The WNBA has made the decision to move the preseason game between the Los Angeles Sparks and Seattle Storm from May 5 to May 4 in Edmonton due to a potential conflict with an NHL playoff game. The game will now take place at 9:30 p.m. EDT at Rogers Place. This marks the second consecutive year that the league has held a preseason game in Canada, following a successful event in Toronto last season.
In 2023, the Chicago Sky faced off against the Minnesota Lynx in Toronto, attracting a sold-out crowd and setting records for TV viewership, attendance, and merchandise sales in Canada. The success of last year’s game likely played a role in the decision to bring the WNBA back to Canada for another preseason matchup. With the popularity of basketball on the rise in Canada, the league sees the value in expanding its presence and engaging with fans north of the border.
The decision to move the game from May 5 to May 4 was made in consideration of a potential conflict with an NHL playoff game involving the Edmonton Oilers. If the Oilers were to host a Game 7 of their first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings on May 5, it could have posed a scheduling issue for the WNBA game. By moving the game up by a day, the league is able to avoid any overlap with the NHL playoffs and ensure a smooth and successful event.
Rogers Place in Edmonton will serve as the host venue for the preseason game between the Sparks and Storm. The arena is a state-of-the-art facility that has hosted a variety of sporting events, concerts, and other entertainment events since opening in 2016. With its modern amenities and central location in downtown Edmonton, Rogers Place provides an ideal setting for the WNBA game and offers fans a memorable experience.
The WNBA preseason game in Edmonton will feature two powerhouse teams in the Sparks and Storm. Both teams have experienced success in recent seasons, with the Sparks winning championships in the past and the Storm boasting a strong roster led by superstar players. The matchup between these two teams promises to be an exciting and competitive game that will showcase the talent and athleticism of the WNBA players.
Overall, the decision to move the WNBA preseason game to May 4 in Edmonton reflects the league’s commitment to expanding its reach and engaging with fans in Canada. By hosting games in Canadian cities and building on the success of previous events, the WNBA is able to grow its fan base, increase visibility, and promote the sport of women’s basketball. The upcoming game between the Sparks and Storm presents an opportunity for fans in Edmonton to witness high-level basketball action and support the continued growth of the sport in their community.
