Full Breakdown
Portland Fire's Return Sparks Record Crowd but Falls Short in WNBA Opener
5/10/2026, 7:00:01 PM
Opening Night: 98-83 Loss to Chicago Sky
On May 9, 2026, the expansion Portland Fire opened their inaugural WNBA game at the Moda Center, falling 98-83 to the Chicago Sky. Kamilla Cardoso posted 22 points and 14 rebounds for Chicago, with Skylar Diggins adding 21 points and 11 rebounds. Portland’s Carla Leite scored the franchise’s first basket and finished with 18 points; Bridget Carleton’s three-pointer tied the game at 70 before Chicago pulled ahead in the fourth quarter.
Background & Context
The Fire resurrect a franchise that played from 2000-02, averaging about 8,000 fans before folding when owner Paul Allen declined to buy it. In September 2024, the WNBA granted Portland a new franchise, which Raj Sports—led by Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal, also owners of the Portland Thorns—acquired for $125 million. The team’s branding honors the original Fire with “Legacy Reignited” apparel referencing the 2002-26 era.
Data & Statistics
The Moda Center announced a sellout of 19,335, the highest attendance for any WNBA inaugural game, eclipsing the prior record of 18,064 set by the Golden State Valkyries. The 98-83 loss left Portland still seeking its first win after erasing a 13-point halftime deficit.
Why It Matters / Impact
Senator Ron Wyden called the event “a huge, huge day for women’s sports in Oregon” and noted a “big economic multiplier” for the state. The record crowd highlights rising demand for women’s professional sports in the Pacific Northwest, echoing the Portland Thorns’ record NWSL attendance earlier this year.
Official Statements & Responses
Wyden stressed the Fire’s return as evidence of league growth. LeBlanc described the launch “game-changing for our city” and said the team cements Portland as a hub for women’s athletics. Raj Sports reaffirmed its commitment to community engagement and long-term competitiveness.
Criticism & Opposition
No organized criticism appeared in the sources.
On-the-Ground Reports
Fans voiced pride: “I think it shows that the WNBA is growing,” said Grace Pytynia-Hillier. Robin Wisner added, “It ensures people that the Northwest of Portland has so much to offer and for their families to be engaged.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree on attendance and outcome; no contradictions found.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think it shows that [the WNBA] is growing,” — Grace Pytynia-Hillier, fan
- “This is a huge, huge day for women’s sports in Oregon,” — Ron Wyden, U.S. Senator
- “Yeah, the fire pit was really lit,” — Sarah Ashlee Barker, guard, Portland Fire
- “We saw glimpses tonight of what we have the potential to be,” — Alex Sarama, head coach, Portland Fire
What's Next
Portland’s next home game is against the New York Liberty on Tuesday, followed by a four-game homestand that will test the team’s development and sustain the momentum generated by the record-setting debut.
