What new role has Sylvia Fowles taken on in the WNBA?

Sylvia Fowles has become an assistant coach for the new WNBA expansion team, the Portland Fire.

When will the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo begin playing?

The new WNBA franchises, the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, are expected to begin play with the 2026 season.

What are Sylvia Fowles' major career achievements in the WNBA?

Sylvia Fowles is a Hall of Famer, two-time champion, four-time Defensive Player of the Year, and former MVP with eight All-Star selections.

Home / Sports / Hall of Famer Sylvia Fowles Lands Coaching Role

Hall of Famer Sylvia Fowles Lands Coaching Role

18 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Sylvia Fowles will be an assistant coach for the new Portland Fire.
Fowles was recently inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
She had opportunities with other WNBA teams but chose the Fire.

Hall of Famer Sylvia Fowles Lands Coaching Role

Basketball icon Sylvia Fowles has been appointed as an assistant coach for the upcoming Portland Fire, an expansion franchise in the WNBA. Fowles, recently enshrined in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, will join head coach Alex Sarama's staff. This move marks a significant step into coaching for the former player.

Fowles reportedly considered offers from other WNBA teams before deciding to take on the lead assistant role with the Portland Fire. The new franchise is expected to begin play with the 2026 WNBA season, pending the resolution of current collective bargaining agreement negotiations. Her decision brings considerable experience to the nascent team.

During her illustrious 15-year career, Fowles was an eight-time All-Star and a two-time WNBA champion with the Minnesota Lynx. Her defensive prowess earned her four Defensive Player of the Year awards, and she was named league MVP in 2017. She also spent her initial seven seasons with the Chicago Sky.