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VisitWho will be the head coach for the new WNBA Portland franchise in its first season in 2026?
Cheryl Reeve • 25%
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Official announcement by the WNBA or the Portland franchise
WNBA Announces Portland as 15th Franchise, Set to Begin Play in 2026 at Moda Center for $125 Million
Sep 18, 2024, 02:04 PM
The WNBA has officially announced the addition of its 15th franchise, returning to Portland, Oregon. The new team, set to 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 comes after Portland previously hosted the Portland Fire from 2000 to 2002. The Bhathals recently acquired the Portland Thorns of the NWSL, further solidifying their investment in Portland's sports scene. The expansion fee for the new franchise is reported to be a record $125 million. This move follows the recent additions of teams in the Bay Area and Toronto, reflecting the WNBA's growing popularity and expansion efforts. The new Portland team will create an immediate rival for the Seattle Storm.
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Cheryl Reeve • 25%
Becky Hammon • 25%
Sandy Brondello • 25%
Other • 25%
Becky Hammon • 25%
Cheryl Reeve • 25%
Sandy Brondello • 25%
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Lisa Leslie • 25%
Dawn Staley • 25%
Becky Hammon • 25%
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Current NCAA Women's Basketball Head Coach • 25%
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Becky Hammon • 25%
Cheryl Reeve • 25%
Noelle Quinn • 25%
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Becky Hammon • 25%
Dawn Staley • 25%
Cheryl Reeve • 25%
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Cheryl Reeve • 25%
Becky Hammon • 25%
Sandy Brondello • 25%
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Becky Hammon • 25%
Dawn Staley • 25%
Cheryl Reeve • 25%
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Portland Fire • 25%
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