Get ready for a trip down memory lane as we dive into the history of the Portland Fire, the city's former WNBA franchise. With the new team set to hit the court in 2026, there's no better time to explore some fascinating facts about its predecessor.
A Short-Lived Legacy
The Portland Fire left its mark on the WNBA for just three seasons, from 2000 to 2002. Despite its brief existence, the team managed to carve out a unique place in league history, sharing the title of shortest-lived franchise with the Miami Sol.
A Record to Remember
In those three years, the Fire compiled a record of 37 wins and 59 losses, falling short of the playoffs each season. Their closest brush with postseason glory came in 2002, when they finished with a respectable 16-16 record, just one game behind the Seattle Storm for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Dominance Over the Mystics
While the Fire's overall record may not have been impressive, they certainly had a team they loved to beat: the Washington Mystics. In five meetings, Portland emerged victorious four times, showcasing their dominance over the Mystics.
Leading the Scoring Charts
Sylvia Crawley, the Fire's all-time leading scorer, racked up an impressive 935 points during her time with the team. After the Fire folded, Crawley continued her basketball journey with the San Antonio Silver Stars before transitioning into a full-time coaching role.
A Small but Mighty Roster
The Portland Fire kept a tight-knit roster, with only 20 players suiting up during its three-year lifespan. Remarkably, five of these players were with the team for all three seasons, including Alisa Burras, the team's first pick in the 2000 WNBA expansion draft.
The Three-Point Queen
Jackie Stiles, one of the Fire's standout players, left an indelible mark as one of the WNBA's top three-point shooters. During her time with the team in 2001 and 2002, Stiles sank 40.6% of her three-pointers and averaged an impressive 11.4 points per game.
A Local Hero
Of the Fire's 20 all-time players, only one has deep roots in The Beaver State. Jenny Mowe, originally from California, spent her high school years in Oregon, leading Powers High School to the Class 1A state championship. She then went on to play college basketball for the Oregon Ducks, before joining the Fire in 2001 and 2002.
The Reignited Rivalry
The return of the Portland Fire promises to reignite the fierce rivalry between Portland and Seattle. With a long history of competition in various sports leagues, including the NBA, MLS, and NWSL, the two cities have a special rivalry that will undoubtedly spill over into the WNBA.
A Lopsided Victory
Despite a challenging 2000 season, the Fire managed to secure their most lopsided victory that year. On July 30, 2000, Portland dominated the Orlando Miracle, winning 76-55. It was a game to remember, with the Fire recording 14 steals and Witherspoon dropping an impressive 27 points.
Longevity Beyond the Fire
While the Portland Fire may have disbanded, two of its players went on to have successful careers well into the 2000s. DeMya Walker played until 2012 with various teams, including the Sacramento Monarchs and the Connecticut Sun. Tully Bevilaqua also had a long career, playing for the Seattle Storm and the San Antonio Silver Stars until 2012.
As we reflect on the legacy of the Portland Fire, it's clear that this team left an impact, both on the court and in the hearts of its fans. With the new team on the horizon, it's an exciting time for WNBA fans in Portland.
What are your thoughts on the Portland Fire's history? Do you think the new team can build on the legacy of its predecessor? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
