In a historic moment, the WNBA’s inaugural season in Canada commenced at 7:34 p.m. Eastern Time on a Friday evening in Toronto. Referee Clare Simmons kickstarted the game at the Coca-Cola Coliseum, once an agricultural fair venue established in 1921, now transformed into a beloved hockey arena. The scene was set with the Toronto Tempo facing off against the Washington Mystics in front of a packed crowd of 8,210.
Guard Brittney Sykes etched her name in the history books by scoring the first points for the Tempo with a jump shot. The game unfolded as a thrilling spectacle, culminating in a narrow 68-65 victory for the Mystics. Despite the outcome, the evening was a jubilant affair, marked by special tributes to Canadian women’s basketball pioneers and the enthusiastic support of notable figures like Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The event drew a star-studded audience, including Raptors players, former president Masai Ujuri, and track star Andre De Grasse. With 72 media requests and significant anticipation, the game hinted at the growing interest in women’s sports in Canada. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert reflected on the league’s expansion and the passionate fanbase in Toronto.
The Toronto Tempo’s future looks promising with billionaire owner Larry Tanenbaum’s commitment to building a state-of-the-art training center. Despite the challenges of being an expansion team, the Tempo management, led by General Manager Monica Wright Rogers and head coach Sandy Brondello, is focused on establishing a competitive foundation. The team’s strategic signings, including Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes, underscore their ambition for long-term success.
As the WNBA makes its mark in Toronto, the league’s evolution and increasing popularity bode well for the Tempo’s journey ahead. Coach Brondello expressed confidence in the team’s bright future, highlighting the league’s growth and the widespread support for women’s basketball. The debut game may have been just the beginning, but it symbolizes a promising start for the WNBA in Toronto.