The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is poised to expand further, introducing its 15th franchise in Portland, Oregon, as confirmed by the league on Wednesday. This marks a significant development in the sport’s evolving landscape, as the decision to establish a team in Portland reaffirms the city’s historical connection to women’s sports. Slated to begin play in 2026, this new team—whose name remains yet to be determined—will be owned and operated by RAJ Sports, an investment firm focused on boosting sports initiatives.
At the helm of this promising venture will be Lisa Bhathal Merage, who takes on the role of controlling owner and governor. During the announcement, the WNBA Commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, expressed the importance of this expansion, highlighting Portland’s vibrant basketball culture and strong community support for women’s athletics. Engelbert stated, “bringing a team back to Portland is another important step forward,” suggesting that this move not only enhances the league but also acknowledges the growing demand for female representation in sports.
Community Engagement in Team Naming
An exciting facet of the franchise’s formation is the commitment to community involvement in the naming process. Bhathal Merage emphasized this commitment, underscoring the intention to create a team that resonates with local fans. Community engagement initiatives are vital as they cultivate a deeper connection between the franchise and its supporters, setting the groundwork for unifying local basketball enthusiasts around a common identity.
In line with the establishment of the new WNBA team, an investment in infrastructure is also on the agenda. Plans have been announced for a dedicated practice facility for the WNBA team, as well as a training center for the Portland Thorns, the city’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team. These facilities will not only enable the teams to train efficiently but also underscore a commitment to elevating women’s sports in the region.
The addition of the Portland team is part of a broader strategy as the WNBA is seeing unprecedented growth. Following their expansion plans, the league will also see the Golden State Valkyries taking the court in 2025 and new franchises in Toronto and Portland in 2026. Historically, Portland has hosted a WNBA team in the past, but the team folded in 2002. The re-establishment of a team in this vibrant city speaks volumes about the advancing landscape of women’s sports.
The 2024 WNBA season has been marked by record attendance and viewership, reflecting a significant shift in audience engagement. The league’s rising profile can be attributed to a blend of existing star talent, such as A’ja Wilson, and exciting new players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Additionally, a groundbreaking deal for chartered flights for WNBA teams signifies a notable advancement in player comfort and organization.
As the league gears up for the upcoming playoffs on September 22, this new expansion will not only solidify the WNBA’s place in sports history but also promote the ongoing movement toward equality and recognition in women’s sports. With traditional barriers being dismantled, the future looks bright for both the WNBA and its dedicated fans.
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