As the Toronto Tempo gears up for its much-anticipated inaugural season, the excitement is palpable, particularly for general manager Monica Wright Rogers. The former WNBA champion has dedicated her career to basketball and is now orchestrating the launch of Canada’s first expansion franchise, set to make its official debut on May 8. After months of preparation, including assembling a competitive roster, Wright Rogers is eager to witness her vision come to fruition.
A Journey to the Top
Wright Rogers, who took on her role in February 2025, has spent the last few months meticulously constructing her team. Despite a league-wide lull this winter due to ongoing negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement, she remained proactive. Alongside assistant GM Eli Horowitz, she scouted talent across Europe, attending various off-season leagues to assess potential players. Though the restrictions prevented her from direct negotiations, she was able to connect with agents, sharing her ambitious vision for the Tempo: a fresh start in a new market.
“I had to convey the story of what we’re building here in Toronto,” she said. “These players being firsts would mean a lot for our organisation, our city, and our country.”
Building a Team from Scratch
Wright Rogers’s journey to the GM position was far from conventional. A standout high school player, she went on to excel at the University of Virginia, ultimately being selected second overall in the 2010 WNBA Draft by the Minnesota Lynx. Her tenure in the WNBA saw her clinch two championships, and she later served as the assistant GM for the Phoenix Mercury.
Her impressive résumé caught the attention of various teams, but it was Toronto’s compelling pitch that ultimately swayed her. “The interview process was incredibly engaging,” she recalled, especially the involvement of tennis legend Serena Williams, who is part of the ownership group. “She left no stone unturned, and her passion for the game is truly inspiring.”
Under the guidance of president Teresa Resch, who emphasised the importance of relationship-building in her appointment, Wright Rogers has worked tirelessly to ensure the Tempo is competitive from the outset. The franchise aims to replicate the success of the Golden State Valkyries, who made a strong entrance into the league in 2025.
A New Era in Women’s Basketball
The Tempo’s strategy reflects the evolving dynamics of the WNBA, where versatility is paramount. Wright Rogers and her team are focused on recruiting players who can adapt to various roles on the court, looking for guards capable of scoring from multiple ranges and post players who can dominate both inside and outside.
Wright Rogers also draws from her previous experiences as a player and a leader. Her background as a secretary-treasurer for the WNBA Players Association has given her a profound appreciation for the recent advancements in player rights and compensation. The recent collective bargaining agreement has paved the way for her team to sign Marina Mabrey and Brittney “Slim” Sykes, marking them as the league’s first million-dollar backcourt.
“I’m incredibly proud to be part of this milestone,” she stated. “These players have worked hard to earn their place in this league, and they deserve this recognition.”
The Road Ahead
As the team approaches its first-ever game, the Tempo staff faces the final hurdles of securing work permits for international players and finalising the roster. Wright Rogers reflects on her own journey to the WNBA, recalling the emotional memories tied to her draft night and the importance of creating a supportive environment for her players.
“All the experiences I had as a player fuel my passion in this role,” she said. “I want every player to feel valued and to enjoy their time here, just as I did.”
With the inaugural season just around the corner, the Tempo is not just about basketball; it’s about building a legacy.
Why it Matters
The launch of the Toronto Tempo signifies a crucial moment in the advancement of women’s sports in Canada. As the first expansion franchise in the WNBA, the Tempo has the potential to inspire a new generation of female athletes and fans alike. With Wright Rogers at the helm, the franchise embodies the spirit of resilience and ambition, representing a pivotal step towards greater representation and success in women’s basketball. As the league continues to grow, the success of the Tempo could pave the way for further expansion and investment in women’s sports on a global scale.
