**Portland Fire Returns: WNBA Expansion Franchise Revives Legacy**
The WNBA has announced the return of the Portland Fire, an expansion franchise that pays homage to the original team that played in the city from 2000 to 2002. This exciting development was revealed on Tuesday, marking a significant moment for both the league and the local sports community. Clare Hamill, the interim president of the Fire, expressed enthusiasm about the revival, stating, “Our feeling is that the Fire never died. Fans have been waiting for us to come back, and we’re back with the Portland Fire.”
In addition to the nostalgic name, the team has unveiled a new logo, “Rose on Fire,” along with a vibrant color scheme featuring red, brown, blue, and pink. Hamill emphasized Portland’s commitment to women’s sports, saying, “As a city that has long championed women’s sports, Portland is ready to reclaim its place in the WNBA and reignite its connection to the game on the world stage.” She added that the franchise aims to honor the legacy of its predecessor while forging a bold new path forward.
The Portland Fire was awarded a WNBA franchise in September and is operated by Raj Sports, which also owns the Portland Thorns of the National Women’s Soccer League. In a groundbreaking partnership, the Fire and Thorns will share a new joint training complex, marking the first collaboration between the two women’s leagues.
The enthusiasm for the Fire is palpable, as the team has already sold over 11,000 season tickets for the 2026 season, surpassing the previous WNBA record. The Fire will play their home games at the Moda Center, where the original franchise averaged around 8,000 fans per game.
The WNBA is not only welcoming the Fire but also introducing another new team, the Toronto Tempo, which will begin play in 2026. This expansion reflects the growing popularity and support for women’s basketball across North America.
In conclusion, the return of the Portland Fire signifies a new chapter for women’s professional basketball in the city, with a strong fan base and a commitment to honoring the past while looking forward to a bright future.
**FAQ**
*What is the significance of the Portland Fire’s return to the WNBA?*
The return of the Portland Fire is significant as it revives a beloved franchise, reconnects the city with women’s professional basketball, and demonstrates the growing support for women’s sports in the region.
