Progressive Wins Dual Jersey Patch for Cleveland WNBA Team

From the Original Rockers to a New Franchise

Cleveland’s return to women’s basketball will not kick off until May 2028, giving the city ample time to build a robust foundation. The franchise traces its roots to the Cleveland Rockers, one of the original WNBA clubs from 1997 that folded in 2003. On Tuesday, the expansion team secured a landmark sponsorship that positions Progressive as the first brand to occupy both jersey patch locations in league history. With 9,000 season‑ticket deposits already collected, the community’s enthusiasm is already evident.

Progressive’s Dual‑Patch Agreement

Progressive Insurance will appear on the upper left corner and the large spot beneath the numbers on Cleveland’s jerseys, marking a first‑of‑its‑kind deal in the WNBA. The deal aligns with Progressive’s Cleveland ties—its corporate headquarters sit in nearby Mayfield Heights, Ohio, and the firm has held naming rights to the city’s baseball stadium since 2008. Chief Marketing Officer Mari Pumarejo highlighted the partnership’s focus on supporting women’s sports, the local community, and the city’s values. Meanwhile, CEO Tricia Griffith is also an investor in the Cleveland Astra, a women’s soccer team slated to debut in 2028.

Listening Tour and Fan Engagement

President of Business Operations Allison Howard described a year‑long “listening tour” aimed at shaping the new franchise responsibly. The process has drawn stories from fans who previously traveled hours to watch women’s basketball, underscoring the emotional connection to the sport. Howard emphasized that the team is taking its time to ensure the right approach, even extending the timeline from an initial two‑year plan. The ongoing feedback loop is expected to influence everything from the team name to community outreach initiatives.

Looking Ahead: Name, Event, and Timeline

The team’s name is slated for release within the next couple of months, and owner Dan Gilbert’s Rock Entertainment Group has slated a special event for August 4 at Rocket Arena to further engage fans. The jersey sponsor announcement is just the first of several deals anticipated over the next 12 months as the organization solidifies its identity. With a clear vision, strong local backing, and a clear schedule, Cleveland’s WNBA expansion is well‑positioned to launch in May 2028 with both on‑court competition and community momentum.