Fire name Vanja Cernivec as first general manager

Field Level Media|published: Mon 25th August, 14:27 2025

May 22, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; General view of WNBA basketballs on the bench before the game between the Seattle Storm and the Los Angeles Sparks at the Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-Imagn Images

The expansion Portland Fire announced Monday they have hired Golden State Valkyries executive Vanja Cernivec as their first general manager.

Cernivec helped to build the expansion Valkyries into the most successful expansion team in WNBA history.

The Valkyries entered Monday at 19-18 and in seventh place in the league standings, while on track to become the first expansion club ever to make the WNBA playoffs.

"Vanja is a visionary, and we are confident she will help define what this franchise can be," said Lisa Bhathal Merage, 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."

Cernivec's primary responsibilities under Golden State GM Ohemaa Nyanin included building an international roster that includes 10 players born outside of the United States.

The Fire said Cernivec will finish out the regular season with the Valkyries and begin her tenure with Portland on Sept. 15. One of her first priorities will be hiring a head coach.

"I am honored to join the Fire with a vision to build the most innovative and groundbreaking team in women's basketball," Cernivec said. "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."

Cernivec, a native of Slovenia, previously served as GM of the London Lions of Super League Basketball.

The Fire and the Toronto Tempo are set to join the WNBA in 2026.

--Field Level Media

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