The WNBA’s newest team is already making waves—but not in the way they hoped. In a surprising turn of events, the Portland Fire accidentally leaked their head coaching hire on LinkedIn before making it official. Yes, you read that right. The team, set to join the league in 2026 alongside the Toronto Tempo, seems to have jumped the gun in a major way. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: despite the leak, there’s still no formal announcement as of this writing. What’s the holdup? And this is the part most people miss—this isn’t the Fire’s first rodeo in the WNBA. The team originally joined the league in 2000 but folded just two years later. Now, they’re back, and the stakes feel higher than ever.
According to a report by Front Office Sports, the Fire’s official LinkedIn account prematurely revealed that Alex Sarama, currently an assistant coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers, will be taking the helm as the franchise’s first head coach. The post was swiftly deleted, but the internet never forgets. Sources indicate that while no contract has been finalized, Sarama’s appointment is all but confirmed. Before his stint with the Cavaliers, Sarama served as an assistant coach and director of player development for the Rip City Remix, the Portland Trail Blazers’ G League affiliate. His resume is solid, but the question remains: can he lead the Fire to success in a league that’s evolved dramatically since their last appearance?
Here’s where it gets controversial: Expanding the WNBA to an odd number of teams (15, to be exact) has raised eyebrows. Is this a strategic move or a logistical headache? And let’s not forget the ongoing CBA negotiations, which have left expansion teams like the Fire and Tempo in a state of uncertainty. Will these challenges overshadow their debut season? Or could this accidental leak be a blessing in disguise, sparking early buzz around the team?
One thing’s for sure: the Portland Fire’s journey back to the WNBA is anything but ordinary. Whether this leak was a misstep or a clever PR move, it’s clear that all eyes are on them. But here’s the real question for you: Do you think the Fire can rise from the ashes this time around, or is history doomed to repeat itself? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss.
