Get ready for a thrilling journey back in time as we celebrate the legendary players who made the Portland Fire an iconic team during its initial run!
A Blast from the Past: The Portland Fire's Legacy
In an exciting turn of events, the Portland Fire is set to make its highly anticipated return to the WNBA in 2026. As we eagerly await this momentous occasion, it's the perfect time to introduce the incredible athletes who left an indelible mark on the team's history.
Let's dive into the stories of some of the Portland Fire's finest players from its inaugural years between 2000 and 2002.
Sylvia Crawley: The Fire's All-Time Leader
Standing tall at 6-foot-5, Sylvia Crawley was a force to be reckoned with. She dominated the court, leading the Fire in points, rebounds, and blocks. Her impact was felt from the very beginning, and she quickly became a fan favorite. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when the Fire folded, and she was drafted by the San Antonio Silver Stars. Unfortunately, a neck injury sidelined her for much of that season, but her career-high scoring night on June 8, 2000, remains a memorable moment for Fire fans.
But here's where it gets interesting: Crawley's story doesn't end with her playing career. She seamlessly transitioned into coaching, guiding future generations of basketball players. From North Carolina to Fordham, Ohio, and Boston College, Crawley's coaching journey is a testament to her passion for the game.
Jackie Stiles: Rookie of the Year and 3-Point Sensation
Drafted fourth overall in 2001, Jackie Stiles brought a spark of excitement to the Fire. Her selection for the WNBA All-Star Game and the prestigious Rookie of the Year award solidified her status as a standout player. Stiles' prowess as a 3-point shooter is legendary, with an impressive 40.6% success rate throughout her career. On July 28, 2001, she put on a spectacular display, scoring a career-high 32 points and sinking four 3-pointers.
And this is the part most people miss: Stiles' coaching journey began in 2012, taking on assistant roles at Loyola Marymount, Missouri State, Oklahoma, and Tulsa. Her impact extends beyond the court, inspiring the next generation of basketball stars.
DeMya Walker: From Bench Player to All-Star
DeMya Walker's story is one of perseverance and growth. Initially a bench player, she seized her opportunity in 2002, averaging impressive stats and becoming a finalist for Most Improved Player. Her top performance with the Fire came on July 10, 2002, when she scored 21 points in a thrilling victory.
After the Fire's closure, Walker's talent was recognized by the Sacramento Monarchs, who drafted her in the dispersal draft. In 2005, she reached new heights, averaging career-best stats and helping Sacramento claim the WNBA Championship. Walker's journey continued across various WNBA teams, showcasing her versatility and skill.
Alisa Burras: The Fire's First Pick
Alisa Burras holds a special place in Fire history as the team's inaugural draft pick. While she primarily played off the bench, her impact was felt in key moments. Her career-high performance on June 28, 2000, against the Cleveland Rockers, is a testament to her ability.
Following the Fire's disbandment, Burras was drafted by Seattle, where she continued her rotational role. Her dedication and contribution to the team's success are an inspiration to all.
Sophia Witherspoon: An Immediate Game Changer
Sophia Witherspoon made an immediate impact for the Fire, averaging an impressive 16.8 points per game in 2000, a record that stands to this day. Her career-high scoring night on July 2, 2000, against the Minnesota Lynx, is a memorable highlight.
Witherspoon's journey took an interesting turn when she was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks ahead of the 2002 season. She became part of the championship-winning team but saw limited court time. Her retirement after the 2003 season marked the end of a brilliant career.
Kristin Folkl: A Two-Sport Star
Kristin Folkl's story is unique, as she excelled in both volleyball and basketball at Stanford. Drafted by the Lynx in 1999, she was later traded to the Fire in 2001. In her first year, she started almost every game, showcasing her talent and versatility. In 2002, she transitioned to a bench role, still making valuable contributions.
After the Fire's closure, Folkl continued her basketball journey overseas, leaving her mark on the international stage.
Stacey Thomas: A Quality Starter
Stacey Thomas, drafted 23rd overall in 2000, quickly established herself as a starter, averaging impressive stats. However, her role shifted in 2001, and she moved to the bench. Despite this change, her impact on the team was undeniable.
Post-Fire, Thomas played for multiple WNBA teams, including the Phoenix Mercury and the Detroit Shock, winning the WNBA Championship with the latter in 2003.
Tully Bevilaqua: Franchise Record Holder
Tully Bevilaqua joined the Fire as a free agent in 2000 and quickly became a key player. She holds the franchise record for career assists and steals in a single season, a testament to her skill and consistency. One of her standout performances came on June 28, 2000, where she dominated the court with nine points, eight assists, and six steals.
After the Fire's disbandment, Bevilaqua continued her WNBA journey with Seattle and the Indiana Fever, winning championships and leaving an indelible mark on the league.
Ukari Figgs: An Important Piece of the Puzzle
Ukari Figgs spent just one year in Portland but made a significant impact on the 2002 Fire roster. She was a consistent starter, averaging impressive stats and leading the team in assists. Her career-high performance on July 25, 2002, against Sacramento, is a testament to her talent.
Following the 2002 season, Figgs was drafted by Houston and continued her starting role with the Comets. She retired from professional basketball at the end of the 2003 season.
Vanessa Nygaard: An Instant Standout
Vanessa Nygaard joined the Fire in 2000 and quickly became a standout player. She started most games that season, averaging solid stats. However, her role shifted in 2001, and she moved to the bench. Despite this change, her impact was still felt.
After the 2002 season, Nygaard transitioned into coaching, taking on assistant roles at various institutions. Her journey led her to the Las Vegas Aces, where she assisted the team, and later, she became the head coach of the Phoenix Mercury. Unfortunately, her tenure was short-lived, and she was fired after 12 games. Nygaard's coaching record stands at 17-31, but her impact on the game is undeniable.
These incredible athletes have left an indelible mark on the Portland Fire's history. As we eagerly await the team's return in 2026, let's celebrate their achievements and the legacy they've built.
So, what do you think? Who's your favorite Fire player from this list? And what impact do you think they had on the team's success? Feel free to share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!
