WNBA Adds 15th Franchise for 2025 Season

This marks a return of professional women’s basketball to the city, which previously was home to the Portland Fire from 2000 to 2002. The new team will play at the Moda Center, home of the NBA’s Trail Blazers.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert noted that “Portland has a rich basketball history, and the city is well-positioned to host this expansion team.” She also emphasized the role of this move in growing the league’s fanbase and reach.

This expansion is part of the WNBA’s strategy to increase its presence across new markets, and with Portland’s addition, the Pacific Northwest will now have two teams, which means some fun regional rivalries with the Seattle Storm.

The new team will begin building its roster and staff in preparation for its 2025 debut, and fans can expect more details as the season approaches. This is a huge news for the WNBA as it continues its wild growth from this year.

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The WNBA previously announced two new expansion teams in 2023, bringing franchises to both Toronto and the Bay Area. Both teams are expected to begin playing in the 2025 season.

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