Quick Read
- Serena Williams becomes a co-owner of Toronto Tempo, WNBA’s first Canadian team.
- The Toronto Tempo will debut in the 2026 season at Coca-Cola Coliseum.
- Williams will contribute to jersey designs and merchandise collaborations.
- This move aligns with her mission to elevate women’s sports globally.
March 3, 2025 marked a landmark moment in sports as Serena Williams, one of the most iconic athletes of all time, joined the ownership group of the Toronto Tempo, the first Canadian franchise in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). This announcement, timed ahead of International Women’s Day, not only celebrates Williams’ legacy but underscores her commitment to elevating women’s sports globally.
Why Serena Williams’ Role Matters in the WNBA Expansion
The Toronto Tempo, unveiled as the WNBA’s 14th franchise in May 2024, represents a historic step for the league. With the team set to debut in the 2026 season, Williams’ involvement amplifies its potential to inspire and unite fans across Canada. As Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures and a key figure in the Tempo’s leadership, expressed, “Serena exemplifies the very best of what the Tempo stand for. Her impact will be felt far beyond the court.”
Williams’ legendary career in tennis includes 23 major women’s singles titles, but her influence extends far beyond her athletic achievements. She has long championed the value of investing in women’s sports, a mission she reiterated in her statement: “This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes.”
Toronto Tempo: A New Era for Canadian Basketball
The Tempo’s entry into the WNBA marks a significant milestone for Canadian sports. The team will play its home games at the Coca-Cola Coliseum, with additional matches hosted in Montreal and Vancouver, further broadening its national reach. Backed by Kilmer Sports Ventures and led by Teresa Resch, a seasoned executive with championship-winning experience from the Toronto Raptors, the Tempo is poised to become a beacon for women’s basketball in Canada.
Williams’ role goes beyond financial investment. She will actively participate in designing jerseys and forging unique merchandise collaborations, bringing her creative vision to the forefront of the team’s brand identity. This hands-on approach reflects her broader commitment to shaping the future of women’s sports.
Serena Williams’ Expanding Sports Ownership Portfolio
Williams is no stranger to sports ownership. In 2009, she and her sister Venus became minority owners of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins. More recently, she co-founded Angel City FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) alongside her husband, entrepreneur Alexis Ohanian. Her portfolio also includes the Los Angeles Golf Club in the TGL Golf League, founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.
Her investment in the Tempo adds another layer to her influence in sports, reinforcing her belief in the untapped potential of women’s leagues. This strategic move aligns with Williams’ vision of creating sustainable growth and opportunities for female athletes worldwide.
What This Means for the WNBA and Women’s Sports
The WNBA’s decision to expand into Canada comes at a time of unprecedented growth for the league. With rising viewership, attendance, and sponsorships, the addition of the Toronto Tempo reflects the growing demand for women’s basketball globally. The Tempo aims to be more than just a Toronto-based team; it seeks to become a national symbol of excellence in women’s sports.
Williams’ association with the Tempo brings immense brand value. As one of the most recognized athletes in the world, her involvement is expected to attract high-end sponsors and media attention, elevating the team’s profile on an international scale. This partnership also aligns with the WNBA’s broader goal of diversifying its ownership and expanding its global footprint.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Athletes
The introduction of the Toronto Tempo is anticipated to inspire a new generation of athletes in Canada. By providing a professional pathway for Canadian players and showcasing top-tier talent, the team is set to ignite interest in women’s basketball at all levels. Notable Canadian athletes like Kia Nurse and Bridget Carleton have already made waves in the WNBA, and the Tempo offers a platform to nurture even more local talent.
Williams’ involvement further amplifies this mission. Her story of perseverance and excellence serves as a powerful example for young athletes, particularly girls aspiring to break barriers in sports and beyond.
Serena Williams’ entry into the Toronto Tempo’s ownership group is more than just a business move; it’s a statement about the future of women’s sports. As the team gears up for its 2026 debut, Williams’ influence will undoubtedly shape its legacy, inspiring fans and athletes alike to envision a brighter, more inclusive future for basketball.