The Return of Basketball to Portland

Portland is getting its own WNBA team! The league announced the addition of a 15th franchise, marking the third expansion team in their recent growth. This new team will begin playing in the 2026 season and will be owned and operated by RAJ Sports, an investment firm with a focus on sports.

• Lisa Bhathal Merage will be the controlling owner and governor of the team.
• The team will play their home games at the Moda Center, the same arena as the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers.

Portland's WNBA History

Portland previously had a WNBA team that was active from 1997 to 2002, showcasing the city's existing passion for women's basketball. This return signals a revival of the sport in the city.

RAJ Sports' Sports Investment

RAJ Sports has a history of investing in sports teams, demonstrating their commitment to the industry.

• In 2013, they became co-owners of the NBA's Sacramento Kings.
• In January 2024, they purchased the NWSL's Portland Thorns, a women's soccer team.

Growth of Women's Sports

The WNBA expansion in Portland is a testament to the burgeoning popularity of women's sports. The league is experiencing a surge in viewership and attendance, with the recent season seeing record numbers. This growth is fueled by the league's existing stars like A'ja Wilson and the exciting new talent of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.

• The WNBA also announced that teams would have league-wide chartered flights for the first time, contributing to enhanced player experience and travel.

WNBA's Expansion Plans

The WNBA's recent expansion efforts demonstrate the league's commitment to growing its footprint and reach. The league is adding several teams in the coming years, including:

• The Golden State Valkyries in 2025
• Teams in Toronto and Portland in 2026

Team Naming and Community Engagement

The Portland team's ownership is actively seeking feedback from the community for naming the franchise. This commitment to community engagement will shape the team's identity and foster a strong connection with the city.

RAJ Sports' Commitment to Portland

RAJ Sports is not only focused on bringing basketball back to Portland but also on investing in the city's sports infrastructure. They are committed to building a practice facility for the WNBA team and a training facility for the Portland Thorns, further strengthening their presence and support for women's sports in the city.

The Future of Women's Basketball

The WNBA's expansion and the growing popularity of women's sports in general point towards a bright future for basketball. With a growing fan base and a commitment to athlete development and infrastructure, the league is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and success.