Since being drafted 10th overall by the New York Liberty in 2018, Nurse has played a total of 245 games in the WNBA. Her career averages stand at 8.9 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists, showcasing her versatility on the court. Nurse’s accolades include two NCAA championships with UConn in 2015 and 2016, as well as three Olympic appearances representing Canada in 2016, 2020, and 2024.

The Toronto Tempo made headlines during their inaugural entry draft, selecting Kiki Rice at No. 6, who became the first player ever picked by an international team in the WNBA draft. Nurse’s signing is seen as a significant move for the Tempo as they build their roster, especially considering that three players with Canada Basketball experience were selected in the 2026 WNBA draft, the most since 2016.

Observers note that Nurse’s experience is invaluable for an expansion team that needs players who understand different systems. “Kia Nurse is coming home,” reflects a sentiment shared by many fans and analysts alike. For Toronto, the expected signing is more than a headline about geography or familiarity; it represents a strategic addition to their team.

Nurse’s career arc gives the Tempo more than a familiar name; it provides a seasoned player who can mentor younger teammates and help establish a competitive culture from the outset. As the Tempo prepares for their debut season, the impact of Nurse’s signing will likely resonate beyond the court, inspiring a new generation of basketball players in Canada.

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The decisive moment came on April 13, 2026, when Kiki Rice was selected sixth overall by the Toronto Tempo. This marked a significant milestone not only for Rice but also for the franchise, as she became their first-ever draft pick. The excitement surrounding her selection was evident, with Rice herself stating, “This is so special,” reflecting the historic nature of the moment.

The immediate effects of this selection are profound. For the Toronto Tempo, Rice’s addition is a cornerstone for building a competitive team in their inaugural season, set to begin on May 8, 2026. The franchise has also bolstered its roster by acquiring veteran guards Marina Mabrey and Julie Allemand through the expansion draft, alongside signing Brittney Sykes in free agency. These moves indicate a strategic approach to complement Rice’s talents and ensure a strong start in the league.

Experts in women’s basketball view Rice’s selection as a pivotal moment for the sport in Canada. Monica Wright Rogers, a key figure in the Tempo’s development, emphasized that the draft was about “continuing to build with intention.” This sentiment resonates with the broader goal of elevating women’s basketball in a country that has been historically underrepresented in the WNBA.

Rice’s accolades further enhance her profile; she was named a 2025-26 All-American and earned two All-Big Ten nods. Additionally, she received the Big Ten All-Defence and tournament MVP honors, underscoring her versatility and impact on the court. As the third consecutive UCLA player selected in the draft, her success adds to the legacy of the program.

As Kiki Rice prepares to transition to the professional level, her focus remains on teamwork and improvement. She stated, “I take a ton of pride in just being the best teammate and figuring out how can I make everyone else better around me.” This mindset will be crucial as she navigates the challenges of the WNBA.

The Toronto Tempo’s inaugural season is set to be a historic one, with Rice at the forefront. The excitement surrounding her selection not only marks a new chapter for the franchise but also symbolizes the growing recognition and support for women’s basketball in Canada. As the league evolves, Rice’s journey will undoubtedly be one to watch.

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Before the expansion draft on April 3, 2026, the landscape of the WNBA was largely dominated by established franchises, with the league’s most recent addition being the Golden State Valkyries in 2025. Expectations were high for the Toronto Tempo, the first WNBA team in Canada, as they prepared to make their mark. Fans and analysts alike speculated on how the new team would build its roster and what impact it would have on the league.

The decisive moment came when Julie Allemand was selected with the first pick of the expansion draft, a choice that not only made her the first player in Toronto Tempo history but also set the tone for the team’s identity. This selection was notable as it came amid a competitive field, with the Portland Fire choosing Bridget Carleton as the first overall pick. The Tempo’s strategy was evident as they utilized 11 of the 12 choices available in the draft, demonstrating a commitment to building a diverse and competitive roster.

