The Portland Fire is rising from the ashes! In 2026, this iconic WNBA team will return to the court, rekindling the flame of basketball passion in the hearts of fans. But who were the players that made the original Fire so special? Let's take a trip down memory lane and celebrate the stars who ignited the team's initial run from 2000 to 2002.
Sylvia Crawley, a towering 6-foot-5 forward, was the ultimate all-rounder. She led the team in points, rebounds, and blocks, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise. But her journey took an unexpected turn when she was traded to the San Antonio Silver Stars, only to have her season cut short by a neck injury. And this is where it gets interesting: Crawley's coaching career began while she was still playing for the Fire, setting the stage for her future off the court.
Jackie Stiles, the 5-foot-8 guard, was a 3-point specialist. Her shooting prowess earned her a spot in the WNBA All-Star Game and the Rookie of the Year award in 2001. But here's where it gets controversial—was Stiles' impact limited to her scoring abilities? Her career-high 32 points in a single game is a testament to her talent, but some might argue that her legacy extends beyond the scoreboard.
DeMya Walker, a 6-foot-3 forward, started as a bench player but blossomed into a key contributor. In 2002, she averaged 10.9 points and 5 rebounds per game, proving that patience and perseverance pay off. After the Fire's disbandment, Walker's career soared with the Sacramento Monarchs, where she became an All-Star and a WNBA Champion.
Alisa Burras, the team's inaugural pick in the 2000 expansion draft, was a 6-foot-3 center. While her role was primarily off the bench, she had her shining moments, like scoring a game-high 22 points against the Cleveland Rockers. But was her talent fully utilized? The debate continues.
Sophia Witherspoon, a 5-foot-10 guard, was an immediate impact player. In 2000, she led the team in scoring with 16.8 points per game. Her career-high 31 points in a single game is a testament to her offensive prowess. But her time with the Fire was short-lived, as she was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks, where she became a WNBA Champion.
Kristin Folkl, a 6-foot-2 forward, was a versatile athlete. After being traded to the Fire, she started most games in her first year, showcasing her talent. But her role diminished in 2002, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
Stacey Thomas, a 5-foot-10 forward, had a promising rookie season, starting games and contributing significantly. However, her playing time decreased in the following years. Was this a strategic move or a missed opportunity? You decide.
Tully Bevilaqua, a 5-foot-7 guard, was a consistent performer. She holds franchise records for assists and steals, solidifying her place in the team's history. Her post-Fire career included a WNBA Championship with the Seattle Storm and a coaching stint with the Mercury.
Ukari Figgs, a 5-foot-9 guard, made her mark in just one season. She started 31 games and led the team in assists, proving that sometimes less is more. But was her impact enough to leave a lasting legacy?
Vanessa Nygaard, a 6-foot-1 forward, started strong in 2000 but saw her playing time decrease in subsequent years. Her journey took her to coaching, where she has made her mark. But was her playing career cut short too soon?
As we eagerly await the Portland Fire's return, let's reflect on these remarkable players. Their stories are a testament to the team's rich history and the WNBA's ever-evolving landscape. Who were your favorite Fire players, and what memories do they evoke? Share your thoughts and keep the conversation burning!
