How Did Toronto Tempo Fare In Their First Ever WNBA Game?

Playing in the WNBA for the first time is always a special feeling for new franchises. Coming as an expansion team this year, Toronto Tempo has a lot of expectations from their fans pinned on their shoulders. Set to debut on May 8, the team’s hype is rising significantly. However, before the regular season kicked off, the fans got a little preview in the preseason. 

Trying to make a lasting impression on debut, the Tempo front office left no stone unturned. After hiring Sandy Brondello as their head coach, quality assistant coaches like Brian Lankton and Ciara Carl were also roped in. Unfortunately, despite things looking rosy, Toronto’s initial outing in the league did not turn out to be a success.

Toronto Tempo Falls Short Of Connecticut Sun In WNBA Preseason Game

Toronto Tempo just played their first game of the WNBA in their franchise history this Wednesday. As the team came out at the Coca-Cola Coliseum, they were greeted with a loud cheer. As the game rolled on, things initially looked to be under Tempo’s control. With Kia Nurse landing Tempo’s first basket, the expansion team showed a lot of grit. 

At one point, Connecticut threatened to run away with the game, building up a sizable lead. But Toronto, led by its star guard Lexi Held, drew level with the score reading 20-20 late in the first quarter. With the surge continuing, Tempo enjoyed a 10-point lead in the third quarter. Unfortunately, as the Sun nailed their way back in, WNBA’s expansion team lost their way and ended up losing the game 78-83. 

Preseason starting five just dropped✋ pic.twitter.com/jErXMqc8Sf

— Toronto Tempo (@TempoBasketball) April 29, 2026

Surely, such an outcome would slightly dent the team’s morale. After all, everybody wants to kick off their campaign with a win. However, with Sandy Brondello choosing Toronto over all other offers, Tempo fans must not feel disappointed just yet. More so, because they have a lot of positives to take away. 

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Toronto Tempo Shines Without Their Star Acquisitions

The loss would sting the roster, but on the flip side, there are some very important factors to consider. None of the star players suited up for the team in the preseason game. For example, Julie Allemand, Marina Mabrey, and Brittany Sykes were missing. Moreover, Nyara Sabally suffered a head injury in the second quarter and did not return. 

Thankfully, all the above names will be available when Tempo plays its home debut on May 8. Additionally, Kiki Rice, too, looked in form as she had her first basket, which was a three-pointer in the second quarter. 

Thus, with significant positives to look at, fans will now eagerly wait to see how things pan out next.