The 2026 WNBA season is officially here, and Friday night marks a historic moment for Canadian basketball. All eyes will be on Toronto as the expansion Tempo take the court for the very first time, hosting the Washington Mystics at Coca-Cola Coliseum. It's a debut that fans have been waiting years for—and the energy is going to be electric.
Leading the charge for Toronto is head coach Sandy Brondello, a proven winner with championship pedigree. The Tempo have built a roster designed to compete from day one, and there's no better way to introduce themselves to the league than in front of a home crowd. Expect a fast-paced, physical style of play that reflects Brondello's winning DNA.
On the other side, the Mystics come into this season looking completely different. After a major offseason overhaul, Washington is now a young, hungry squad. All eyes will be on rookie sensation Lauren Betts, who just led UCLA to a national championship last month. She's already turning heads with her size and skill. Also returning to the floor is Georgia Amoore, who sat out most of her rookie season with injuries and is eager to make up for lost time.
This isn't just another season opener—it's a fresh start for both teams. Who will walk away with the first win of the 2026 campaign?
Here's everything you need to know to catch all the action: The game tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, May 8, from Coca-Cola Coliseum in Toronto. Canadian viewers can watch live on TSN1 and TSN4, the national broadcasters for Tempo games. Streaming options are also available for those on the go. Whether you're cheering from the stands or your living room, this is a night you won't want to miss.
