WNBA pauses expansion to Portland after discussion breakdown with millionaire Kirk Brown

Portland, once seen as the favorite to become the 14th team in the WNBA, will have to wait longer for its franchise. The discussions between the league and Kirk Brown, a millionaire, have broken down, and the plans to bring a team to the city have been put on hold.

The reasons for the breakdown between the two sides are not clear. According to The Oregonian, the plans fell apart “at the 11th hour” due to issues regarding a team practice facility. Representatives of Kirk Brown have not responded to inquiries from The Oregonian as of Wednesday.

A year ago, Kirk Brown expressed his intention to bring the WNBA to Portland. In February, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert met with him, Sen. Ron Wyden, and leaders of major Oregon professional and collegiate teams.

This wouldn’t be Portland’s first time with a WNBA team. The Portland Fire played for three seasons until it ceased operations in 2002. Sources mentioned that the WNBA expansion fee was $50 million to The Oregonian.

There was much anticipation for the announcement of Portland’s inclusion, with many expecting it to happen a month after San Francisco was granted the WNBA’s 13th franchise. Engelbert revealed on October 5 that play in The Bay would commence in 2025.

The commissioner also implied future expansion in the near future. Details, such as the use of the Moda Center, were considered final points that needed to be addressed.

It remains to be seen if Kirk Brown or another party will revive or continue the discussion about Portland joining the WNBA.