Cleveland's hoping for a new WNBA team: Remembering the excitement of the original Rockers
CLEVELAND, Ohio – Cities like Cleveland vying for a WNBA franchise are riding the wave of popularity the sport has enjoyed in recent years thanks to a burst of star power from talented young players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese and increased marketability.
But it’s not a new phenomenon.
Two decades ago, the Cleveland Rockers enjoyed success on the court and fans in the seats. The Rockers played in Gund Arena from 1997 to 2003.
Memories from that first foray into professional women’s basketball were revived this year when the Final Four brought its energy – and Clark and Reese - to the same arena.
In talking with players and coaches from those early years, a camaraderie – true friendships off the court, genuine affinity between fans and players, and lasting relationships – comes through today.
https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2024/12/clevelands-hoping-for-a-new-wnba-team-remembering-the-excitement-of-the-original-rockers.html