The Western Hockey League (WHL) declined to address new expansion rumours involving Penticton head-on, but said its board of governors met this week to discuss "many aspects around the league's future plans."

Multiple reports over the last 24 hours suggest Penticton could be subject to WHL expansion. The South Okanagan city is currently home to the Vees of the B.C. Hockey League.

Elite Prospects' Cam Robinson and the Chek's Rick Dhaliwal both reported on X that Penticton could be awarded a WHL franchise ahead of the 2025-2026 season.

It is unknown what an expansion process with Penticton would look like, or if any other cities would be involved.

The Vees declined to comment on the reports when asked on Feb. 14.

"We continue to be focused on our season, and the final stretch drive before playoffs," a Vees spokesperson said in an email.

The WHL, meanwhile, provided Black Press with the following statement in response to the reports:

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Penticton's BCHL team plays in the 5,000-seat South Okanagan Events Centre, located about 60 kilometres south of Kelowna, home of the WHL's Rockets.

The WHL has 22 franchises across Western Canada and Washington and Oregon. It is part of the 60-team Canadian Hockey League.