In a groundbreaking announcement, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) revealed that it will introduce its 15th team in Portland, marking a significant step in the league’s expansion efforts. Scheduled to commence play in 2026, this new franchise, under the ownership of RAJ Sports and its managing director Lisa Bhathal Merage, represents a culmination of visionary leadership and a response to the soaring popularity of women’s sports. This decision not only symbolizes the WNBA’s ambition but also reflects the changing dynamics of sports culture, where women’s leagues are gaining prominence and competitive stature.
Portland has a rich historical relationship with women’s sports, making it a strategic choice for the new WNBA team. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert highlighted this in her statement, noting the city’s vibrant basketball community and passionate fan base. The team’s home games will be held at the Moda Center, an arena already familiar to many local sports enthusiasts as the home of the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers. The collaboration between the WNBA and the local community in determining the team’s name showcases an inclusive approach that aims to cement the franchise’s identity within Portland’s robust sporting landscape.
The ownership structure of the new Portland franchise reveals a blend of financial backing and a commitment to community engagement. Lisa Bhathal Merage, as the controlling owner, has vowed to consider community input regarding the team’s branding and operations. The intention to construct a dedicated practice facility further emphasizes the team’s commitment to both development and excellence—crucial for attracting talent and enhancing player performance. This dual focus on infrastructure and community connection could potentially lead to a strong local and national fan base, as witnessed when the original Portland WNBA team operated until 2002.
A Sign of Growth in Women’s Sports
The establishment of the Portland team is part of a broader trend of expansion within the WNBA and women’s sports overall. With other franchises such as the Golden State Valkyries entering the league in 2025 and teams sprouting in Toronto, the momentum is undeniable. The WNBA’s recent accomplishments, including record attendance figures and television ratings for the 2024 season, indicate an ongoing rise in interest and support for women’s professional basketball. The league’s strategy to enhance player welfare, exemplified by the introduction of league-wide chartered flights—a first for the WNBA—shows an evolution in management that prioritizes athlete experience.
As the WNBA gears up for its playoffs beginning September 22, the league is basking in the spotlight of its unprecedented growth. Star players like A’ja Wilson and bright newcomers like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have generated excitement, presenting the WNBA as a competitive force alongside traditional men’s leagues. Portland’s new team is poised to contribute to this trajectory while reinforcing the city’s legacy in women’s basketball.
The creation of Portland’s WNBA franchise is not just another team; it’s a testament to the rising significance of women in sports and the continued efforts to foster inclusive, robust environments for athletic excellence. The future appears bright for the WNBA, its new members, and the communities they serve.