The Portland franchise of the WNBA recently saw the dismissal of its president, Inky Son, just weeks before a significant launch. This decision was attributed to the challenges the team faced as it prepared for its debut, which included considerable “growing pains” and a “rocky” rollout, according to a report by The Oregonian. The team had been using its social media to build anticipation, notably announcing a countdown starting June 20 for a key reveal on July 15, likely the unveiling of the team’s name. Despite inquiries, the WNBA did not provide immediate comments regarding Son’s termination.
Inky Son, who was appointed on April 1, became the first employee of the Portland franchise. Before her role in Portland, she served as the chief administrative officer for the National Basketball Players Association. Upon her hiring, Son expressed enthusiasm about reviving a WNBA team in Portland, a city known for its passion for basketball and support for women’s sports. She emphasized her commitment to fostering a winning culture for players, staff, and fans alike.
Mike Whitehead, managing director of RAJ Sports, which oversees the Portland WNBA franchise, previously highlighted his confidence in Son’s leadership. He underscored her importance as the inaugural employee in creating a foundation for the organization’s future success. Whitehead’s statements indicated a strong belief that Son’s guidance would significantly influence not only the team’s trajectory but also its impact within the broader WNBA community.
Son’s role encompassed a wide range of responsibilities vital for the team’s establishment, including overseeing marketing, ticket and sponsorship sales, community relations, finance, legal aspects, and human resources. Her diverse skill set was expected to play a crucial role in navigating the complexities of launching a new franchise in a competitive sports environment.
The decision to part ways with Son may reflect the pressures involved in building a new team from the ground up, particularly in a league that emphasizes community engagement and market presence. As the franchise prepares for its entry into the WNBA, maintaining stability and continuity in leadership will be essential to ensure a successful debut and long-term viability.
As the Portland franchise approaches its launch date, the focus will undoubtedly shift to finding a new leader who can embody the vision and objectives initially outlined by Son. The upcoming weeks and months will be critical for the organization as it aims to establish its identity and secure a loyal fan base in a city eager for WNBA basketball.
