The Toronto Tempo, the newest expansion team of the WNBA, has officially announced the hiring of Monica Wright Rogers as its first general manager. This appointment marks a significant milestone for the franchise, which is set to begin play in the 2026 season. The news broke on January 30, 2025, bringing excitement as the Tempo prepares to enter the league as its 14th franchise.
Wright Rogers, who previously served as the assistant general manager for the Phoenix Mercury, enters her new role with impressive credentials. During her seven-season career as a player, she was known for her contributions with the Minnesota Lynx and Seattle Storm, averaging 7.3 points and 2.2 rebounds per game. She celebrated two WNBA championships during her time with the Lynx, being part of teams renowned for their dominance.
"Tempo is pace. It's speed. It's a heartbeat. It's what you feel when you step onto the streets of this city," said Teresa Resch, the Tempo’s team president, who emphasized the core values the team embodies and its connection to Toronto. The name 'Tempo' reflects not just the speed of the game but also the energy found within the city itself.
Monica Wright Rogers was selected as the general manager due to her extensive experience both on and off the court. After being drafted as the No. 2 overall pick by the Lynx in 2010, she quickly made her mark by averaging 11.1 points as a rookie, highlighting her potential early on. Her talents contributed to Minnesota’s championship victories, particularly during the 2011 and 2013 seasons. Wright Rogers continues to be recognized for her skills and leadership, proving she’s well-equipped to lead the Tempo.
Following her playing career plagued by knee injuries which ended her WNBA stint in 2016, Wright Rogers transitioned to coaching and management roles. Her position as women's basketball director of student-athlete development at Incarnate Word and subsequent assistant coaching roles at Liberty and the University of Virginia have equipped her with valuable insights and skills necessary for her new position.
Wright Rogers acknowledges the gravity of her new role: "I’m honored to serve as the first GM of the Toronto Tempo and am excited to build something special here," she stated, underscoring her ambition for the franchise. Under her guidance, the Tempo will need to make strategic decisions, including the hiring of their first head coach and scouting staff.
Resch aims for Wright Rogers to have substantial input on the team's inaugural rookie draft and expansion draft approaching as they scout for talented players capable of competing at the highest level. This process includes laying the groundwork for their basketball operations and establishing the franchise’s identity.
The community has enthusiastically welcomed the Tempo's establishment, and Wright Rogers’s historic appointment adds to the anticipation. Being the first general manager, she’s expected to shape the team's culture and approach, aligning with the aspirations of Toronto basketball fans.
Wright Rogers's experience and winning mentality, including her prior stint as part of the WNBA Players Association executive board, highlight her commitment to fostering success. This experience could prove invaluable as the franchise navigates the early stages of development, allowing the Tempo to carve out its place within the WNBA.
The Tempo, aiming to set their pace as Canada's WNBA team, will bring excitement not just to fans but to the broader women's sports community. The vision and leadership of Monica Wright Rogers will play a pivotal role as they plan their strategy leading up to their debut.
With anticipated challenges as they build their roster and operations, the potential for the Toronto Tempo remains high. The fans' support and enthusiasm will be pivotal, and with Wright Rogers at the helm, the team is poised to create waves not only within the league but throughout Canadian sports culture.
Above all, as the WNBA expands its footprint, the hiring of Wright Rogers should signal exciting times ahead for both her and the Tempo, with everyone's eyes set on 2026 when they finally step onto the court.