Who is involved
In a historic moment for women’s basketball, Julie Allemand was selected with the first pick of the Toronto Tempo in the WNBA expansion draft held on April 3, 2026. This marks a significant milestone, as the Toronto Tempo is the first WNBA team in Canada, bringing the excitement of professional women’s basketball to a new audience. Prior to this development, the expectation was that the expansion draft would be a competitive event, but few anticipated the impact it would have on the community and the league.
The decisive moment came when the Tempo made their selection, choosing Allemand as their cornerstone player. This choice not only highlights her talent but also sets the tone for the team’s identity moving forward. The Tempo utilized 11 of the 12 choices available in the expansion draft, showcasing their commitment to building a diverse and competitive roster. With players selected from eight different countries, the Tempo is poised to represent a global community in the league.
The immediate effects of this decision are profound. Julie Allemand, now the first player in Toronto Tempo history, is expected to lead the team both on and off the court. Her selection has energized fans and players alike, creating a buzz around the upcoming season, which is set to begin on May 8, 2026. The excitement is palpable, as the community rallies around their new team and its inaugural season.
Monica Wright Rogers, the team’s head coach, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Today is an important step in building the foundation of the Toronto Tempo.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the community, as fans look forward to supporting a team that embodies their spirit and aspirations. The expansion draft results send a clear message about the team’s vision and the caliber of players they aim to attract.
In contrast to the previous season, where the league saw the Golden State Valkyries join in 2025, the addition of the Toronto Tempo signifies a broader commitment to expanding women’s sports. With 123 players currently seeking new deals in free agency, the landscape of the WNBA is evolving, and the Tempo’s strategic picks reflect their ambition to compete at the highest level.
Moreover, the Tempo’s acquisition of the 26th pick from the Chicago Sky for the upcoming college draft further emphasizes their proactive approach to building a strong team. The anticipation surrounding this draft is heightened by the fact that the Tempo has already established a foundation with their expansion draft selections. As they prepare for the regular season, the community’s support will be crucial in fostering a successful inaugural year.
As the Toronto Tempo embarks on this new journey, the impact of Julie Allemand’s selection extends beyond the court. It represents a unifying force for the community, bringing together fans from diverse backgrounds and fostering a sense of pride in Canadian women’s sports. The excitement surrounding the team is not just about basketball; it’s about creating a legacy that future generations can look up to.
In summary, the selection of Julie Allemand marks a turning point for the Toronto Tempo and the WNBA as a whole. With a commitment to diversity and excellence, the Tempo is ready to make their mark in the league, and the community is eager to support them every step of the way.
