Today, Mayor Ted Wheeler, along with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and team owners Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal, have officially announced the introduction of Portland's newest sports team, a WNBA franchise slated to debut in the 2026 season. The announcement was made today at a press event held at the Moda Center, which will also serve as the home for the new team.
"We are thrilled to welcome the WNBA to Portland, a city renowned for its vibrant sports culture and deep commitment to fostering women's athletics," said Mayor Wheeler. "This expansion marks a significant milestone in our city's sports history and underscores our role as a burgeoning hub for women's sports. It's more than basketball; it's about energizing our community, enhancing our local economy, and celebrating pride in our city."
This WNBA team is expected to bring a new wave of enthusiasm and community engagement, offering Portland fans a new team to rally behind and showcasing the city's ongoing commitment to diverse and inclusive sports offerings.
Previously, the Portland City Council and Trail Blazers had finalized an agreement, securing the Trail Blazers' presence at the Moda Center through at least the 2030 season.
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