The Portland Fire is set to reignite the passion of basketball fans in 2026, but let's rewind to the team's initial blaze of glory. Prepare to be captivated by the stories of 10 players who left an indelible mark on the franchise during its inaugural run from 2000 to 2002. But first, a bold statement: these players were the fiery core of a team that burned bright, even if only for a short while.
Sylvia Crawley, a towering 6-foot-5 forward, was the ultimate trailblazer. She led the Fire in points, rebounds, and blocks, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise. But here's where it gets controversial—after the Fire's demise, Crawley's career took a different turn. She was traded to the San Antonio Silver Stars, but a neck injury became a roadblock, limiting her playing time. Despite this, she holds the distinction of being a dual-team player, having represented both the Fire and the Portland Power.
Jackie Stiles, the 5-foot-8 guard sensation, was the Fire's shining star in 2001. Selected as the No. 4 pick in the WNBA Draft, she lit up the court with her 3-point prowess, securing the WNBA Rookie of the Year award. And this is the part most people miss—Stiles' impact went beyond the court. She later transitioned into coaching, leaving her mark on multiple teams.
DeMya Walker, a 6-foot-3 forward, started as a bench player but soon became a force to be reckoned with. In 2002, she averaged an impressive 10.9 points and 5 rebounds per game, earning her a Most Improved Player finalist nomination. Her journey continued with the Sacramento Monarchs, where she achieved career highs and a WNBA Championship.
Alisa Burras, the 6-foot-3 center, holds the honor of being the Fire's inaugural draft pick. While her playing time was primarily off the bench, she had her moments of brilliance, like scoring a game-high 22 points in 2000.
Sophia Witherspoon, a 5-foot-10 guard, was an immediate impact player. In 2000, she averaged an astonishing 16.8 points per game, becoming the Fire's single-season scoring leader. Her career-high 31 points in the same year showcased her prowess.
Kristin Folkl, a 6-foot-2 forward, was a dual-sport talent. She joined the Fire in 2001 and made an immediate impact, starting most games and contributing solid numbers. Her career took her overseas after the Fire's closure.
Stacey Thomas, a 5-foot-10 forward, was a rookie sensation. Her first season was her best, averaging 5.1 points, 3.2 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. She went on to play for multiple teams, including the 2003 WNBA Championship-winning Detroit Shock.
Tully Bevilaqua, the 5-foot-7 guard, was a consistent performer for the Fire. She holds franchise records for assists and steals, showcasing her all-around skills. Her post-Fire career included two WNBA Championships with different teams, solidifying her legacy.
Ukari Figgs, a 5-foot-9 guard, was a key player in the 2002 season. She started 31 games, leading the team in assists. Her career-high 22 points in that season were a testament to her talent.
Vanessa Nygaard, a 6-foot-1 forward, started strong in 2000 but saw her playing time diminish in subsequent seasons. She later transitioned into coaching, making her mark on various teams, including the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury.
These players were the heart and soul of the Portland Fire's initial journey. Their stories are a testament to the team's impact and the league's evolution. As the Fire prepares for its return, these legends will undoubtedly be a source of inspiration. What do you think about these players and their contributions? Do you have a favorite among them? Share your thoughts and keep the conversation burning!
