The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has recently taken a significant step in its expansion journey by announcing the establishment of its 15th franchise in Portland. This ambitious initiative reflects the league’s dedication to the growth of women’s professional basketball and underscores the increasing popularity of women’s sports nationwide. Commencing play in 2026, this new team, although yet unnamed, promises to revitalize Portland’s basketball scene, which had seen a WNBA franchise fold in 2002.
The ownership of the new Portland team will be spearheaded by RAJ Sports, an investment firm with a strong focus on sports-related ventures. Lisa Bhathal Merage has been designated as the controlling owner and governor for the franchise. This strategic ownership is crucial, as it not only brings financial backing but also a commitment to fostering community engagement. Bhathal Merage announced in a recent press conference that the franchise will actively solicit feedback from the local community for its naming, which signals a strong desire for local representation and investment in the team’s identity.
The return of a WNBA team to Portland is not just an event for sports fans; it symbolizes the city’s rich history within the women’s sports movement. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert remarked on Portland’s passionate basketball culture, highlighting the city as a vital locus for fan engagement. Connecting with the community effectively will be paramount for the franchise’s success, and the team’s ownership appears well aware of the need to cultivate this relationship from the outset.
The Portland WNBA team is set to play at the Moda Center, which is also home to the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers. This shared arena setup presents a tremendous opportunity for cross-promotion, potentially increasing attendance and enhancing the visibility of women’s basketball. Portland’s basketball heritage, combined with its modern facilities, lays a strong foundation for both the WNBA team and the fanbase to thrive in the coming years.
The inclusion of the Portland team is part of a broader trend within the WNBA, which has seen an upswing in its visibility and fan engagement. Starting in 2025, the league will also welcome teams like the Golden State Valkyries, followed by franchises in Toronto and Portland in 2026. This wave of expansion indicates that the WNBA is not merely surviving but flourishing, with strong support for existing star players and an influx of exciting new talent.
The expansion into Portland aligns with the overall growth trajectory of women’s sports, not just in basketball but across multiple leagues, including the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The increasing viewership numbers and attendance figures are indicators of a cultural shift towards a more inclusive perception of women’s athletics. The statistical data from the ongoing 2024 WNBA season points to an exciting playoff ahead, as established stars and promising newcomers generate buzz around the league.
The WNBA’s decision to plant roots in Portland is a watershed moment for the league and women’s sports overall. With a fresh commitment to community involvement, shared venues, and a landscape of expanding teams, the future looks exceptionally bright for women’s basketball in Portland and beyond.