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As the Toronto Tempo prepares for its much-anticipated inaugural season in the WNBA, the team finds itself in a unique position—still without players less than two months before their debut. Teresa Resch, the president of the franchise, emphasised that while the roster remains empty, the organisational efforts are anything but stagnant. “That doesn’t mean we’re sitting around twiddling our thumbs,” she asserted, as the Tempo navigates the complexities of an impending labour agreement that is crucial for finalising their team roster.
Navigating Uncertainty
The Tempo, alongside the Portland Fire, is awaiting the conclusion of negotiations between the WNBA and its players’ union regarding a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The existing agreement expired on October 31, 2025, and the two sides are currently in intense discussions. These negotiations, which have intensified in recent days, are vital for establishing the terms that will govern player salaries and revenue sharing, especially as WNBA viewership and franchise valuations soar.
With the 30th season set to commence on May 8, the urgency is palpable. This date not only marks the beginning of the season but also the Tempo’s first-ever game at Toronto’s Coca-Cola Coliseum against the Washington Mystics. Fans have been eagerly awaiting their own WNBA team, but the timeline for assembling a roster has been longer than many anticipated, particularly compared to the Golden State Valkyries’ smoother entry into the league.
Building the Foundation
Despite the uncertainty surrounding player acquisitions, the Tempo’s management team, which has expanded to over 40 staff members, remains focused on other integral aspects of the franchise’s launch. Resch described the experience as “a roller coaster—the most exhilarating yet terrifying thing all at the same time,” highlighting the dynamic nature of setting up a new franchise.
This week marks the arrival of a custom basketball court at the Coca-Cola Coliseum, a significant milestone in the renovation of the historic venue, which will also feature a brand-new locker room for the team. Preparations include establishing a practice facility at the University of Toronto and hiring personnel for various in-game roles. The Tempo is also organising auditions for its dance team, showcasing their commitment to creating a vibrant game-day atmosphere.
Roster Building on the Horizon
The Tempo’s leadership, including general manager Monica Wright Rogers and head coach Sandy Brondello, has been tirelessly scouting potential players, with nearly 80% of the WNBA’s existing athletes expected to enter free agency. The team’s strategic planning hinges on the resolution of the CBA, which will dictate salary cap limits and other crucial parameters for roster construction.
Resch noted that despite lacking players, the Tempo has already established itself in terms of fan engagement and social media presence, ranking mid-tier in the league for engagement. Season ticket memberships sold out quickly, and further ticket sales are scheduled for March 20 for their Cross-Canada Series, which includes matches in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.
Community Engagement and Growth
The Tempo is not only focused on the playing roster but is also building strong ties within the community. They are actively engaging with local groups and have developed a robust social media strategy to connect with fans. The franchise is set to unveil new merchandise and introduce its mascot soon, further cementing its identity in the Canadian sports landscape.
Resch expressed optimism about the team’s growth, saying, “Some days are better than others, for sure, but I think everybody is really excited to come to work every day. Because we’re building something that’s never been done before.”
Why it Matters
The establishment of the Toronto Tempo signifies a pivotal moment in Canadian sports, particularly for women’s basketball. As the first WNBA team in Canada, the Tempo not only represents an important step for the league but also serves as a beacon of opportunity for aspiring female athletes. The successful launch of the franchise could inspire a new generation of players and fans alike, highlighting the growing support for women’s sports in Canada and beyond. As the Tempo navigates these early challenges, its impact on the sport could resonate far beyond the basketball court.