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By Sam Garcia
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Portland Fire guard Sarah Ashlee Barker reportedly suffered a season-ending ACL tear during a game against the Dallas Wings on Thursday.
The Fire announced on Friday that Barker will undergo surgery to repair the injury.
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Barker exited Thursday's game with the injury after falling while trying to keep the ball inbounds and assisting Frieda Buhner's 3-pointer in the first quarter. She did not return for the remainder of the game.
Barker Shared a Heartfelt Message on Social Media
Shortly after the Fire announced the news, Barker shared a message on Instagram to her teammates, coaches and fans as she prepares to begin a long road to recovery.
"A new journey is ahead…. A journey I know I am not alone in. A journey that the Lord has placed in front of me to attack everyday. I have peace knowing the Lord will never leave nor forsake me. It’s all a part of the journey and this is one thing added to it.
"To my teammates, what I’d do to be out on the court with you all for the rest of the season. Thank you for the support you all have shown me. I genuinely do not have the words to express how much you each mean to me. There’s no one else I’d rather be out on that court with. Let’s keep proving people wrong. Next person up, that’s what we do, that’s what we’ve done all year.
#spendatshiiii
"To my coaches and all of the Portland organization, thank you for the support, the love, and comfort you have shown me throughout the last 24 hours. I am so blessed to be in Portland to start this next journey ahead. Thank you for caring for us athletes not just for basketball but us as individuals as well.
"Rose city….thank you for making this first year unforgettable. One I will hold so special in my heart. As much as I’d love to continue playing the rest of the year, God has other plans. Thank you for making me feel at home since the second I stepped foot in the fire pit. You are the anchor to our team. We’ve got more games to win. Let’s keep the fire pit lit!
"It’s time to work.
Joshua 1:9"
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Barker is currently signed to a three-year, $227,657 rookie contract. The Fire drafted her as part of the 2026 WNBA Expansion Draft in April.
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