021 season. The league has seen stars like Sheryl Swoopes, Lissa Leslie, Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird and many others excel during their time there.
With the “largest-ever capital raised for a women’s sports property,” the league is hoping to continue its growth. The Browns announced their ownership’s involvement in a press release:
“We are thrilled to be a part of the WNBA and supporting the continued growth of women’s sports,” Whitney Johnson said on behalf of Haslam Sports Group. “Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s vision for the league is strategic and impressive, and we are excited about what the future holds for the WNBA. Representation can play such an important role in inspiring people to reach their full potential, and the profound impact sports can have on individuals and community is something our family and the Haslam Sports Group will always value and look to support.”
The release also notes the ownership group’s investment in local communities including young women’s flag football.