The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is taking a significant step forward by announcing the addition of a new team in Portland, marking the league’s 15th franchise. This development, unveiled by league officials on Wednesday, not only signals the WNBA’s ongoing expansion but also reflects the growing interest and investment in women’s sports. The Portland team, whose name has yet to be announced, is set to commence operations in 2026 under the ownership of RAJ Sports, an investment group dedicated to sports ventures. Lisa Bhathal Merage, a prominent figure in this endeavor, will serve as the controlling owner and governor.
Portland holds a special place in the landscape of women’s sports and basketball. As WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert highlighted, “Portland has been an epicenter of the women’s sports movement,” a testament to the city’s long-standing support for female athletes. The decision to reintroduce a WNBA franchise to Portland is not just about basketball; it’s about revitalizing a vibrant community that has shown immense passion for women’s sports over the years. The team’s home games will take place at the Moda Center, shared with the NBA’s Portland Trailblazers, creating an exciting synergy between the two leagues.
A unique aspect of this expansion is the commitment to involving the local community in the naming of the new franchise. Bhathal Merage emphasized the importance of listening to fans and stakeholders, promising to gather feedback that reflects Portland’s identity and spirit. This inclusivity not only strengthens community bonds but also fosters a sense of ownership among fans, which is crucial for the long-term success of the team.
RAJ Sports is not only focused on the immediate launch of the Portland team; they are also dedicated to building a practice facility tailored for the new franchise, along with a training facility for the Portland Thorns, the local National Women’s Soccer League team. This foresight showcases a strategic investment in athlete development, emphasizing the importance of proper training environments to enhance performance.
The addition of the Portland franchise underscores the WNBA’s momentum as it continues to gain popularity. Records have been set for in-person attendance and viewership within the league, driven by a mixture of established talents such as A’ja Wilson and a dynamic influx of rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. These developments contribute not only to heightened media interest but also to the financial growth of teams, as demonstrated by the recent NBA media rights deal which has yielded significant increases in valuation.
As the WNBA prepares for its upcoming season, set to kick off with playoffs on September 22, the league is also making strides to improve the experience for its teams and athletes. A landmark decision was made to offer league-wide chartered flights for the first time, in partnership with Delta Air Lines, which is likely to enhance travel logistics and player welfare. The establishment of a new team in Portland is more than just an expansion; it represents an exhilarating new chapter in the history of women’s basketball, promising growth, competition, and a celebration of female athleticism.