Bill Haslam’s Bold Leap: Tennessee’s New WNBA Team “Tennessee Summitt” Poised to Shake Up Women’s Basketball
In a stunning move that could transform the landscape of women’s basketball, former Tennessee governor Bill Haslam has officially launched a WNBA franchise set to take root in the heart of Volunteer Country. The team, aptly named the Tennessee Summitt — in honor of the legendary coach Pat Summitt — is already sending shockwaves through the sports world.
This isn’t just another expansion. It’s a statement of legacy, power, and purpose.
With deep pockets, state backing, and a historic name that commands respect, the Tennessee Summitt is being built not just to participate — but to dominate. Haslam, whose sports influence was already felt as a stakeholder in the NFL’s Cleveland Browns and in Tennessee athletics, is now turning his full attention to elevating women’s professional basketball in the South.
Early reports suggest the franchise has secured exclusive recruitment rights to several top NCAA stars and former Lady Vols legends, sparking speculation that Knoxville could become the new epicenter of women’s hoops. Rumors are also swirling about a major television deal in the works and a recruiting war chest that could rival existing WNBA franchises.
The symbolism of the name “Summitt” isn’t lost on fans. It’s a tribute that carries weight — and pressure. Pat Summitt, the most revered figure in women’s college basketball, would undoubtedly be proud of a franchise carrying her legacy forward with such ambition and boldness.
Tennessee is no stranger to hardwood greatness. But now, with the Tennessee Summitt, it looks ready to reclaim its throne on the professional stage.
And if Bill Haslam has his way, this team won’t just make noise — it’ll make history.
