One of the most accomplished and influential players in WNBA history joins the Portland Fire as an assistant coach ahead of the 2026 inaugural season.
PORTLAND, Ore. — Hall of Famer Sylvia Fowles has joined the Portland Fire as an assistant coach.
One of the most accomplished and influential players in WNBA history, Fowles was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in 2025.
A two-time WNBA champion, two-time Finals MVP, 2017 WNBA MVP, eight-time All-Star, four-time Defensive Player of the Year and a member of the WNBA’s Top 25 Players of All Time, Fowles dominated the court during her 15-season career. She is also a two-time Olympic gold medalist.
“Sylvia is a legend of the game,” said Fire head coach Alex Sarama. “Her experience, leadership, and understanding of the league will be critical as we continue to build the identity of this team and design our principles of play. Sylvia sets an elite standard, has a deep connection to this league, and brings a player-first perspective that will elevate everyone in our program.”
Fowles retired from the WNBA in 2022 as the league’s all-time leading rebounder.
“Returning to the league that shaped me, now as an assistant coach with the Portland Fire, is truly special,” Fowles said. “When I retired, my hope was for a brighter, more powerful future for this league and its players. Now, I get to help turn that vision into a reality in Portland.”
She is the latest addition to the Fire’s coaching staff as the team prepares for its 2026 tipoff.