The Portland Fire might be a new addition to the WNBA this year. But they are making a clear statement that the team cannot be taken lightly. Earlier, Emily Engstler took on the critics for not giving Portland enough importance.
The Portland Fire do not look like an expansion team early in the 2026 season. Portland delivered a signature win to their fans in a 100-84 rout against Indiana.
Sarah Ashlee Barker, who played a limited role for the Los Angeles Sparks as a rookie in 2025, has been a reliable backup guard for the WNBA expansion team Portland Fire in their debut season.