Pac-12 Legend Joins WNBA Expansion Team

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Portland Fire have signed former Stanford star and Pac-12 co-Player of the Year Haley Jones to a one-year contract, adding depth and experience to their guard rotation as an expansion team in the WNBA.

Why it matters

Jones' signing is a significant move for the new Portland Fire franchise, as they look to build a competitive team in their inaugural season. Her championship pedigree and proven track record of success at the collegiate level could make her a key player for the Fire this year.

The details

Drafted 6th overall by the Dream in 2023, Haley Jones has already played for three different WNBA teams in just a few years. Despite the frequent changes, she has steadily improved her game, averaging career-highs in points, rebounds, and assists last season with the Phoenix Mercury and the Wings. At Stanford, Jones dominated the Pac-12, earning multiple All-Pac-12 selections and the prestigious co-Player of the Year award in 2022. She was also named the Most Outstanding Player in the NCAA championship victory in 2021.

• Haley Jones was drafted 6th overall by the Dream in 2023.
• Jones signed a one-year contract with the Portland Fire in April 2026.

What’s next

The Fire's decision to sign Jones to a one-year contract, as opposed to a training camp contract offered to other expansion draft picks, suggests a level of confidence in her abilities. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Jones adapts to her new team and whether she can help lead the Fire to success in their inaugural season.