Toronto Tempo Bring Home Canadian Star Kia Nurse for Inaugural WNBA Season
The Toronto Tempo have made a definitive statement in their pursuit of a competitive debut, announcing the signing of Canadian guard Kia Nurse. As the franchise prepares for its first-ever WNBA season, the addition of the Hamilton native provides the expansion club with a veteran presence and a deep connection to the local community.
- Homecoming: Kia Nurse, a Hamilton native, becomes the first Canadian to sign with the Toronto Tempo.
- Veteran Experience: Nurse brings a career total of 245 WNBA games to the expansion roster.
- Roster Growth: The signing follows the additions of Kiki Rice (6th overall pick), Brittney Sykes, and Isabelle Harrison.
- Season Opener: Toronto debuts May 8 at Coca-Cola Coliseum against Washington.
A Landmark Signing for Canadian Basketball
The acquisition of Kia Nurse is more than just a tactical move; it’s a symbolic milestone for the sport in Canada. As the WNBA expands to 15 teams—including the addition of the Portland Fire—Toronto marks the league’s first foray into Canadian territory.
Nurse expressed her excitement on social media, stating that playing for Canada’s first WNBA team was one of her “wildest dreams” and that she is eager to help grow the game for the next generation of young women in the country. General Manager Monica Wright Rogers emphasized that Nurse represents everything the franchise stands for, citing her as a world-class athlete who has helped grow the game at every level.
Veteran Pedigree and Performance
At 30 years old, Nurse arrives in Toronto with a wealth of professional experience. She spent the 2025 season with the Chicago Sky, where she appeared in 44 games (including 18 starts) and averaged 7.2 points per game with a 33.5 per cent success rate from three-point range.
Career Highlights and Versatility
Nurse’s professional journey has seen her suit up for several high-profile organizations, including:
- Latest York Liberty
- Phoenix Mercury
- Seattle Storm
- Chicago Sky
Beyond the WNBA, Nurse is a cornerstone of the Canadian women’s national team. She has represented Canada at three Olympic Games (2016, 2020, 2024) and three FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022). Outside of her playing career, she also contributes to the sport as a television analyst on TSN.
Building the Tempo Roster
The signing of Nurse is part of a broader strategy to blend youthful talent with seasoned leadership. The Tempo have been active in building their inaugural squad, drafting Kiki Rice sixth overall and adding veterans Brittney Sykes (a 2025 WNBA all-star) and forward Isabelle Harrison through free agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Toronto Tempo play their first game?
The Toronto Tempo will open their inaugural season on May 8 at the Coca-Cola Coliseum against Washington.
Who is Kia Nurse?
Kia Nurse is a 30-year-old veteran guard from Hamilton, Ontario, with 245 career WNBA games and three Olympic appearances for Team Canada.
How many teams are now in the WNBA?
The WNBA is growing to 15 teams, with the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire being the newest additions.
Looking Ahead
With a roster that now features a mix of international experience and local pride, the Toronto Tempo are positioned to create an immediate impact. The focus now shifts to May 8, as the franchise looks to establish its identity on home soil in front of a Canadian audience.
Worth a look