ABOUT PORTLAND FIRE:
Professional women’s basketball is returning to Portland. On September 18, 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) awarded Portland its 15th franchise, bringing the league back to the city for the first time in over two decades. Owned and operated by the Bhathal family through RAJ Sports, the team will make its official debut in 2026 at the Moda Center. Portland is cementing itself as the epicenter of women’s sports, powered by a passionate fan base and a rich basketball culture. At Portland Fire, we’re building more than a team, we’re creating a modern, inclusive, and community-driven organization from the ground up. With innovation, integrity, and excellence at our core, our mission is to set a new standard in women’s professional basketball - delivering excellence on the court, inspiring fans, and serving the city we call home. As we prepare for our inaugural season, we’re looking for passionate, driven professionals to help shape the future of this franchise and the future of the game.
THE ROLE:
The Communications Coordinator will play a key role in executing basketball and business communications that enhance the team’s visibility, media presence, and overall success. This position supports media relations, game operations, and promotional initiatives, helping elevate the organization’s overall communications strategy. The ideal candidate is an organized, detail-oriented communicator with a passion for women’s basketball.
WHAT YOU’LL BE UP TO:
- Oversee gameday media materials, including game notes, statistical reports, and clips for media, coaches, and staff.
- Manage all media and internal credential requests for home games, including processing and distribution.
- Create and distribute visiting team packets, including statistical information and credentials.
- Assemble media kits and talking points for radio and television promotions and assist with distribution alongside a supervisor.
- Support media management and coordinate player interviews during practices.
- Assist with media check-in, statistical distribution, press conference setup, and press box/courtside operations during home games.
- Play a key role in postgame operations, including compiling and distributing postgame notes, transcribing player and coach interviews, and sharing materials with media and internal stakeholders in a timely manner.
- Draft and distribute press releases and media advisories across both basketball and business initiatives, including team events, corporate announcements, partnerships, community programs, and internal communications, ensuring alignment with overall organizational strategy.
- Participate in creating seasonal publications and content, including award submissions, award campaigns, and media guides.
- Track and compile daily and game-by-game media coverage.
- Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE ON OUR TEAM:
- Sports communications experience, WNBA or NBA preferred.
- Strong desire to build a career with a team that has ample opportunity for growth
- Strong work ethic, coachable, competitive, and a positive attitude
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work as a great teammate
- Maintain a professional manner and can interact with all levels of the organization
- Prepared to work flexible and irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.
BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- Dynamic, collaborative and fun work environment
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the growth of women's basketball
