The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is set to embark on an exciting new chapter with the announcement of its 15th team in Portland, Oregon. This addition marks the third new franchise introduced as part of an ambitious expansion plan to capitalize on the league’s soaring popularity. Set to begin play in 2026, the unnamed Portland team will be owned and operated by RAJ Sports, a firm that has shown its commitment to the sports industry.
RAJ Sports—led by controlling owner Lisa Bhathal Merage—looks to establish a franchise that resonates deeply with the Portland community. In an effort to cultivate local support and engagement, the ownership plans to solicit input from residents on the team’s name. At a recent press conference, Bhathal Merage emphasized that this collaborative approach is essential for fostering a strong relationship between the franchise and its fanbase. Additionally, plans for a dedicated practice facility reflect an understanding of the necessity for adequate training spaces, showing a proactive stance in meeting team and player needs.
The announcement to bring a WNBA team back to Portland is particularly significant given the city’s longstanding history with women’s athletics. Previously hosting a WNBA franchise that operated until 2002, the return of a team symbolizes a reclamation of a vibrant, basketball-loving community that has supported women’s sports robustly over the years. As WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert pointed out, Portland has always been a cornerstone of the women’s sports movement and has fostered a passionate basketball audience that is eagerly awaiting the return of professional women’s basketball.
The WNBA’s expansion strategy is not only focused on increasing the number of teams but also on enhancing the league’s overall credibility and marketability. With the addition of teams in Toronto and Portland in the 2026 season, alongside the 2025 debut of the Golden State Valkyries, the league is positioning itself to tap into new markets and demographics that may have previously been overlooked.
Notably, the rise in women’s sports has been accompanied by a surge in financial investment and viewership. The current WNBA season has witnessed record attendance and impressive viewership statistics, showcasing a clear demand for women’s professional sports. The latest media rights deal for the NBA also reflects the increasing market value of women’s sports, indicating a positive trend that may only continue to gain momentum.
The upcoming WNBA season is poised to captivate audiences with a mix of established stars like A’ja Wilson and promising rookies such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. This blend of talent is expected to draw more eyes to the games and elevate the overall experience for fans both in arenas and at home. Additionally, the landmark decision to implement leaguewide chartered flights for teams—facilitated by Delta Air Lines—marks a key shift in how women’s sports leagues are treating their athletes, promising a more professional environment.
As we move closer to the Portland team’s inaugural season, the WNBA stands at the forefront of a transformative era in sports, continually breaking down barriers and redefining what it means to be a fan of women’s athletics. It’s an exhilarating time for the league and its newly embraced franchises as the future brims with promise and possibility.
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