The Portland Fire, one of two WNBA expansion teams scheduled to launch for the 2026 season, have hired Alex Sarama as head coach. The hiring was leaked on social media earlier this week before being made official on Friday.
Sarama, who was assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers, subscribes to an innovative training system – CLA (constraints-led approach) – popular in European basketball and will bring it to the WNBA. Sarama authored the book “Transforming Basketball” about the theory.
“The opportunity to build something from the ground up is unique,” Sarama said in a statement released by the team. “At the Fire, we’re not just creating a team — we’re redefining how the game is taught and played, through an approach centered around adaptability and supported by evidence-informed methodologies.
“Fans can expect a dynamic, up-tempo style of play.”
Sarama also coached the London Lions, Paris Basketball and the RipCity Remix.
“Alex represents the next generation of coaching,” Fire general manager Vanja Černivec said. “He’s not just teaching the game, he’s transforming it. His approach to player development, grounded in evidence-based science, research and creativity, aligns with our vision to make Portland a global hub for innovation in women’s sports.”
The Fire and Toronto Tempo will join the WNBA in expansion next season. Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029) and Philadelphia (2030) will bring the league to 18 teams.
