San Jose has landed a pro women’s hockey franchise with the PWHL completing its ambitious four-team expansion process with a first entry into California. The league now has 12 teams entering its fourth season, having doubled in size since the PWHL was established in June 2023. In selecting San Jose, the PWHL adds a region with a population of about 7.6 million, strengthens its geographic footprint with a third Pacific Coast-based franchise, and enters a market with a strong history of supporting women’s sports and girls hockey development. The team will play out of the NHL home of the San Jose Sharks.

Two people with knowledge of the discussions tell The Associated Press that the PWHL is bringing women’s hockey to the Bay Area by choosing San Jose, California, as its fourth and final market during the league’s latest round of expansion. The people spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity because the league had not made an announcement. With the addition of San Jose, the PWHL increases to 12 teams, doubling the league’s size since it started in 2024 and broadening its geographical reach. The league is also adding franchises in Las Vegas, Detroit and Hamilton, Ontario.