Portland to Get WNBA Expansion Team in 2026

Portland is set to receive a WNBA expansion team, expected to begin play in the 2026 season, according to Sean Highkin of the Rose Garden Report. The ownership group will be led by the Bhathal family, who also own the Portland Thorns in the NWSL. An official announcement from the WNBA is anticipated on September 10, with the team's name and logo to be revealed later. The new team will initially play at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum before moving to the renovated Moda Center. This expansion marks the return of WNBA basketball to Portland, which previously had the Portland Fire from 2000-2002. The league's popularity is surging, with attendance and viewership significantly increasing this season.