Toronto Tempo: WNBA’s newest team brings energy and excitement to Canada

Toronto Tempo: WNBA’s Newest Team Brings Energy and Excitement to Canada

Get ready, Toronto! The WNBA is officially coming to town, and the city’s newest team has a name that’s as dynamic as the city itself: the Toronto Tempo. Announced on Thursday, the team is set to begin play in 2026, and fans are already buzzing about what this means for basketball in Canada.

The name “Tempo” was revealed alongside the team’s sleek new logo, and it’s clear that the franchise is drawing inspiration from the vibrant energy of Toronto. Team president Teresa Resch explained the significance of the name in a statement that perfectly captures the spirit of the city.

“Tempo is pace. It’s speed. It’s a heartbeat. And it’s what you feel when you step into the streets of this city, and in the energy of the people who call Canada home,” Resch said. “As Canada’s WNBA team, I know the Tempo will set our own pace, move at a championship cadence, and inspire people across this country.”

More than 10,000 people participated in the public outreach to help name the team, and the result is a name that resonates with fans and players alike. The logo, an italicized “T” encased in a circle with six lines extending from the left side, is equally meaningful. According to the team, the six lines represent the five players on the court and the fans who support them. It’s a design that emphasizes unity, energy, and the connection between the team and its supporters.

What “Tempo” Means for Fans

Resch elaborated on the choice of the name, saying, “Tempo reflects what fans can expect from this team — including, of course, the in-game experience at the arena. The sounds of the court. The beat of the music. The passion of the fans around you and the intensity of the players on the floor. Capturing all that energy, excitement, and feeling was crucial as we chose the name for Canada’s WNBA team.”

It’s not just about basketball; it’s about creating an experience. From the moment fans step into the arena, they’ll feel the pulse of the game, the rhythm of the city, and the passion of the players. The Tempo is more than a team; it’s a movement, and it’s one that’s set to electrify Toronto and beyond.

WNBA Expansion: Toronto Joins the League

The Toronto Tempo will be the WNBA’s 14th team, following the addition of the Golden State Valkyries in 2025. The league awarded the expansion franchise to Toronto back in May, marking a significant milestone for women’s basketball in Canada. This move not only expands the league’s footprint but also brings the excitement of the WNBA to a whole new audience.

The Tempo will be owned and operated by Kilmer Sports Ventures, a powerhouse in the sports world. Kilmer’s portfolio already includes the NBA’s Toronto Raptors, the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs, and MLS’ Toronto FC. With such a strong backing, the Tempo are poised to make a big splash in the league from the get-go.

Why Toronto?

So, why was Toronto chosen as the WNBA’s newest home? According to WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, the decision was a no-brainer. Toronto is a city that lives and breathes basketball, and the success of the Raptors has shown just how passionate the fans are. Bringing a WNBA team to Canada’s largest city is a natural next step in growing the game and reaching new audiences.

Engelbert explained the decision in a video announcement, saying, “Toronto is a city with a rich basketball history and a fan base that’s ready to embrace the WNBA. We’re thrilled to bring the league to Canada and to see the impact the Tempo will have on the game.”

What’s Next for the Tempo?

With the name and logo now revealed, the next step for the Tempo is building a team that can compete at the highest level. While the first tip-off is still two years away, fans can expect plenty of updates as the franchise prepares for its debut season. From player signings to coaching hires, the Tempo will be working hard to ensure they hit the ground running in 2026.

Here’s what we know so far:

• The Tempo will begin play in 2026, becoming the WNBA’s 14th team.
• The team is owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, which also owns the Raptors, Maple Leafs, and Toronto FC.
• The name “Tempo” was chosen to reflect the energy, pace, and heartbeat of Toronto.
• The logo features an italicized “T” with six lines representing players and fans.

As the countdown to 2026 begins, one thing is clear: the Toronto Tempo are ready to make their mark on the WNBA. With a name that embodies the spirit of the city and a fan base that’s already fired up, the Tempo are set to bring a whole new level of excitement to women’s basketball. Get ready, Canada – the Tempo is about to take over!