The return of the WNBA to Portland, Oregon, after a two-decade hiatus is a significant moment for the city's sports landscape. The Portland Fire, an expansion team, made its highly anticipated debut, and the atmosphere at the Moda Center was electric.
The crowd, announced as a sellout of 19,335, was louder than any post-pandemic Blazers crowd, with the exception of Damian Lillard's return to Portland with the Bucks. The Fire's home court and jerseys were a visual treat, and the celebrity presence, including Blazers players and musician Carrie Brownstein, added to the buzz.
However, the basketball itself was a bit rough around the edges. The Fire, playing their first-ever game, faced a talented Chicago Sky team with playoff aspirations. Despite a 13-point halftime deficit, the Fire showed glimpses of potential, narrowing the gap before ultimately succumbing to a 98-83 loss.
Head coach Alex Sarama expressed encouragement, acknowledging the ongoing process of implementing his principles. The team's performance, while competitive, highlighted the talent gap between an expansion squad and an established contender.
Despite the loss, the evening was a showcase of all the reasons why this WNBA season in Portland is highly anticipated. The Moda Center was alive with energy, and the Fire's debut provided a glimpse into the potential excitement of the upcoming four months.
As a fan, I'm excited to see how the Fire progresses under Sarama's guidance. The team's journey this season promises to be an intriguing one, and I, for one, am ready for the ride.
