Why a WNBA franchise dedicated to empowering women opted for a male head coach

Portland Fire introduce new head coach, promising ‘evidence-based’ approach to basketball

While they made sure to not give away too much information about what was in store for the city’s new WNBA franchise, the Portland Fire formally introduced coach Alex Sarama on Tuesday morning.

Fire coach praises Portland’s passionate basketball fans and social justice values

Alex Sarama is new to the WNBA. He's new to being a head coach of a pro basketball team. But he's not new to Portland and he said he's happy to be back in town.

'The Best Environments Are Player-Led': Portland Fire Introduce First Head Coach Alex Sarama

PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Portland Fire formally introduced their first head coach, Alex Sarama, as he enters a new era of women’s basketball in the Rose City. After assisting the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sarama makes the transition to the WNBA to lead the Fire when they debut in 2026. With a new leader at