PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Having an evidence-based approach was a phrase uttered countless times Tuesday during Portland Fire head coach Alex Sarama’s introductory press conference.

“My vision is to create one of the leading analytics programs in the WNBA,” said Sarama. "I truly believe we are creating something unique."

That does not mean Sarama won’t be accounting for the humans behind those numbers as well. Player autonomy is a must for the Fire's first head coach.

“For me, it starts with complete transparency with the players and having frequent and very regular conversations. I’m a huge believer that the best environments are player-led,” said Sarama.

Sarama has been leading with the Cleveland Cavaliers for the last year as the organization’s head of player development. He held the

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