The immediate effects of Allemand’s selection were felt across the league. The Tempo’s decision to select players from eight different countries highlighted their ambition to create a multicultural team that could resonate with a broad audience. This approach not only reflects the growing globalization of women’s sports but also positions the Tempo as a unique entity within the WNBA. The team is set to begin its inaugural season on May 8, 2026, and the excitement surrounding Allemand’s arrival is palpable.

Monica Wright Rogers, the team’s head coach, emphasized the significance of the expansion draft, stating, “Today is an important step in building the foundation of the Toronto Tempo.” This sentiment underscores the importance of establishing a strong identity from the outset. The selection of Allemand, alongside a diverse roster, sends a clear message about the team’s vision and aspirations.

As the Tempo prepares for the upcoming season, the implications of this expansion draft extend beyond just the players selected. With 123 players seeking new deals in free agency, the landscape of the league is shifting. The Tempo’s strategic choices could influence how other teams approach their rosters and the overall competitive balance of the WNBA.

Moreover, the Tempo’s acquisition of the 26th pick from the Chicago Sky adds another layer to their strategy, allowing them to further refine their roster ahead of the college draft. The anticipation surrounding the team’s next moves is building, as fans and analysts alike await the unveiling of their complete lineup.

In summary, Julie Allemand’s selection marks a transformative moment for the Toronto Tempo and the WNBA as a whole. The team’s commitment to diversity and competitive excellence sets a promising tone for their inaugural season. As they prepare to take the court, the implications of this expansion draft will be felt throughout the league, reshaping expectations and strategies for years to come.

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The Toronto Tempo, under the majority ownership of Larry Tanenbaum, is poised to make its mark in the WNBA. Ujiri, who previously served as the president of the Toronto Raptors, brings a wealth of experience to the franchise. His leadership was instrumental in leading the Raptors to their historic 2019 NBA Finals championship, a feat that has set a high bar for his new venture.

As the Tempo prepares for its first in-season game on May 8 against the Washington Mystics, the excitement surrounding the team is palpable. The franchise will also host its first preseason game on April 29 against the Connecticut Sun, providing fans with an early glimpse of what to expect. Ujiri’s vision for the team includes not only competitive success but also a strong emphasis on building a championship culture.

Ujiri’s involvement in the Toronto Tempo comes at a time when women’s sports are experiencing unprecedented growth. “Women’s sports are growing in an incredible way,” Ujiri stated, reflecting on the expanding opportunities for female athletes. His commitment extends beyond the court; he is launching a mentorship program called Tempo Rising, aimed at supporting women and non-binary coaches in their professional development.

The ownership group of the Toronto Tempo features a roster of high-profile figures, including tennis icon Serena Williams and NHL executive Geoff Molson. This diverse coalition underscores the increasing recognition of women’s sports as a vital component of the athletic landscape. Larry Tanenbaum remarked on Ujiri’s addition, stating, “Masai’s leadership, his vision, and his deep belief in the power of sport make him an extraordinary addition to our ownership group.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend of collaboration among influential figures to elevate women’s sports.

Ujiri’s transition from the Raptors, where he spent over a decade, was driven by a desire to focus on global basketball development and youth initiatives. His experience as NBA Executive of the Year in 2013 further solidifies his credentials as a leader in the sports community. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Toronto Tempo, Ujiri’s ambition is clear: “I want to win again so I can actually enjoy it,” he expressed, hinting at his competitive spirit and desire for success.

As the Toronto Tempo gears up for its inaugural season, the anticipation among fans and the sports community is growing. The franchise’s establishment is not just a win for Toronto but a significant milestone for women’s sports as a whole. With Ujiri at the helm, the Tempo is set to challenge the status quo and inspire a new generation of athletes.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full scope of Ujiri’s plans for the franchise, but the initial reactions from the sports community are overwhelmingly positive, signaling a promising future for the Toronto Tempo and its commitment to excellence in women’s basketball.

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