The Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo are both expansion teams, but their approaches could not be more different. The Fire, led by head coach Alex Sarama, focused on development and youth when building their roster. In contrast, the Tempo prioritized immediate success, opting for a more experienced and veteran lineup. However, on May 23, 2026, at Coca-Cola Coliseum, the young upstarts from Portland stunned their expansion sisters with a decisive 99-80 victory.
Game Recap: Fire Dominate Fourth Quarter
Despite entering the game as 4.5-point underdogs, the Fire hung tough for three quarters before taking control in the fourth. They started the final period with a five-point lead and quickly extended it to 19, cruising to a comfortable win. Portland's three-point shooting was a key factor, as they connected on 50% of their attempts from beyond the arc, compared to Toronto's dismal 23% (5-for-22).
Key Performers
The Fire had five players score in double figures, led by Emily Engstler and Megan Gustafson with 19 points each. For the Tempo, young point guard Kiki Rice and veteran Marina Mabrey also scored 19 apiece, while Brittney Sykes managed just 10 points, well below her season average.
Tempo Struggles Continue
The loss came on the heels of a 100-72 defeat to the Minnesota Lynx, marking the first time Toronto has lost consecutive games this season. The Tempo were without three regulars: point guard Julie Allemand (groin strain), Temi Fagbenle (sprained AC joint), and Isabelle Harrison (right thumb dislocation). Center Nyara Sabally also played limited minutes due to a neck strain. Despite these absences, head coach Sandy Brondello refused to use injuries as an excuse.
Looking Ahead
The Tempo will look to bounce back when they visit the Chicago Sky on Wednesday. The Fire, meanwhile, continue to prove that youth and development can compete with veteran experience in the WNBA. As the season progresses, both expansion teams will aim to build on their contrasting philosophies.
