The WNBA surprised everyone Thursday morning by introducing the league’s 14th team, which revealed Canada’s first WNBA Team. The league unveiled the team’s name and logo. The name Toronto Tempo has a special meaning to Canada and the city of Toronto. Per the release, Teresa Resch, President of the Toronto Tempo, talked about the team’s identity.
“Tempo is pace. It’s speed. It’s a heartbeat. And it’s what you feel when you step into the streets of this city and in the energy of the people who call Canada home,” said Teresa Resch, President of the Toronto Tempo. “As Canada’s WNBA team, I know the Tempo will set our own pace, move at a championship cadence, and inspire people across this country.”
Toronto Tempo
What is unique about this new team is that the public had a say in the team’s name and logo. More than 10,000 people engaged in providing potential names for the team. Today’s announcement also revealed, “The name was purposefully designed to work in both French and English, creating an inclusive brand for fans across the country.” The logo has specific details as well. The six lines on the logo represent the five players on the court, and the extra line represents the fans. The fans’ input on the team’s name was then presented to a community council to narrow the name selection.
WNBA Expansion
The added 14th team to the league is great for the community, the league and the fans. This expansion brings in 12 more roster spots for the league. It brings excitement to Canada and its fan base. It also provides 12 extra jobs for players who usually don’t have an opportunity to play professional basketball in the States. Every year, elite players from the collegiate level draw their names in the WNBA Draft, and most don’t make it to the Draft.
Even top draft picks do not make the final WNBA roster. It is one of the most challenging leagues for a professional basketball player to make it to. Most players have to go overseas to play and make a living.
