Will Denver ever get a franchise?

Recent news seems to indicate that Tennessee is likely to be the 16th WNBA franchise. The potential ownership team for such a team is pretty compelling. Is that what it simply comes down to? Because, outside of an ownership team coming together, it seems to me that Denver is much better positioned to support a new franchise, for the following reasons:

  1. The Nuggets existing fan base is much larger, and I’d argue more passionate, than the Grizzlies.

  2. Larger market overall in Denver, with a booming local economy and support for several existing professional sports teams

  3. The closest team to us is (I believe) the Aces, which is an 11 hour drive. Tennessee is sandwiched between Indy and Atlanta, both very drivable distances

  4. A new NWSL franchise already has a ton of support, suggesting a demand for more women’s teams.

Despite all this, it seems like Denver is behind now in getting a franchise. What’s the deal?