Today, the Portland Fire announced Vanja Černivec as the franchise’s new General Manager. Beginning September 15, 2025, she will oversee all basketball operations, including the search for a head coach, roster building, and player development.
“Vanja is a visionary, and we are confident she will help define what this franchise can be,” said Lisa Bhathal Merage, Portland Fire Co-Owner and Governor. “As a foundational leader in this new chapter for the Fire, she brings the experience, integrity, and passion for advancing the women’s game that this moment demands.”
Černivec joins Portland after serving as Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Golden State Valkyries. Since July 2024, she guided the new franchise through its inaugural season, led scouting for both the expansion and WNBA Drafts, and supported staff hiring across basketball operations.
“I am honored to join the Fire with a vision to build the most innovative and groundbreaking team in women’s basketball,” said Černivec. “Portland is a city with a deep passion for the game, and I want this team to reflect that energy in this new era – rooted in legacy, fueled by passion, and driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence.”
Her career includes leadership roles with the London Lions, where she helped the women’s team capture the FIBA EuroCup Women’s title and back-to-back British league championships. She also spent six years with the NBA globally and became the Chicago Bulls’ first female international scout in 2020.
As the Fire continue their return to the court, Černivec’s leadership arrives at a moment of excitement. The team has already surpassed 13,000 season ticket deposits following the unveiling of its brand identity.