Whether you’re an athlete, a passionate sports fan, or just looking for an exciting local event, Portland’s sports teams bring unmatched energy to the city. While newcomers moving to Portland may notice the absence of an NFL team, the city makes up for it with a fierce college football rivalry and an incredibly loyal fan base for soccer, basketball, hockey, baseball, and even roller derby. Portlanders take their sports seriously, and the beer served at these games—often from some of the best microbreweries in the country—only adds to the experience. With a long history of dedicated and passionate fans, Portland’s sports teams boast a competitive streak nearly as long as the Columbia River.

Stumptown’s pride includes NBA, MLS, and NWSL teams, each with impressive followings. Portland is home to top-tier basketball, soccer, hockey, minor league baseball, college football, arena football, and one of the best roller derby leagues in the country. Whether you’re cheering at a packed stadium or enjoying a local rivalry game, newcomers quickly learn that relocating to Portland means joining one of the most passionate sports cities in the U.S.

Portland Trail Blazers – NBA Basketball

Moda Center, One Center Court, Portland, OR 97227
503-234-9291 | Visit Website

The Portland Trail Blazers, or simply The Blazers, are a fundamental part of life in Portland’s sports scene. Playing in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference, this team held the longest streak for consecutive sold-out games from 1977 to 1995. That dedication proves Blazer fans are die-hard and aren’t afraid to show it. They won the NBA Championship in 1977 and have made multiple NBA Finals appearances. Newcomers moving to Portland will quickly see that supporting the Blazers is almost a rite of passage.

Portland Timbers – MLS Soccer

Providence Park, 1844 SW Morrison, Portland, OR 97205
503-553-5400 | Visit Website

Soccer is king in Portland, and the Portland Timbers are proof of that. Winners of the 2015 MLS Cup, the Timbers have a history dating back to 1975 and officially joined Major League Soccer in 2009. With Portland’s sports teams being known for intense fan loyalty, few compare to Timbers fans, who have earned Portland the nickname “Soccer City, USA.” Newcomers can witness the famous victory log-cutting tradition, where a round is cut from a massive log each time the Timbers score a goal at home.

Portland Thorns FC – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)

Providence Park, 1844 SW Morrison, Portland, OR 97205
503-553-5555 | Visit Website

Women’s soccer in Portland is just as exciting as the men’s game. The Portland Thorns FC, founded in 2012, are one of only two NWSL teams affiliated with Major League Soccer and were the inaugural NWSL Champions in 2013. With record-breaking attendance and an electric atmosphere at every game, the Thorns embody the passion behind Portland’s sports teams.

Hillsboro Hops – Minor League Baseball

Ron Tonkin Field, 4460 NW 229th Avenue, Hillsboro, OR 97124
503-640-0887 | Visit Website

Just outside Portland, newcomers relocating to Portland will find top-tier minor league baseball with the Hillsboro Hops. The Hops, an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have won multiple Northwest League Championships and play in a modern, family-friendly stadium with a beer garden—perfect for enjoying a game on a summer evening.

Portland Winterhawks – Western Hockey League (WHL)

Memorial Coliseum & Moda Center, 300 North Winning Way, Portland, OR 97227
503-238-6366 | Visit Website

Hockey fans in Portland’s sports scene will love the Portland Winterhawks, a WHL team known for developing NHL talent. Having won multiple league championships and two Memorial Cups, the Winterhawks offer a thrilling live sports experience that newcomers won’t want to miss.

Portland State Vikings – College Sports

Multiple Venues – Portland State University
503-725-4000 | Visit Website

Representing Portland’s sports teams in NCAA competition, the Portland State Vikings provide year-round excitement. From football games at Providence Park to basketball, wrestling, and track & field, there’s always something happening in the Portland State athletics scene.

Oregon Ducks – College Football

Autzen Stadium, University of Oregon Athletic Department, Eugene, OR
541-346-4481 | Visit Website

Although not in Portland, the Oregon Ducks football team has one of the most passionate followings in the state. If you’re moving to Portland, you’ll quickly learn about the Ducks vs. Beavers rivalry, known as the Civil War, one of the oldest college football rivalries in the country.

Oregon State Beavers – College Football

Reser Stadium, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
541-737-7373 | Visit Website

The Oregon State Beavers have a rich football history and a dedicated fan base. Whether you root for the Ducks or Beavers, choosing a side is practically required for newcomers relocating to Portland.

Rose City Rollers – Roller Derby

The Hangar at Oaks Amusement Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way, Portland, OR 97202
503-784-1444 | Visit Website

If you like your sports intense and full of action, Portland’s own Rose City Rollers offer a thrilling experience. This all-female, flat-track roller derby league is a Portland sports team like no other, with national championships under their belt and a mission of empowering women through sport.

Why Newcomers Moving to Portland Will Love Portland’s Sports Teams

For newcomers moving to Portland, the city’s sports culture is one of its most exciting aspects. From the NBA’s Trail Blazers to MLS soccer, minor league baseball, and one of the fiercest college football rivalries in the nation, Portland’s sports teams bring communities together and create unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re catching a game at Providence Park, cheering at the Moda Center, or watching a Ducks vs. Beavers showdown, sports in Portland offer something for everyone.