PORTLAND, OR – The Portland WNBA franchise faces uncertainty as its president departs just months before the league’s expansion draft.
Breaking: Leadership Change at Portland WNBA Team
The Portland WNBA team has parted ways with its president, Inky Son, only two months into her tenure. This announcement comes as the team prepares for its official brand launch next month. A joint statement from RAJ Sports and Son indicated her departure was voluntary, yet reports from The Oregonian suggest she was fired.
“During her brief but impactful tenure, Son helped lay the foundation for the franchise’s presence in Portland,” the statement read.
Immediate Impact on Team Operations
Son’s exit leaves a leadership vacuum as the franchise gears up for its debut. Former Nike executive Clare Hamill will step in as interim president. Hamill brings nearly five decades of experience from Nike, including a role as VP of Nike women’s business.
The timing is particularly significant because the team is amidst preparations for its brand launch and the upcoming WNBA expansion draft.
Key Details Emerge
The Portland franchise is yet to finalize critical hires such as a general manager and a coach. According to sources familiar with the situation, several candidates have declined the GM position. Meanwhile, the team has announced surpassing 10,000 season ticket deposits, indicating strong local interest despite internal challenges.
10,000 season ticket deposits have been secured, signaling robust community support.
Industry Response and Comparisons
In contrast, the Toronto Tempo, the other new WNBA team, appears to have a smoother start. They have successfully filled key positions, including general manager, assistant general manager, and president roles. The Tempo is actively scouting for the draft and has already hired over 20 front office staff.
This development builds on the Tempo’s proactive approach to their franchise launch, setting a benchmark for new teams entering the league.
Background Context: Portland’s WNBA Journey
The rebirth of a WNBA team in Portland follows the collapse of an initial expansion bid by prospective owner Kirk Brown. The WNBA officially announced Portland as its 15th franchise in September 2024, under the ownership of Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal through RAJ Sports.
Reports have indicated past tensions between Brown and the league, with planned renovations to the Moda Center playing a role in the initial bid’s failure.
What Comes Next for Portland’s WNBA Franchise?
The Portland franchise is expected to announce several staffing hires in the coming weeks. The move represents a significant shift from the initial leadership strategy, indicating an urgent need to stabilize the team’s administration before the season begins in less than 11 months.
According to sources, the team is under pressure to finalize its leadership and coaching staff to ensure competitive readiness for the upcoming season.
The timing of these developments is crucial as the league’s expansion draft looms, and the franchise must navigate these challenges to secure its place in the competitive landscape of professional women’s basketball.
