Sarah Ashlee Barker & Aaliyah Nye Acquired In WNBA Expansion

The WNBA continues to expand, adding two teams for the 2026-27 season. The league is set to grow from 12 teams in 2024 to 18 teams by 2030, with new franchises in San Francisco (Golden State Valkyries, 2025), Portland (Fire, 2026), Toronto (Tempo, 2026), Cleveland (2028), Detroit (2029), and Philadelphia (2030).

Get our free mobile app

On Friday, the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire began constructing their inaugural rosters during the league’s latest expansion draft — a two-team, two-round snake draft designed to distribute talent and create competitive balance.

Among those selected were former Alabama women's basketball stars Sarah Ashlee Barker and Aaliyah Nye. Barker, the No. 9 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA draft, spent one season with the Los Angeles Sparks before being selected by the Portland Fire.

Nye, the No. 13 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA draft, spent one season with the Las Vegas Aces and will now join the Toronto Tempo.

Both Barker and Nye saw limited playing time during their rookie seasons but will now have significant opportunities to shine with their new teams. As expansion teams, the Fire and Tempo are looking to make a statement in their inaugural years, and Barker and Nye's skills will be crucial to their success.

During their time at Alabama, Barker and Nye were known for their exceptional 3-point shooting and defensive prowess. As they continue to develop in their professional careers, both players are poised to make a significant impact on their respective teams and the WNBA as a whole.

Full rosters below:

Portland Fire selections

First round:

Bridget Carleton

Cala Leite

Luisa Geiselsoder

Emily Engstler

Maya Caldwell

Chloe Bibby

Second round:

Haley Jones

Nyadiew Puoch