Charlotte, a city with a rich history in sports, is once again stepping up to the forefront by welcoming a new professional women’s basketball team as part of the inaugural UpShot League. This development not only revives the spirit of women’s basketball in the Queen City but also marks a significant step forward for women’s sports in the region.
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The Birth of the UpShot League
Founded by Zawyer Sports & Entertainment, the UpShot League aims to provide a platform for elite women’s basketball athletes, coaches, and front office personnel. With a mission to uplift, elevate, and develop the sport, the league is set to change the landscape of professional women’s basketball in the United States. The league’s inaugural season is scheduled to tip off in May 2026, with Charlotte being one of the four original cities chosen for this groundbreaking venture.
Charlotte’s Team – UpShot Charlotte
- Team Name: Currently known as “UpShot Charlotte“, fans have the unique opportunity to suggest and vote on the official team name, creating a community-driven identity.
- Venue: The team will play its home games at the historic Bojangles Coliseum, bringing high-level basketball back to one of Charlotte’s iconic venues.
- Ownership: The team is under the ownership of Zawyer Sports, which also owns the Charlotte Checkers and Gastonia Ghost Peppers, among other teams. Notable figures in this ownership group include former NASCAR drivers Kevin Harvick and Regan Smith, as well as NFL legend Tim Tebow and former Carolina Panthers player J.J. Jansen.
Impact on Charlotte
The introduction of UpShot Charlotte is not just about sports; it’s about community, empowerment, and economic growth:
- Community Engagement: With fan involvement in naming the team, the league is fostering a sense of ownership and pride among Charlotte residents.
- Empowerment: By providing opportunities for women in basketball, UpShot aims to inspire the next generation of female athletes in the city.
- Economic Boost: The games at Bojangles Coliseum are expected to bring in fans from across the region, boosting local businesses and tourism.
The Schedule and Gameplay
- Games: Each team in the UpShot League will play a 40-game regular season, split evenly between home and away games. This schedule ensures a robust season filled with competitive basketball.
- Inaugural Season: While the excitement builds, fans can look forward to the first game in May 2026, paving the way for a memorable season.
Looking Back to Move Forward
Charlotte once hosted the Charlotte Sting, which was one of the original teams of the WNBA from 1997 to 2007. The arrival of UpShot Charlotte is seen by many as a resurgence of professional women’s basketball in the city, drawing on the legacy of the Sting while forging a new path.
League Commissioner and Vision
Donna Orender, former WNBA president, has taken the helm as the commissioner of the UpShot League. Her experience and passion for women’s basketball are pivotal in shaping the league into a successful and sustainable entity. Orender’s vision includes not just competitive play but also community involvement, player development, and the growth of women’s sports culture in America.
Conclusion
Charlotte’s embrace of the UpShot League is a testament to the city’s commitment to sports and its support for women’s athletics. With the community’s backing, UpShot Charlotte is poised to be more than just a basketball team; it’s set to be a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the talent and potential within women’s basketball. Fans across Charlotte and beyond can now look forward to cheering on their new team, contributing to the narrative of women’s sports in a city that’s always been about leading the charge in sports excellence.
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