Serena Williams has become an owner of the Toronto Tempo, the WNBA’s first Canadian franchise, bringing her star power to the league’s expansion.
The Toronto Tempo is set to debut in the WNBA’s 2026 season, becoming the league’s 14th team and its first outside of the United States. The franchise will play its home games at the Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto, with additional games scheduled in Montreal and Vancouver reflecting a nationwide embrace of women’s professional basketball. This expansion is a major step forward for the WNBA as it aims to increase its global footprint and attract new audiences.
Williams’ decision to invest in the Toronto Tempo aligns with her long-standing commitment to advancing women’s sports. Speaking on her new role, she shared: “I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo. This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes — I have always said that women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity.”
Williams’ involvement extends beyond financial support, as she plans to contribute to the design of the team’s jerseys and engage in merchandise collaborations, leveraging her influence in the fashion industry to help shape the franchise’s identity.
This venture is not Wiliams’ first move into sports ownership. She already holds ownership stakes in the NWSL’s Angel City FC, demonstrating her dedication to elevating women’s sports and increasing investment in women’s league athletes. Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, a co-founder of Reddit, has also been a vocal advocate for women’s sports and an investor in Angel City FC.
Williams’ involvement in the Toronto Tempo has been met with widespread excitement from both the franchise’s leadership and its fan base. Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of the Tempo’s parent company, Kilmer Sports Ventures, expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “Serena Williams is an icon, a role model and a force for change in the world. She exemplifies the very best of what the Tempo stands for — we couldn’t be more honoured to have Serena in our court.” Tempo President Teresa Resch echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Williams’ influence as both an athlete and a business leader, and how her involvement will help build a strong foundation for the franchise.
Fans have also expressed overwhelming support for Williams joining the team’s ownership group, with social media lighting up with positive reactions. One fan posted on X: “The greatest athlete of all time is in Toronto’s corner? What a good day.” Another commented, “It just keeps getting better and better,” reflecting the excitement of seeing an athlete of Williams’ stature invest in Canadian basketball.
Canada holds a special place in Williams’ career. She made her professional tennis debut in Quebec City in 1995 and captured her first Rogers Cup title in Toronto at just 19 years old. Reflecting on her connection to the country, she shared: “Canada has always been a special place for me. I played my first professional tennis game in Quebec City. And I love Toronto — the culture, the food, the people.” Her decision to invest in the Toronto Tempo not only marks a full-circle moment in her career but also strengthens the bond between Canadian sports fans and one of the greatest athletes of all time.
As the Toronto Tempo gears up for its inaugural season in 2026, Williams’ involvement adds a level of prestige and excitement that will undoubtedly bring more attention to the franchise and the WNBA as a whole. Her influence is expected to attract new fans, inspire future athletes and elevate the profile of women’s basketball in Canada.
With Williams’ strategic vision, business acumen and passion for women’s sports, the Toronto Tempo is positioned to become a major force in the WNBA. Serena Williams’ investment represents not just a commitment to basketball but a push to ensure women’s league athletes receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve.