As the Toronto Tempo gears up for its highly anticipated debut in the WNBA, General Manager Monica Wright Rogers is buzzing with excitement. The former WNBA player, a two-time champion, has been hard at work assembling a competitive roster for Canada’s first expansion franchise, set to tip off on May 8. After months of preparation and anticipation, the sounds of basketball practice resonate through the gym, signalling the dawn of a new era for women’s professional basketball in Toronto.
Building a Foundation
Wright Rogers, who took on the GM role in February 2025, has faced unique challenges in the lead-up to the season. With WNBA business at a standstill due to negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement, she was unable to engage with potential players for her team until recently. Nevertheless, she remained proactive, travelling across Europe to scout talent and share her vision of establishing a pioneering franchise in a brand-new market.
“I had to start telling the story of what we’re building here,” Wright Rogers explained. “These players being firsts would be a forever thing for our organisation, the city, and the country.”
Her efforts paid off, culminating in the recruitment of notable players, including Marina Mabrey and Brittney “Slim” Sykes, who became the WNBA’s first million-dollar backcourt. This momentous signing marked a significant achievement not just for the Tempo, but for the league as a whole.
A Unique Perspective
Wright Rogers’ journey to the GM position is a testament to her resilience and dedication to the sport. Growing up in a military family, she moved frequently before settling in Woodbridge, Virginia, where she honed her basketball skills. Her collegiate career at the University of Virginia was distinguished, earning her accolades as the national defensive player of the year. Drafted second overall by the Minnesota Lynx in 2010, she clinched two WNBA titles during her illustrious career, before transitioning into coaching and management roles.
Her experience as a former player offers invaluable insights into the demands of the game, which is something her team has greatly benefited from. “As a player, you always like to be coached by and around former players,” said Kiki Rice, the Tempo’s first draft selection. “They know what it’s like on a day-to-day basis, which is a really big advantage.”
Cultivating Connections
Wright Rogers’ leadership style hinges on relationship-building, a quality that was highlighted by team president Teresa Resch during her introductory press conference. With a focus on creating a cohesive environment, Wright Rogers has fostered strong connections with players and staff alike, ensuring their voices are heard as the team prepares for the season ahead.
“The goal is for this to be a great experience,” she remarked, reflecting on her vision for the organisation. “All the things that stuck with me from being a player, I pull on those things in this job often.”
The Tempo’s coaching staff, including head coach Sandy Brondello, also boasts a wealth of playing experience, further enhancing the team’s dynamic. This unique blend of leadership has positioned the Tempo to make a significant impact in their inaugural season.
Overcoming Challenges
While the Tempo has made significant strides in assembling their roster, there is still a mountain of work ahead. With logistics such as securing work permits for players and finalising cuts to the roster, the pressure is mounting as the inaugural game approaches. Yet, Wright Rogers remains undeterred, drawing on her extensive background in basketball management and the lessons learned throughout her career.
“Half my job is corporate. Half my job is high-fiving players every day, so it’s a perfect fit for my skillset,” she stated confidently.
As the Tempo prepares to take the court, the anticipation is palpable. The franchise’s success will be closely watched, not just for its impact on the local basketball landscape but also for what it signifies in the broader context of women’s sports.
Why it Matters
The Toronto Tempo’s inaugural season heralds a new chapter for women’s professional basketball in Canada, offering a platform for female athletes to shine in a sport that has been historically underrepresented. Monica Wright Rogers’ role as both a former player and a woman of colour in a leadership position is groundbreaking, inspiring the next generation of athletes and executives. The success of the Tempo could pave the way for future expansion efforts within the WNBA and beyond, ultimately contributing to the growth and recognition of women’s sports on a global scale.
