WNBA Returns to Portland with 15th Franchise, RAJ Sports to Pay $125 Million

Sep 18, 2024, 01:44 PM

The WNBA has announced that it will add a 15th franchise, returning to Portland, Oregon. The new team, which will begin play in the 2026 season at Moda Center, will be owned and operated by RAJ Sports, led by Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal. This expansion marks the WNBA's return to Portland, which previously hosted the Portland Fire from 2000 to 2002. The owners of the Portland Thorns, a National Women's Soccer League team, are also involved in this venture. The franchise fee for the new team is reported to be $125 million. This move is part of the WNBA's broader expansion strategy, which also includes new teams in the Bay Area and Toronto. The new Portland team will create an immediate rival for the Seattle Storm.