The WNBA is making its Montreal debut this weekend as the Bell Centre hosts two regular-season games on Saturday and Sunday. The Toronto Tempo, the league's newest expansion team, will be one of the featured teams, bringing professional women's basketball to the city for the first time.
Games and Teams
The matchups include the Toronto Tempo facing off against the New York Liberty on Saturday, July 11, and a second game on Sunday, July 12, against the Chicago Sky. Both games are scheduled to tip off at 7:00 PM EDT. The Bell Centre, primarily home to the Montreal Canadiens of the NHL, has been converted to a basketball configuration for the event.
Impact and Significance
This marks a significant step for the WNBA's expansion into Canada. The Toronto Tempo joined the league in 2026 as the first Canadian franchise, and these games in Montreal are part of a broader effort to grow the sport across the country. According to WNBA officials, the league sees strong potential in the Canadian market, with Montreal being a key target due to its passionate sports fan base.
Ticket sales have been strong, with over 15,000 seats sold for each game as of Thursday, according to Bell Centre representatives. The venue has a capacity of 21,000 for basketball, and organizers expect near-sellout crowds.
Player Reactions
Toronto Tempo guard Kiki Rice expressed excitement about playing in Montreal. "It's amazing to bring WNBA basketball to a new city," Rice said. "The fans here are incredible, and we're ready to put on a great show." Rice is a key player for the Tempo, averaging 14.5 points and 6.2 assists per game this season.
The weekend also includes community events, such as youth basketball clinics and meet-and-greet sessions with players, aimed at inspiring local young athletes.
