The Toronto Tempo has made a groundbreaking move in women's basketball history, announcing Sandy Brondello as the franchise's inaugural head coach. The Australian-born coach brings an impressive championship resume to Canada's first WNBA team, setting the stage for an exciting new era in professional sports.
Championship Pedigree Comes to Toronto
Brondello arrives in Toronto with proven winning credentials, having led the New York Liberty to the WNBA Finals in 2023. Her coaching expertise extends beyond the WNBA, including successful stints with the Australian national women's basketball team, where she guided the squad to a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Building from the Ground Up
The opportunity to shape a franchise from its foundation proved irresistible for the experienced coach. "The chance to build something special from the ground up in a basketball-loving city like Toronto doesn't come around often," Brondello stated during the announcement. "We have an incredible opportunity to create something lasting for women's basketball in Canada."
Toronto's Basketball Renaissance
The arrival of the WNBA in Toronto represents a significant milestone for the city's sports landscape. Toronto has demonstrated its passion for basketball through strong support for the Raptors, and now women's professional basketball gets its moment in the spotlight.
This expansion marks the WNBA's first venture outside the United States, signaling the league's confidence in the Canadian market and the growing global appeal of women's basketball. The Tempo will begin play in 2026, giving the organization ample time to build their roster and establish their identity under Brondello's leadership.
A New Chapter for Canadian Basketball
Brondello's appointment signals Toronto's serious intentions to compete immediately in the WNBA. Her experience in developing talent and building competitive teams will be crucial as the Tempo prepares for their inaugural season. The move also creates new opportunities for Canadian basketball players to showcase their skills on home soil.
With training facilities, front office staff, and player recruitment still to be finalized, Brondello's first task will be establishing the team's culture and identity. Her track record suggests Toronto basketball fans have plenty to look forward to when the Tempo take the court in 2026.
