Toronto Tempo: Canada’s First WNBA Team Unveils Name and Brand Identity
TORONTO – Canada’s basketball community has a new name to rally behind: Toronto Tempo. The identity of Canada’s first WNBA team was officially revealed on December 5, 2024, marking a major milestone for the franchise set to begin play in 2026.
The team’s name, inspired by the rhythm of basketball, Toronto’s vibrant streets, and Canada’s diverse energy, was selected through a nationwide engagement initiative called “Name Your Team.” The campaign drew over 10,000 contributions, reflecting insights from fans across the country and beyond.
“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,” said Teresa Resch, President of the Toronto Tempo. “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.”
The Tempo name was intentionally crafted to resonate in both English and French, ensuring inclusivity for fans nationwide. Its logo, featuring forward-leaning motion and sharp yet dynamic angles, symbolizes the team’s commitment to progress and energy. Six lines within the logo represent the five players on the court and the fans, considered the team’s “sixth player.”
The Toronto Tempo will play its home games at Toronto’s Coca-Cola Coliseum starting in 2026. Fans eager to support the team can sign up at www.tempo.wnba.com for updates on tickets, contests, and branded merchandise, which will be available soon.
The franchise was awarded to Toronto in May 2024 as the WNBA’s 14th team and the league’s first outside the United States. Owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, led by Chairman Larry Tanenbaum, the team adds to Toronto’s already impressive sports portfolio, which includes the Raptors, Maple Leafs, and Toronto FC.
“The sounds of the court, the beat of the music, and the passion of the fans—Tempo captures all of that energy,” Resch emphasized.
With a focus on community and progress, the Toronto Tempo is poised to deliver an exhilarating in-game experience while championing the spirit of basketball in Canada.
About the Toronto Tempo
The Toronto Tempo was established as part of the WNBA’s international expansion, with the franchise awarded to Toronto in May 2024. Owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, the team is set to make its debut in the 2026 WNBA season, playing home games at the Coca-Cola Coliseum.
For updates and team merchandise, visit www.tempo.wnba.com.
