The WNBA is officially going international — and heading back to Rip City.
Two new teams are set to join the league in 2026, and they’re already making noise: one in Portland, Oregon, and the other in Toronto, Ontario — the WNBA’s first team outside the U.S.
Let’s break it down:
🟣 Portland WNBA Team (Name TBA)
- City: Portland, Oregon
- Arena: Moda Center
- Capacity: 19,393
- Joining: 2026
- Head Coach: TBD
Portland has been hungry for a WNBA return ever since the Portland Fire folded back in 2002. Now, over two decades later, the league is coming back — and this time, it’s bigger and bolder.
The Moda Center, already home to the NBA’s Trail Blazers, will give this team one of the largest arenas in the WNBA. With 19,000+ seats and a passionate basketball culture, expect crazy energy from day one.
And with Nike HQ just down the road? You know the jersey game is gonna go HARD.
🔵 Toronto Tempo
- City: Toronto, Ontario
- Arena: Coca-Cola Coliseum
- Capacity: 8,700
- Joining: 2026
- Head Coach: TBD
History is being made here. The Toronto Tempo will become the first WNBA team in Canada, opening up a new market full of hoops fans who’ve been begging for a team.
Toronto already loves its Raptors, and with players like Kia Nurse helping put Canada on the women’s basketball map, the W is tapping into a goldmine of talent and support.
The Coca-Cola Coliseum isn’t the biggest venue, but it’s cozy and LOUD — think Barclays Center vibes before the Liberty blew up.
What This Means for the League
This expansion isn’t just two more teams — it’s momentum. The WNBA is growing, fast. More cities, more fans, more opportunities for stars to shine.
By 2026, the league will have:
- 14 total teams
- A footprint in both the Pacific Northwest and international markets
- A bigger national (and now global) stage for women’s basketball
Whether you’re Team Portland or Team Tempo — one thing’s for sure…
The WNBA is on the rise, and we’re here for it.
