In a significant move for women’s professional sports, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has announced the addition of its 15th franchise in Portland, set to debut in 2026. This marks the third new team to be introduced in the league’s recent expansion strategy. The announcement, made by WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, highlights not only the growth of the league but also the potential for a revival of professional women’s basketball in a city once home to the Portland Fire, which ceased operations in 2002. The establishment of this new franchise is a strong statement reflecting the WNBA’s commitment to expanding its footprint and fostering community engagement.
The Portland WNBA team will be owned by RAJ Sports, an investment firm with a clear focus on sports enterprises. Leadership will be directed by Lisa Bhathal Merage, who will serve as the controlling owner and governor. The decision to actively involve the community in the naming process of the franchise is a positive approach that acknowledges local basketball culture and fosters community bonds. Beyond just a name, this initiative aims to create a sense of ownership and belonging within the community.
Portland’s new franchise will play its home games at the Moda Center, a venue already familiar to basketball fans as the home of the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers. However, the commitment extends beyond just the game day experience. According to Alex Bhathal, the alternate governor for the team, there is a clear commitment to building a dedicated practice facility and a training center for the Portland Thorns, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team also owned by RAJ Sports. Such infrastructure investment is essential, as it provides players with the facilities they need to train efficiently and showcase their talent, ultimately contributing to the league’s growth.
The decision to expand into Portland is indicative of the broader upward trend within women’s sports. The WNBA is experiencing a surge in popularity, with record attendance and viewership numbers in the current season. This growing interest is further emphasized by the recent announcement of new teams set to join the league, including the Golden State Valkyries in 2025 and a franchise in Toronto in 2026. The momentum from these expansions reflects a cultural shift towards increased recognition and support for women’s athletics.
The introduction of the Portland franchise resonates not only with basketball enthusiasts but also with advocates for women’s sports more broadly. The upcoming seasons promise heightened competition and excitement, particularly with a promising mix of established stars like A’ja Wilson and emerging talents such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Furthermore, the recent enhancement of team travel through leaguewide chartered flights signals a progressive shift towards better conditions for players, contributing to the league’s attractiveness.
As the WNBA positions itself for the future, the addition of the Portland franchise stands as a beacon of progress—both for the league and for women’s sports as a whole. The next few years will be pivotal, showcasing how this growth can be sustained and how communities can unite to support these athletes.
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