The Portland Thorns are kicking off a new era with siblings Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal taking the reins as the club's new controlling owners, announced at a press conference at Providence Park, OregonLive reports. RAJ Sports, an entity represented by the Bhathal family, sealed the Thorns' purchase on Jan. 3, but the duo made their media debut on Monday to lay down their vision for the celebrated soccer club.

General manager of the Thorns and president of soccer operations, Karina LeBlanc, expressed optimism about the change in ownership, "I thought, 'Oh boy, if this could be our future owner,'" she said, "'we are the winners.'" the siblings who are not new to the sports business they also hold stakes in the NBA's Sacramento Kings and several other sports franchises touted their ambition to elevate the club, with Bhathal Merage stating, "Our goal for the future for the Thorns is simple: to be the best globally. Number one. The best franchise for women’s soccer in the world," during the event attended by team staff, players, and fans, KPTV added.

Thorns forward Sophia Smith commented on the positive impact the Bhathals have already made, saying, "I think that’s the most important thing for us right now we really just want good people to represent us," and noting the lighter energy around the preseason preparations, Smith told KPTV. The Bhathals are eager to listen to and act on stakeholders' opinions with a season-long listening tour as their starting strategy, reflecting a commitment to community and fan engagement.

Bhathal Merage and her brother have pledged to hire a team president of business operations and evaluate and improve team facilities as they enter their new roles. However, their penchant for being hands-on with the team has not gone unnoticed by the players, with forward Janine Beckie admiring the siblings' presence at the team's preseason activities, calling their attendance a "testament to their commitment to this team," OregonLive included further details about their plans. With enthusiasm for the future, Commissioner Berman welcomed the Bhathals, "Each are proven leaders in the world of professional sports and beyond, and they bring so much knowledge and passion to this iconic Club," according to statements released by KATU.