Katy Steding, a former professional basketball player and current assistant coach at Stanford, is thrilled about the Portland Fire's return to the WNBA in 2026. Steding, who played for the Portland Power in the ABL, believes this move will inspire a new generation of young women in Oregon to pursue basketball. She highlights the importance of having role models for young athletes, especially in a state like Oregon, where women's sports are gaining popularity. Steding's own journey, from playing for Lake Oswego High School to winning an Olympic gold medal with Team USA, showcases the potential for young athletes in the state. The Portland Fire's return to the WNBA is not just a celebration of basketball but also a testament to the community's support for women's sports. Steding's involvement in community events and her pride in being from Oregon demonstrate the power of local support in fostering a love for sports. As the Fire prepares for their debut in early May, Steding is optimistic about the future of women's basketball in Portland and the impact it will have on the next generation of athletes.
