The WNBA has announced that Portland, Oregon, will be awarded its 15th franchise, set to begin play in 2026. This marks the league's continued expansion as Portland joins Golden State and Toronto in the upcoming years. The new team will be owned by RAJ Sports, which also owns the Portland Thorns of the NWSL, with Lisa Bhathal Merage as the controlling owner. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert highlighted Portland's strong community support for women's sports and its significance in the women's sports movement. The franchise will play its home games at the Moda Center, home of the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers. The league is also on track to add a 16th team by 2027 or 2028.