The City of Dallas has greenlit a monumental agreement paving the way for the Dallas Wings to call Downtown Dallas their new home. The city council’s approval of a 15-year, $19 million deal marks a significant shift as the WNBA franchise prepares to move its games from Arlington to the Dallas Memorial Auditorium within the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.

Agreement Details and Economic Impact

Dallas City Council’s endorsement of the $19 million incentives package spans three years and will be offset by revenue generated from parking at the convention center arena, along with a $2 ticket fee. Projections suggest that this move will inject over $23 million into the convention center operating fund over the span of 15 years.

It’s an exciting day for the Dallas Wings and the City of Dallas, expressed Dallas Wings President & CEO Greg Bibb following the decisive vote. The council anticipates a ripple effect of economic revitalization in the vicinity, with councilmember Tennell Atkins envisioning a scenario where downtown residents can easily walk to games and nearby restaurants.

Arena Upgrades and Expansion

The transition to Dallas Memorial Auditorium signals not just a change in location but also a significant upgrade in seating capacity. The current venue at College Park Center, located at The University of Texas at Arlington, accommodates 6,251 fans. In contrast, Dallas Memorial Auditorium boasts close to 10,000 seats and is slated for renovation as part of a broader facelift to the convention center, sanctioned by voters in 2022.

Record-Breaking Ticket Sales

The Dallas Wings’ relocation announcement comes amidst a surge in ticket sales and growing interest in women’s basketball. The franchise has witnessed a remarkable 220% increase in ticket sales revenue overall, including an astounding 1,200% surge in individual ticket sales revenue. Season ticket memberships for the 2024 season have sold out for the first time in team history.

Forward Momentum and Community Impact

Mayor Eric Johnson’s efforts to bolster Dallas’ sports landscape, coupled with the WNBA’s record-high levels of interest, have paved the way for this historic move. Wings CEO Greg Bibb emphasizes the importance of this transition amidst unprecedented levels of community support and interest in women’s sports.

As preparations for the move unfold, attention turns to readying the arena for the 2026 season opener against the Chicago Sky on May 15. With the Wings’ preseason game already sold out and regular-season matchups on the brink of reaching capacity, anticipation for the team’s downtown debut is palpable.

In the ever-evolving landscape of professional sports, the Dallas Wings’ relocation represents not just a change of venue but a testament to the enduring appeal and growing prominence of women’s basketball on the national stage.

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