Serena Williams Joins Toronto Tempo as Co-Owner, Strengthening Women's Basketball in Canada
Tennis icon Serena Williams has officially stepped into the world of basketball as a co-owner of the Toronto Tempo, the first-ever WNBA team based in Canada.
Orka Sports Team 
The franchise is set to make its league debut in the 2026 season, marking a significant milestone for Canadian women's basketball. Williams, who retired from professional tennis in 2022, is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, boasting 23 Grand Slam singles titles and an enduring impact on sports and female empowerment. Now, she is channeling her passion for sports into ownership, aiming to elevate women's basketball and inspire the next generation of athletes.
In a statement following the announcement, Williams expressed her excitement, saying: "I’ve always been passionate about women’s sports and expanding opportunities for female athletes. Toronto Tempo is going to be a game-changer for basketball in Canada, and I’m honored to be part of this journey. I can’t wait to help build something truly special."
A New Era for Canadian Women’s Basketball
The Toronto Tempo was officially awarded a WNBA expansion franchise in early 2025, following years of discussions about growing the league’s presence outside the United States. The team is expected to play its home games in Toronto, with strong backing from investors and sports executives who believe Canada is ready to embrace women's professional basketball at the highest level.
Williams’ involvement in the ownership group adds credibility and global attention to the franchise, given her stature as a trailblazer in women’s sports. She has previously invested in other ventures, including soccer’s Angel City FC, making her no stranger to sports ownership.
With a growing fan base for women’s basketball in Canada—especially after the success of Canadian players in the NCAA and WNBA—the Toronto Tempo aims to be a dominant force in the league, both competitively and in terms of expanding the game’s reach.
Serena Williams: From Tennis Legend to Sports Business Mogul
Since retiring, Williams has been highly active in business and investments, focusing on ventures that empower women and marginalized communities. Her firm, Serena Ventures, has invested in numerous startups and companies championing diversity and inclusion.
Joining the Toronto Tempo as a co-owner further solidifies her commitment to breaking barriers in sports, ensuring that female athletes receive the recognition, support, and resources they deserve.
As the WNBA continues to expand, Williams’ presence in the league could attract bigger sponsorships, greater media coverage, and increased interest from fans globally—a win not just for Toronto, but for women's basketball as a whole.
With the WNBA’s 2026 season still on the horizon, basketball enthusiasts and Serena Williams fans alike will be eagerly watching how Toronto Tempo takes shape and what impact this legendary athlete-turned-owner will have on the future of the team.
