10 Players Who Made the Portland Fire Special During Their Initial Run
The Portland Fire, a WNBA team that last played in 2002, is set to return in 2026. This article takes a look back at some of the standout players from the team's inaugural run, highlighting their contributions and impact.
- Sylvia Crawley (6-foot-5 forward)
Crawley was a force to be reckoned with, leading the team in points, rebounds, and blocks. Her neck injury in 2003 cut short her time with the Fire, but she left a lasting impression. Crawley's career-high 25 points on June 8, 2000, showcased her scoring prowess.
- Jackie Stiles (5-foot-8 guard)
Stiles, the 4th pick in the 2001 WNBA Draft, was a highlight for the Fire. She was named the WNBA Rookie of the Year and selected for the All-Star Game in her first year. Her 3-point shooting ability was exceptional, averaging 40.6% success rate.
- DeMya Walker (6-foot-3 forward)
Walker's improvement was remarkable, averaging 10.9 points and 5 rebounds in 2002. Her top game with the Fire was a 21-point performance against the Lynx. Walker continued her career with the Sacramento Monarchs, winning the WNBA Championship in 2005.
- Alisa Burras (6-foot-3 center)
Burras, the Fire's first-ever pick, spent three years with the team, mostly coming off the bench. She scored a career-high 22 points in a victory against the Cleveland Rockers. After the Fire folded, she played for Seattle.
- Sophia Witherspoon (5-foot-10 guard)
Witherspoon was a game-changer, averaging 16.8 points in her rookie season. Her career-high 31 points showcased her scoring ability. She was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks, contributing to their 2002 championship win.
- Kristin Folkl (6-foot-2 forward)
Folkl, a two-sport star at Stanford, was a key player for the Fire. She started most games in her first year, averaging 5.6 points and 7.7 rebounds. Her role shifted to the bench in 2002, but she continued to contribute.
- Stacey Thomas (5-foot-10 forward)
Thomas was a quality starter, averaging 5.1 points, 3.2 assists, and 1.7 steals. Her rookie season was her best, but she struggled in a bench role in 2001. Thomas played for multiple teams after the Fire's closure.
- Tully Bevilaqua (5-foot-7 guard)
Bevilaqua, a free agent signing, holds franchise records for assists and steals. Her top performance included 9 points, 8 assists, and 6 steals. She played for Seattle and Indiana Fever, winning a championship with Seattle.
- Ukari Figgs (5-foot-9 guard)
Figgs, a key player in 2002, started 31 of 32 games, averaging 8.5 points and 3.4 assists. Her career-high 22 points came against Sacramento. Figgs retired after the 2003 season, playing for Houston.
- Vanessa Nygaard (6-foot-1 forward)
Nygaard was an instant standout, starting 28 games in her rookie season. Her production dropped in 2001, but she was traded to Miami. Nygaard transitioned into coaching, working at various schools and returning to the WNBA as an assistant coach.
