Full Breakdown
Portland Fire Return to the WNBA: Reviving a Defunct Franchise
5/9/2026, 2:34:38 AM
The New Portland Fire Begins the 2026 Season, Reviving the 2000-2002 Franchise
The new Portland Fire begins the 2026 season, reviving the 2000-2002 franchise.
Historical Roots
The Fire debuted May 31, 2000 vs. Houston, played three seasons, never made playoffs, posted a 10-22 record (.313 win pct), averaged ~8,000 fans, and folded in 2002 after an ownership restructure.
Ownership, Branding, and Market Response
Last summer owners Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal (also of the NWSL’s Portland Thorns) secured the slot; sponsors include Alaska Airlines, First Tech Credit Union, Kaiser Permanente, Toyota, with Chime and Lashify on jerseys. The team unveiled a Nike “Rose City Built” uniform in glacier-blue with a rose print, and a preseason home game in early May 2026 drew 13,550 fans and sold-out merchandise.
Roster and Early Preparation
The April 3 draft supplied eight of eleven picks; the May 8 roster listed 13 players (12 standard, one developmental) after trades (Bibby -> Phoenix, Caldwell -> Minnesota) and injury suspensions. Six weeks of practice and two preseason games were possible after the labor agreement concluded in March. First-time head coach Alex Sarma stresses defensive intensity and a “never out” mindset.
Legacy and Player Perspectives
Former center Sylvia Crawley, the original jump-ball participant, now sees archival footage restored. Alumni such as Rookie-of-the-Year Jackie Stiles are highlighted in the revived history. Current players Emily Engstler, Bridget Carleton and Serah Williams call the Fire a bridge to the past.
Official Statements & Responses
Marketing VP Kimberly Veale called the franchise’s story “rich and unique,” pledging to honor its past while building a new identity. Coach Sarma highlighted a “never out” mindset and praised the 13,550 fans after a preseason loss. Eve Peyser described citywide sentiment as “optimistic,” and Storm CMO Will Gulley said he was “super excited that the Fire are back.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “I have photos of me playing, but no footage to show my family, my nieces, my nephews,” — Sylvia Crawley, former Portland Fire center
- “It’s another thing to go to a brand new franchise and be a part of a legacy for that first year.” — Emily Engstler, Portland forward
- “Even in situations we’re down,” — Alex Sarma, head coach
- “We have a team history,” — Kimberly Veale, senior vice president of marketing and communications
Data & Statistics
Original Fire: 10-22 record, .313 win pct, ~8,000 average attendance.
2026 preseason: 13,550 fans, sold-out merchandise.
Sponsors: Alaska Airlines, First Tech Credit Union, Kaiser Permanente, Toyota; jersey sponsors Chime, Lashify.
Roster: 13 players, 2 trades, 1 developmental spot.
WNBA: 30th season, target 19 teams by 2030.
What’s Next
Season opener May 9, 2026 vs. Chicago Sky at the Moda Center; the Fire aim to leverage revived heritage to attract fans and contend for playoffs as the league expands.
