The Toronto Tempo, the newest franchise in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), is officially in full swing as they kick off their inaugural training camp. With the excitement palpable in the air, Canadian basketball icon Kia Nurse has signed on as the team’s first-ever Canadian player, marking a significant milestone in her career and for women’s sports in Canada. The Tempo will spend the coming weeks solidifying their roster ahead of their much-anticipated season opener on May 8.
A Historic Training Camp
The atmosphere at the Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport on the University of Toronto campus was electric as players donned the Tempo’s Bordeaux pinnies, clashing against teammates in black shirts. The sound of sneakers on the court, whistles piercing through the air, and the chants of players echoed, signalling the start of a new chapter in Canadian women’s basketball. The Tempo, alongside the Portland Fire, is one of the new franchises introduced to the league, expanding the WNBA’s reach.
In preparation for the season, Toronto has carefully crafted its roster by selecting 11 players in the expansion draft, followed by four additional signings from the 2026 WNBA draft. Among these is Kia Nurse, a celebrated athlete from Hamilton, Ontario, who expressed her enthusiasm for joining Canada’s first WNBA team. “It feels like the right time to be part of this franchise,” Nurse stated after signing on April 14. A two-time WNBA All-Star, she brings a wealth of experience, averaging 8.9 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists throughout her career.
Building Team Culture
During the opening practice, Nurse praised the fresh energy brought by the Tempo’s rookies, particularly highlighting the spirited play of Kiki Rice, who was the team’s first draft pick. At just 22 years old, Rice has already made a name for herself, having recently won a national championship with UCLA. “They weren’t afraid of anything, they asked the right questions, they were tough,” Nurse noted, reflecting on the promising start the team has made. Coach Sandy Brondello echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of establishing a strong team culture from the outset.
“These first few days are about understanding who they are and instilling our principles,” Brondello explained, expressing satisfaction with the initial results. “There’s a lot of excitement about building something special here.”
Embracing Canadian Identity
For both Nurse and Rice, the opportunity to represent an expansion franchise carries unique challenges and rewards. “Everything is new,” Nurse remarked, acknowledging the unfamiliarity of the situation. Yet, it is this very novelty that fuels their collective ambition. Nurse highlighted the significance of being the only Canadian team in the league, noting how it opens doors for young girls across the country to see themselves in these roles. “If you can see it, you can be it,” Brondello added, underscoring the team’s role as trailblazers for future generations.
Rice, who has never been to Toronto before joining the Tempo, is eager to embrace the local culture. “I had a long phone call with my aunt and uncle, who helped me get settled in. It’s been great so far,” she shared, hinting at her plans to try quintessential Canadian snacks like all-dressed and ketchup-flavoured chips, which Nurse has promised to introduce to her.
A Legacy in the Making
As the Tempo gears up for their home opener, Nurse reflects on the legacy she hopes to build alongside her teammates. “I want my name to be mentioned alongside the greats—Tammy Sutton-Brown, Natalie Achonwa, and others who paved the way for us,” she said. “Being part of something so special is a testament to the women who came before me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this legacy.”
With the Tempo poised to make their mark in the WNBA, the excitement surrounding the team is not just about basketball; it’s about representation, empowerment, and the future of women’s sports in Canada.
Why it Matters
The establishment of the Toronto Tempo is more than a new franchise; it represents a critical step forward for women’s sports in Canada. With Kia Nurse at the helm, the team embodies the aspirations of countless young athletes across the nation. As these players strive to compete at the highest level, they also serve as role models, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams. The Tempo is not just building a basketball team; they are cultivating a legacy of empowerment and representation that will resonate far beyond the court.
