Toronto Tempo’s Inaugural Journey: Preseason Hurdles and the Homecoming of Kia Nurse
The Toronto Tempo’s entry into the WNBA has arrived with a blend of high-stakes excitement and the harsh realities of professional roster management. As the franchise prepares for its first-ever regular season, the team is navigating the growing pains typical of an expansion club, balancing the emotional weight of a historic debut with the clinical necessity of refining its lineup.
- Preseason Debut: The Tempo fell 83-78 to the Connecticut Sun in their first-ever franchise game.
- Roster Cuts: Following the opener, the team waived three guards to streamline the backcourt.
- Veteran Leadership: Canadian star Kia Nurse joins the squad, bringing 245 games of WNBA experience.
- Season Opener: Toronto opens its inaugural season on May 8 at Coca-Cola Coliseum against Washington.
A Bittersweet Debut on Home Soil
The Toronto Tempo officially stepped onto the court for the first time in franchise history, facing the Connecticut Sun in a preseason clash that was as much about atmosphere as it was about basketball. While the Tempo ultimately fell 83-78, the game served as a critical litmus test for the expansion side.
For the fans and players, the score was secondary to the moment. The game provided a first glimpse of the team’s chemistry and the energy of the Toronto market, though the loss highlighted the gaps the coaching staff must close before the regular season begins.
Roster Refinement and Strategic Cuts
Expansion teams often over-recruit during the preseason to evaluate as many options as possible, and the Tempo are no different. Immediately following the loss to the Sun, the organization made the tough decision to waive three guards.
These moves are part of a broader strategy to solidify a rotation that can compete immediately. The current core is being built around a mix of high-ceiling youth—such as sixth-overall pick Kiki Rice—and established veterans like Brittney Sykes and Isabelle Harrison.
The Nurse Effect: A Hometown Hero Returns
Perhaps the most significant addition to the roster is guard Kia Nurse. A Hamilton native and three-time Olympian, Nurse represents more than just a tactical upgrade; she is a cultural cornerstone for Canada’s first WNBA club.
Nurse brings a wealth of experience to the backcourt, having appeared in 245 career WNBA games across stints with Latest York, Phoenix, and Seattle. Most recently, she spent the 2025 season with the Chicago Sky, where she appeared in 44 games (18 starts) and averaged 7.2 points while shooting 33.5% from three-point range.
Beyond the stats, Nurse is playing a pivotal role in integrating her teammates into the city. Having navigated a condensed and stressful free agency period, Nurse has expressed deep excitement about playing on home soil, stating, “I am so excited to finally be able to play on home soil and play for Canada’s first ever WNBA team.”
Building the Foundation
The Tempo’s front office has been aggressive in assembling a competitive squad. Alongside Nurse, the team signed center Temi Fagbenle to a one-year deal, ensuring a veteran presence in the paint to complement the perimeter scoring of Sykes and Rice.
Looking Ahead: The Road to May 8
The preseason is a laboratory for mistakes, and the Tempo are using every minute of it to prepare for the official start of their journey. The focus now shifts entirely to the season opener.
Event: Toronto Tempo vs. Washington
Date: May 8
Location: Coca-Cola Coliseum
As the team finalizes its roster and integrates its veteran stars, the goal is clear: transform the preseason’s lessons into a winning culture for the city of Toronto.