As the Toronto Tempo gears up for its debut season, General Manager Monica Wright Rogers is at the forefront of a transformative moment in women’s basketball. The former WNBA player, who boasts two championship titles, has worked diligently to assemble a competitive roster for Canada’s inaugural expansion franchise. The team is set to make its official tip-off on May 8, 2025, and Wright Rogers is ready to witness the culmination of her hard work and vision.
A Long-Awaited Journey Begins
Wright Rogers has been navigating the challenges of building a new team since her appointment in February 2025, but it wasn’t until recently that she could begin signing players. During the off-season, the entire league was in a holding pattern due to negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement between the WNBA and its players, which restricted her from speaking directly with prospective athletes. However, she utilised this time to scout talent across Europe and engage with agents, promoting her vision of a new WNBA market.
“Firsts are forever,” Wright Rogers stated, emphasising the significance of her team’s inaugural lineup. “These players being firsts would be a forever thing for our organisation, the city, the country.” This sentiment reflects her deep understanding of the historical weight behind the franchise’s formation.
Building a Competitive Roster
The Tempo’s ambition to contend immediately is evident in their strategic approach to player selection. With the WNBA evolving towards a style that demands versatility, Wright Rogers has focused on recruiting guards capable of scoring in multiple ways and post players who can excel both inside and on the perimeter. This flexibility is crucial for adapting to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the league.
Wright Rogers knows the importance of building a strong team culture. She makes it a point to connect with players and coaches after practice, fostering an environment of support and camaraderie. “I love the sounds of balls bouncing, players yelling, and coaches’ whistles,” she remarked. “It’s all part of something that we didn’t have for a long time because we were in build mode.”
A Unique Leadership Perspective
Monica Wright Rogers stands out as one of the few former WNBA players to hold a general manager position. Her journey to this role was not straightforward; she has also served as an assistant coach and held administrative roles within the NBA. This diverse background enriches her leadership style, combining the insights of a former player with the strategic acumen required for team management.
Her strong ties to the community and her commitment to empowering players are evident in her approach. Wright Rogers has worked alongside notable figures, including tennis legend Serena Williams, who is part of the Tempo ownership group. Reflecting on her interview with Williams, she noted, “She was tough. I absolutely respect her because she left no stone unturned in that interview. She is the G.O.A.T. for a reason.”
Embracing the Future
With the new collective bargaining agreement in place, Wright Rogers proudly announced the signing of Marina Mabrey and Brittney “Slim” Sykes, making them the WNBA’s first million-dollar backcourt. “I’m so proud to be one of the first to do it, because these players deserve it,” she stated. This landmark decision highlights her commitment to advocating for players’ rights and recognition in the league.
As the Tempo prepares for its first game at the Coca-Cola Coliseum, Wright Rogers is keenly aware of the responsibilities that come with her role. “Running a whole organisation as a former player just seemed like it needed to happen in our league,” she said, underscoring her mission to create opportunities for others.
As the team approaches its inaugural match, Wright Rogers reflects on her past and the importance of creating a positive experience for her players. “All the things that stuck with me from being a player, I pull on those things often,” she explained.
Why it Matters
The emergence of the Toronto Tempo under Monica Wright Rogers is not merely a new chapter in Canadian sports; it represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of women’s basketball. By prioritising player empowerment, fostering a strong team culture, and advocating for equitable pay, Wright Rogers is not only shaping the future of the Tempo but also inspiring a new generation of female athletes. Her leadership reflects the broader movement towards recognition and respect for women’s sports, setting a powerful precedent in the landscape of professional athletics.
