News Summary

After a two-decade absence, the Portland Fire, the city’s former WNBA team, will make a comeback in 2026. The announcement was made at the Rose Quarter, sparking excitement among fans. This revival aligns with growing interest in women’s sports, even as girls’ high school basketball participation declines in Oregon. Led by RAJ Sports, the Fire aims to inspire the next generation of female athletes with plans for a new performance center and a focus on visibility in women’s sports.

Portland’s Exciting Sporting Comeback: Portland Fire to Return to WNBA!

Portland is ready to bring out the confetti and dust off those old basketball sneakers! After a long 20-year hiatus, the Portland Fire, the city’s beloved WNBA team, is making a sensational comeback! They’ll hit the court again in 2026, bringing the energy and passion of women’s professional basketball back to Oregon.

Announcing the Return

The big announcement took place on July 15 at the bustling Rose Quarter, where a lively crowd gathered, buzzing with excitement. The original Portland Fire played from 2000 to 2002 before they had to fold, leaving a gap in the sports culture of the city that fans have felt ever since. But now, with the buzz surrounding women’s professional basketball on the rise, it seems like the perfect time for a revival!

A Shift in Participation

Interestingly, as Portland gears up for the Fire’s return, there’s a parallel story emerging in the world of girls’ sports. Since the pandemic hit, girls’ high school basketball participation in Oregon has taken a hit. Numbers dipped by 5.5% over the past four years, meaning over 300 young athletes have stepped away from the sport. In the 2021-22 season, there were just 5,607 girls playing basketball statewide. On the flip side, volleyball is hitting new highs, with participation skyrocketing to 7,400!

What’s Happening with Basketball?

Why the decline in basketball, especially as the WNBA is capturing hearts and eyeballs on a national level? Some say athletes who were sidelined during the COVID-19 pandemic found it challenging to jump back in, while others feel basketball has earned a reputation as a tough sport that’s hard to succeed in. Coaches from Southridge and Sunset High Schools have noticed that their junior varsity teams are struggling to keep players, and without those junior teams, it becomes challenging to develop upcoming talent.

Students like Hayley Schauff from Catlin Gabel made the switch from basketball to volleyball for exactly those reasons, noting that basketball’s popularity has dipped and finding success in it feels like a mountain to climb.

Voices from the Court

At Camas High School, seniors Makenna Lee and Kadryna Green expressed disappointment over a lack of respect for girls’ teams, which they believe turns potential new players away from joining. It’s a tough situation that many hope the Portland Fire’s return can change, igniting a new flame of interest and enthusiasm for girls’ basketball in the community.

The Future of the Fire

The Portland Fire is in good hands with RAJ Sports, which also owns the famous Portland Thorns soccer team. They have big plans, including a stunning “Groundbreaking Women’s Performance Center” that will cater to both basketball and soccer. With a logo that embodies Portland’s vibrant colors while keeping the historic name, the Fire seems ready to revitalize their brand and the community’s love for the game.

Aiming for Growth

As the WNBA looks to expand to 18 teams by 2030, the return of the Portland Fire is a significant step forward for women’s sports. The interim president of the Fire has highlighted the importance of visibility in women’s sports, aiming to inspire young girls to pick up that basketball and hit the courts. After all, a key part of ambition and success is seeing it in action and knowing that every girl can aspire to greatness.

With the Fire’s comeback on the horizon, Portland has good reason to cheer! It’s not just about basketball; it’s about community, empowerment, and the joy of sport. So, get ready, Portland—we’re all set for a sporting renaissance!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Wilcox Central Names Wesley Person as New Basketball Coach
Connecticut High School Football Season Kicks Off in 2025
Oregon Education Department Under Fire for Transgender Athlete Policies
Fryeburg Academy Faces Off Against North Yarmouth Academy
Local High School Golf Highlights for May and June 2024
Michigan High School Girls Soccer State Tournament Results
Wyoming High School Soccer State Championships Set for Gillette
New Jersey’s Spring Softball Season: Vote for Your Favorites
Highland vs. TJCA: Upcoming High School Sports Match
Westport Students Support Firing of Soccer Coach

Additional Resources