The WNBA offseason trades are just beginning, with teams already figuring out their best lineups. The coaching staff is also on the agenda, as a few teams are looking to define their directions. Expansion teams like the Portland Fire come in with a clean slate and will look for immediate impact on the league.
After some notable transactions, including the New York Liberty’s firing of Sandy Brondello and the Dallas Wings’ firing of Chris Koclanes, there are already experienced candidates available in the market. However, the franchise opted for a familiar face, Alex Sarama, to lead them in the league.
Portland Fire Hires Alex Sarama As Head Coach
Basketball is back in the Rose City as the Portland Fire will begin their WNBA campaign in the 2026 season. After announcing the name of the franchise and appointing the board, the next step was to start with the back office, including the coaching staff.
On October 14, the franchise confirmed the hiring of Alex Sarama as its first head coach. Even though the final declaration is due, WNBA reporter Annie Costabile confirms the news. “The Portland Fire prematurely announced NBA assistant Alex Sarama as the franchise’s head coach on LinkedIn Tuesday AM. Multiple sources told me that while a contract has not yet been finalized, Sarama is expected to be announced in the coming days,” Costabile wrote in her ‘X’ post.
The Portland Fire prematurely announced NBA assistant Alex Sarama as the franchise's head coach on LinkedIn Tuesday AM.
— Annie Costabile (@AnnieCostabile) October 14, 2025
Multiple sources told me that while a contract has not yet been finalized, Sarama is expected to be announced in the coming days. https://t.co/kzrinta313
Sarama might be a new name to WNBA fans, but the experienced coach has worked as an assistant for the Cleveland Cavaliers and also led the Portland Trail Blazers’ G-League team, Rip City Remix. The Englishman also has overseas experience with leagues in England, France, and Italy.
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The franchise already appointed another known name, Ashley Battle, as vice president of operations and will now be ready to expand before the 2026 season.
Portland Fire Looking At A Strong Start To WNBA Campaign
The Golden State Valkyries’ exceptional first season in the WNBA is now a benchmark for the upcoming teams. Natalie Nakase won the Coach of the Year accolade, leading the team to the playoffs in its first season. Although the Valkyries’ journey ended in the first round, they made their mark on the league as a resilient team.
The Portland Fire will be looking for similar output with another NBA-experienced coach in the league. The new CBA deal would allow them to attract the top talent, with many players already entering free agency. The 2026 WNBA draft class also has many skilled young players, which would allow them to field a stronger team.