Portland is set to welcome a new WNBA expansion team in 2026, owned and operated by Raj Sports for a $125 million franchise fee. The Bhathal family, experienced in professional sports ownership, is excited to bring women’s basketball back to the city. The team will play at the Moda Center, with a dedicated practice facility planned.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is pleased with the addition, alongside expansion teams in Golden State and Toronto. The league hopes to continue growing and potentially adding more teams by 2028. Portland previously had a WNBA team, the Fire, and has a strong history of supporting women’s sports, as seen with the success of the Portland Thorns in the NWSL.
The Bhathals, who also own the Portland Thorns, see the new franchise as an opportunity to further promote women’s sports in Portland. U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden highlighted the state’s enthusiasm for women’s sports, with strong support from college teams and fan attendance records. The city even has a bar dedicated to women’s sports.
Overall, the addition of a WNBA team in Portland is a significant moment for the city, adding to its legacy as a hub for women’s sports. With a passionate community and strong ownership group, the future looks bright for women’s basketball in Portland.
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