The WNBA has announced that Portland will be awarded its 15th franchise, set to begin play in 2026, marking the return of professional women's basketball to the city after the Portland Fire folded in 2002. The new team will be owned by RAJ Sports, led by Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal, and will play at the Moda Center. This expansion is part of a broader league growth that includes new teams in Golden State and Toronto. The announcement was celebrated widely, with local politicians, former players, and business leaders expressing enthusiasm for the economic and cultural boost. The league's focus on player welfare and facilities was highlighted, with plans for a state-of-the-art practice facility. The return of the WNBA to Portland underscores the city's deep connection to basketball and women's sports.