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Tennis legend Serena Williams has officially joined the ownership group of the WNBA’s newest expansion team, the Toronto Tempo. The franchise announced the news on Monday, highlighting Williams’ role in shaping the team’s identity and her commitment to advancing opportunities for female athletes.
A Champion’s Vision for Women’s Sports
In a statement, Williams expressed her excitement about the venture, emphasizing the broader significance of her involvement. “I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo,” she said. “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. I am excited to partner with Larry (Tanenbaum) and all of Canada in creating this new WNBA franchise and legacy.”
Williams, who boasts 23 Grand Slam singles titles, will play an active role in the team’s branding and merchandise. According to the franchise, she will contribute to “bringing the Tempo to life visually,” including future jersey designs and unique merchandise collaborations.
A Powerful Partnership
The Toronto Tempo is owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, led by Larry Tanenbaum, who also serves as chairman of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE). MLSE owns several professional sports teams, including the Toronto Raptors and Toronto Maple Leafs. Tanenbaum is also the chairman of the NBA’s board of governors, adding significant influence to the Tempo’s foundation.
Tanenbaum praised Williams as a transformative figure in sports and beyond. “Serena Williams is an icon, a role model, and a force for change in the world,” he said. “She’s earned every bit of her incredible success with hard work, tenacity, and determination in the face of countless challenges. She exemplifies the very best of what the Tempo stand for – we couldn’t be more honored to have Serena in our court.”
Building a Legacy in Toronto
The Toronto Tempo is set to begin play in 2026, marking the WNBA’s first expansion into Canada. Williams’ ownership investment is pending league approval, but her involvement signals a strong commitment to growing women’s basketball and creating new opportunities for female athletes.
Teresa Resch, president of the Toronto Tempo, highlighted Williams’ unparalleled impact on sports and society. “Serena is a champion,” Resch said. “She’s the greatest athlete of all time, and her impact on this team and this country is going to be incredible. She’s set the bar for women in sport, business, and the world – and her commitment to using that success to create opportunities for other women is inspiring. We’re thrilled to be marking the lead-up to International Women’s Day with this announcement.”
A New Era for the WNBA
The addition of the Toronto Tempo comes as the WNBA continues to expand, with plans to add a 16th team in the near future. Williams’ involvement not only brings star power to the franchise but also underscores the growing recognition of women’s sports as a valuable and impactful investment.
As the Toronto Tempo prepares to take the court in 2026, Serena Williams’ leadership and vision will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity and inspiring the next generation of female athletes.
