Karina LeBlanc, the previous general manager for the Thorns who now serves as a vice president for RAJ Sports, was in attendance at last week's groundbreaking. Photo: Courtesy of RAJ Sports
The owners of the Thorns and the yet-to-be-named WNBA team broke ground on a new joint training facility in Hillsboro last week, with the goal of opening early next year.
The big picture: Portland is doubling down on its bet to be the epicenter of women's sports.
RAJ Sports, led by siblings Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal, is spearheading the $150 million, multi-phase project.
It will feature more than 63,000 square feet of training space with a basketball practice gym, two full-sized soccer pitches, plus wellness and conditioning amenities for the athletes.
What they're saying: "This facility is for every young girl in Portland and beyond who dreams of playing at the highest level and sees that it's not only possible, but it's happening right here," Bhathal Merage said in a written statement.
What's next: Construction of the 12-acre repurposed office park is set to begin soon.
