Get ready, basketball fans, because the Portland Fire is making a blazing comeback! After a 24-year hiatus, the team is reigniting its WNBA legacy, and the excitement is palpable. But here’s where it gets even more thrilling: the 2026 season opener is set for May 9 at home against the Chicago Sky, and the schedule is packed with action you won’t want to miss.
On Wednesday, the Portland Fire unveiled its full 44-game schedule, with 22 of those games lighting up the Moda Center. To celebrate, Portlandia stars Carrie Brownstein and Fred Armisen dropped a charming short film on social media titled It’s Good to Be Back, reminding everyone just how much this team has been missed. And this is the part most people miss—the Fire isn’t just returning; they’re diving into a season filled with highlights, including seven weekend games and 15 weekday matchups at home.
One of the most anticipated moments? The Fire’s international trip to Vancouver, BC, on August 21, where they’ll face the Toronto Tempo at Rogers Arena. Tipoff is at 7 p.m. PT, so mark your calendars! But here’s where it gets controversial: the team is also competing in the Commissioner’s Cup for the first time, a mid-season tournament that could shake up the standings. From June 2-17, the Fire will battle Western Conference rivals in seven games that count toward the regular season. Four of those Cup games will be at home, with matchups against Phoenix, Las Vegas, Dallas, and Seattle. The top teams from each conference will then face off in the championship game on June 30, vying for a staggering $500,000 prize pool. Is this the Fire’s chance to make a statement, or will the competition prove too fierce?
And let’s not forget the WNBA All-Star Game, set for July 25 at Chicago’s United Center—a star-studded event that’s sure to showcase the league’s best talent. As for the Fire’s preseason schedule and broadcast details, those are still under wraps, but stay tuned for updates.
So, what do you think? Can the Portland Fire rise to the occasion after such a long absence? Will they dominate the Commissioner’s Cup, or is the competition too steep? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
