The Portland Fire added former WNBA MVP and four-time Defensive Player of the Year Sylvia Fowles as an assistant coach, according to a team press release. Following a storied playing career with the Chicago Sky and Minnesota Lynx, Fowles joins the Fire ready to debut as a coach. She is the latest addition to head coach Alex Sarama’s staff as the preparations for Portland’s debut season continue.

“Sylvia is a legend of the game,” Sarama said in a statement. “Her experience, leadership, and understanding of the league will be critical as we continue to build the identity of this team and design our principles of play. Sylvia sets an elite standard, has a deep connection to this league, and brings a player-first perspective that will elevate everyone in our program.”

Fowles racked up many awards as a player, including two championships and Finals MVPs, two Olympic gold medals, and two FIBA World Cup gold medals. She was also an eight-time All-Star. Fowles finished her WNBA career as the league’s all-time leading rebounder and was recognized with eight All-Defensive team selections. Her playing career has also been recognized globally, as she was named a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer in 2025. She has become one of the most respected players in the game, and her knowledge will be a luxury as she begins a new journey in Portland.

“Returning to the league that shaped me, now as an assistant coach with the Portland Fire, is truly special,” Fowles said in a statement. “When I retired, my hope was for a brighter, more powerful future for this league and its players. Now, I get to help turn that vision into a reality in Portland.”

Fowles is the latest addition to Sarama’s staff, joining former NBA coach Brittni Donaldson. While Donaldson will serve in dual roles as an assistant General Manager and assistant coach, Fowles will have her one role as an assistant coach. Despite Portland hiring its coaching staff, its roster construction remains a mystery with the ongoing CBA Negotiations. With the current deadline set for January 9th to agree to a new CBA, all the Fire can do is wait for a resolution. Although Portland will be waiting to take the court, its latest coaching hire in Fowles was a surefire slam dunk.