Toronto Tempo gains spotlight with new ESPN series and WNBA season debut

The Toronto Tempo, the first WNBA franchise based in Canada, is drawing increased attention both on the court and off it. ESPN has approved a four‑part original series titled "Setting the Tempo" that will chronicle the franchise’s launch, from talent evaluation to building a lasting culture. Executive producers include actor Ryan Reynolds, Raptors owner Masai Ujiri, tennis champion Serena Williams, comedian Lilly Singh and broadcaster Robin Roberts, highlighting the all‑women leadership behind the team.

The series will give viewers access to strategy meetings, key decisions and the pressures of creating a new professional sports organization, before the Tempo’s inaugural regular‑season game on May 8 against the Washington Mystics at the Coca‑Cola Coliseum in Toronto. Earlier preseason contests were played against the Connecticut Sun and Minnesota Lynx.

In a separate preview ahead of the Tempo’s upcoming matchup with the Connecticut Sun, analysts note the Tempo’s recent three‑game losing streak, a 33.9 % three‑point rate and injuries to Kiki Rice (ankle) and Brittney Sykes (foot). The Sun, struggling with a 2‑14 start, are highlighted for their home‑court performance and player statistics.