Portland Fire open 2026 WNBA season against Chicago Sky
Updated
Updated · 750 KXL · May 6
Portland Fire open 2026 WNBA season against Chicago Sky
7 articles · Updated · 750 KXL · May 6
The game is set for Saturday night at Portland's Moda Center, marking the franchise's first WNBA game that counts in more than two decades.
ESPN broadcaster Holly Rowe said Portland's strong support for women's sports could make the revived Fire a major franchise and a quick on-court contender.
The opener follows the WNBA's return to Portland 24 years after the original Fire folded in 2002, a comeback supporters say reflects the league's growth.
Can Portland's WNBA team justify its massive investment, or is the women's sports market entering a bubble?
Will a $150M facility make Portland the true epicenter of women's sports, or is that just marketing hype?
How will Portland's new team keep fans engaged while its strategy is to lose now for a better future?
Portland Fire’s $125M Investment Fuels WNBA’s Fastest-Growing Season and Ambitious Expansion Plan
Overview
On May 3, 2026, the Portland Fire made a historic return to professional women's basketball in Portland after a 24-year absence, igniting excitement among fans and players alike. The team, built with one of the youngest rosters in the league and guided by a development-focused coaching staff, faces early challenges due to key player absences but remains committed to growth and building a strong identity. This revival is part of the WNBA's broader expansion and growth, supported by a landmark collective bargaining agreement, record-breaking fan engagement, and significant local investment. Together, these factors signal a promising and sustainable future for women's sports in Portland and beyond.