Fire Department in Portland appoints Vanja Cernivec as General Manager, following a successful season with the Valkyries.
Portland Fire Appoints Basketball Veteran Vanja Cernivec as First General Manager
The Portland Fire, a new WNBA team, has made a significant move in its quest to establish a competitive presence in the league. Vanja Cernivec, a renowned figure in women's basketball, has been appointed as the team's first General Manager, effective from September 15.
Cernivec brings a wealth of experience and a passion for advancing the women's game to her new role. Her global basketball resume includes stints as the General Manager of the London Lions women's team and serving as Global Director of Academy for Super League Basketball.
Most notably, Cernivec was the Chicago Bulls' first female international scout from 2020 to 2022 and spent six years with the NBA, working on the NBA Academy Women's Program and serving as technical director for Basketball Without Borders camps.
In her new role, Cernivec will oversee all basketball operations for the Portland Fire, including hiring the inaugural head coach and assembling the roster. Portland Fire co-owner and governor, Lisa Bhathal Merage, expressed confidence that Cernivec will help define what the franchise can be.
The Portland Fire's vision under Cernivec is rooted in legacy, fueled by passion, and driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Cernivec aims to reflect the city's deep passion for basketball in the new era of the team.
The city of Portland has shown its support for the team, with more than 13,000 season-ticket deposits since the unveiling of its name and brand identity.
Meanwhile, the WNBA's newest franchise, the Golden State Valkyries, have been a surprise of the 2025 season, posting 19 wins in their debut campaign, the most ever by an expansion club. The Valkyries are currently in the playoff picture with two weeks left in the regular season.
Cernivec currently serves as Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Golden State Valkyries. Her desire is to build the most innovative and groundbreaking team in women's basketball for the Portland Fire.
A native of Slovenia, Cernivec holds degrees in international relations and sports marketing. With her extensive experience in the NBA and women's basketball, she is well-positioned to lay the foundation for a Portland Fire franchise designed to be competitive from day one in the 2026 WNBA season.
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