In what may be one of the most entertaining “accidental leaks” in recent sports history, the WNBA seems to have tipped its hand about the name of its upcoming Toronto-based franchise. Either that, or the league has an intern with a talent for unintentionally stirring chaos.
Basketball fans are buzzing after eagle-eyed users spotted a curious addition in the WNBA app’s “Teams” drop-down menu. Sandwiched between the Seattle Storm and Washington Mystics was a peculiar new option: “Toronto Tempo.”
Let’s pause here for a moment. “Tempo”? As in, a rhythmic, smooth beat? Or—more hilariously—did someone at WNBA HQ mean to type “temporary” and hit “enter” a tad too soon? Either way, the premature appearance of the name quickly set basketball Twitter ablaze with speculation and memes.
Canada’s New Basketball Beat
The Toronto Tempo, if that’s indeed the name, would become the first WNBA team based outside the United States. The franchise is owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, led by Larry Tanenbaum, a man already entrenched in Toronto sports lore as part-owner of the NBA’s Raptors. If the Tempo really is the chosen name, one wonders—was “Toronto Moose” too on the nose? “Maple Ballers” too syrupy?
The league officially announced Toronto’s inclusion back in May, along with Portland, Oregon, joining as the 15th WNBA team. Portland fans are still in the dark about their team’s moniker, leaving them temporarily relieved they’re not the only ones hanging onto a mystery.
But let’s not forget, Toronto’s upcoming WNBA adventure isn’t without drama. The NBA’s 29-1 vote approving the expansion wasn’t unanimous. The New York Knicks—the lone dissenters—tried to rain on Canada’s parade, citing an ongoing legal spat with the Raptors over alleged data theft. Clearly, the Knicks are as good at holding grudges as they are at avoiding playoff heartbreaks.
A New Era for the WNBA
The Tempo (or whatever they’ll officially be called) is set to debut in 2026 at the Coca-Cola Coliseum. The venue is a cozy choice compared to NBA arenas but perfect for showcasing the league’s growing momentum. It’s also a strategic win for Canadian fans, who’ve been thirsting for more basketball action since the Raptors brought the Larry O’Brien Trophy home in 2019.
Meanwhile, the WNBA’s expansion comes after a 17-year drought of new teams. Golden State Valkyries are up next in 2025, followed by Toronto and Portland the year after. With all this growth, it’s safe to say the league’s rhythm is anything but “tempo-rary.”
As for the Toronto franchise’s possible name leak, one thing is clear—if the WNBA wanted to drum up excitement, mission accomplished. Whether intentional or a slip-up, fans are now humming along with speculation, proving that even a small “oops” can spark a big tune-up in the world of sports.
So, here’s to the Tempo, or whatever name they ultimately unveil. Let’s hope their debut season keeps the league marching to a lively beat—preferably one that won’t end up in the blooper reel.
