Portland gets WNBA expansion franchise

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- There is room for two teams in Rip City.

Portland was awarded a WNBA expansion franchise Wednesday, which was announced early in the morning ahead of a mid-afternoon press conference at the Moda Center.

Cathy Engelbert, commissioner of the WNBA, made the official announcement that Portland would be awarded the latest franchise over two decades since the Rose City last had a team.

"The demand for the W brand of basketball is unprecedented," Engelbert said. "We're selling out games at historic pace, setting ratings records, introducing our veterans and new stars to new fans and the world. And seeing incredible excitement as we head into our play-offs this weekend."

Late Tuesday, KOIN 6 Sports learned the Bhathal family would hold a press conference about "the future of women's sports in Portland." The Bhathal family, owners of the Portland Thorns, are also the owners of the new WNBA franchise.

"Our vision goes beyond basketball. We aim to create a culture of excellence both on and off the court," said co-franchise owner Lisa Bhathal Merage. "We want to inspire the next generation of women athletes and fans of all ages and genders."

In their remarks, franchise co-owners Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal thanked the Portland community and civic leaders like Sen. Ron Wyden and Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler for championing bringing back a WNBA team.

"We are excited to bring this effort to life, knowing our efforts today will have lasting impact on the future of sports and the athletes who inspire us," Alex Bhathal said. "Our vision for this team is clear, we want to create a space where excellence, community, inclusivity, diversity and equity come together. We're not just building a team, we're creating a movement."

The Portland team is expected to begin playing in the WNBA in the 2026 season. It's not known if it will assume the previous team nickname of Fire.

"RIP City is now a WNBA city!" Wyden said. "I'm not a gambler but I know it's a sure bet that Portland is going to be a slam dunk success in the WNBA."

"I think this is a sure thing, Portland is the right city for this franchise. And we're going to prove it," Mayor Wheeler said.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek wasn't able to attend the press conference in person due to prior engagement but she sent a pre-recorded message that was played during the announcement.

"I am so excited about today's WNBA announcement," Kotek said. "This is a big deal for Oregon, for the City of Portland, and for athletes and fans of women's sports everywhere."

The WNBA recently announced two new expansion teams, the Golden State Valkyries and a currently-unnamed team in Toronto.

Watch the entire press conference in the video player below: