PWHL Expands to San Jose: A New Era for Women’s Hockey in the Bay Area

The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is officially heading to the West Coast. In a landmark announcement, league officials confirmed that San Jose, California, will serve as the home for the league’s twelfth franchise, set to begin play in the 2026-27 season.

The decision to place a team at the SAP Center—the established home of the NHL’s San Jose Sharks—marks a significant milestone in the league’s rapid growth. By adding a Northern California market, the PWHL continues to broaden its geographic footprint, bringing elite professional women’s hockey to a region that has quickly become a premier destination for major professional sports.

Strategic Growth and League Expansion

San Jose represents the final addition to the league’s second wave of expansion. This strategic growth follows the introduction of teams in Detroit, Las Vegas, and Hamilton. Since its inaugural 2024 season, which featured six teams based in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Boston, New York, and Minnesota, the PWHL has doubled its total number of franchises to twelve.

The league’s expansion reflects a broader effort to capitalize on the increasing popularity of women’s sports across North America. By selecting markets with existing hockey infrastructure and strong local support, the PWHL aims to ensure long-term stability and fan engagement. The SAP Center, currently undergoing significant renovations to modernize its facilities, is expected to provide a top-tier environment for players and fans alike.

Key Takeaways: What to Know About the Expansion

• New Franchise Location: San Jose, California, will host the league’s twelfth team.
• Timeline: The new franchise is scheduled to take the ice for the 2026-27 season.
• Venue: The team will play at the SAP Center.
• League Size: With this addition, the PWHL now comprises twelve teams across Canada and the United States.

A Competitive Landscape

As the PWHL expands, the level of competition continues to intensify. The league, which is owned and operated by the Mark Walter Group, has distinguished itself through unique rules, including a 3-2-1-0 points system, specific penalty protocols, and a commitment to high-level broadcast accessibility across Canada and the United States.

The arrival of a San Jose franchise coincides with a period of high excitement for the league, as teams currently compete for the Walter Cup. The addition of a West Coast presence is expected to further diversify the league’s talent pool and fan base, cementing the PWHL’s status as the premier destination for the world’s best women hockey players.

Looking Ahead

The inclusion of San Jose into the PWHL portfolio is more than just a logistical update; it is a signal of the league’s sustained momentum. As the organization prepares for the 2026-27 season, all eyes will be on how this new market integrates into the existing competitive framework. With a dedicated home at the SAP Center and a growing national profile, the San Jose franchise is positioned to play a vital role in the next chapter of professional women’s ice hockey.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the San Jose team begin playing?
The team is slated to join the league for the 2026-27 season.

How many teams are now in the PWHL?
With the addition of the San Jose franchise, the league has reached its goal of twelve teams.

Where will the San Jose team play its home games?
The team will be based at the SAP Center in San Jose, California.