WNBA Franchise Confirmed for Portland, Press Conference Happening Wednesday

Portland Set to Welcome Professional Women's Basketball Team

Portland, the largest city in Oregon, has been confirmed as the recipient of a new Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise, which will begin playing in 2025, according to the league.

The announcement was made official in a press release from the WNBA on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, and was met with excitement and anticipation from the Portland community. The new franchise will be the 12th team in the league and the first professional women's basketball team in the Pacific Northwest.

Press Conference to Provide Further Details

A press conference is scheduled for Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at the Moda Center to provide additional details and introduce the team's ownership, management, and coaching staff. Fans are encouraged to attend the event, which will be open to the public, to learn more about the new franchise and meet its leaders.

The Portland WNBA franchise has yet to announce its team name, logo, or jersey design but will likely do so in the coming months. Season ticket sales and other details will be made available soon. The team is expected to play its home games at the Moda Center, which is also home to the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers.

Economic Impact and Community Engagement

The addition of a WNBA franchise in Portland is expected to have a positive economic impact on the city. The team will create new jobs, generate revenue, attract visitors, and contribute to the city's vibrant sports scene.

Beyond its economic impact, the team is also committed to community engagement and will work to inspire young girls and women in the Portland area. The team will host clinics, camps, and other outreach programs to promote basketball and empower the next generation of female athletes.

WNBA Continues to Grow in Popularity

The WNBA, founded in 1997, has been experiencing steady growth in popularity in recent years. The league has a strong fan base, regularly attracts high television ratings, and has a global reach.

The addition of a franchise in Portland will further expand the league's footprint and provide fans in the Pacific Northwest with the opportunity to experience professional women's basketball at the highest level.