WNBA Expansions Bold Move: North of the Border
The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has officially announced its first international team—the Toronto Tempo, set to begin play in 2026. This marks a groundbreaking step for the league as it moves beyond U.S. borders and taps into a passionate Canadian basketball market.
Why It’s a Good Move
1. Strong Market and Fan Engagement
Toronto has proven its appetite for women’s basketball, selling out exhibition games with crowds nearing 20,000 fans. The Tempo aims to become “Canada’s team,” connecting with fans not only in Toronto but across the nation, including potential games in Vancouver and Montreal.
2. High-Profile Ownership
The Tempo is backed by Kilmer Sports Ventures, led by Larry Tanenbaum, a veteran sports executive. The ownership group also includes notable figures such as Serena Williams, Lilly Singh, and Sukhinder Singh Cassidy, lending credibility and star power.
3. Momentum in Expansion
The Toronto franchise follows the Golden State Valkyries, who joined the league in 2025, and will debut alongside a Portland expansion team in 2026. With plans to expand to more teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia by 2030, the WNBA is clearly in growth mode.
4. More Opportunities for Players
Expansion means more roster spots, more jobs, and greater exposure for women’s basketball talent around the world.
5. Building National Buzz
Ahead of their debut, the Tempo have already launched a Fan Club with exclusive perks like merchandise and early access to tickets. This early engagement suggests strong long-term support.
Challenges the Tempo May Face
- Cross-Border Logistics: Visa, tax, and travel concerns could complicate operations.
- Market Competition: With teams like the Raptors and Maple Leafs dominating attention, the Tempo must carve its own niche.
- Expansion Risks: Rapid growth raises concerns about talent dilution and the allocation of league resources.
- Labor Issues: A new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) looms, which could affect Tempo’s first season.
Final Take: Good Move With Big Potential
Overall, the Toronto Tempo expansion appears to be a strong move. It expands the WNBA’s global reach, leverages a basketball-hungry Canadian market, and provides momentum for women’s sports growth. While there are hurdles to clear, the benefits of this move far outweigh the risks.
The WNBA isn’t just adding a team—it’s adding an entire country to its fan base.