Toronto Launch Era With Rice and Nurse

The Toronto Tempo continue to shape their inaugural roster with a blend of emerging talent and veteran leadership, highlighted by the drafting of Kiki Rice and the signing of Canadian star Kia Nurse.

Selected sixth overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft, Rice becomes a cornerstone piece for the franchise’s future. The UCLA guard arrives in Toronto fresh off an NCAA championship season, where she averaged 14.9 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.3 assists, showcasing her versatility and poise. As the first draft pick in team history, Rice represents both immediate impact and long-term potential for a club entering uncharted territory as Canada’s first WNBA team.

Team officials were drawn to Rice’s “pro-ready” skillset, including her ability to handle the ball, defend the perimeter, and contribute offensively. Her selection signals a commitment to building a dynamic backcourt capable of competing from day one.

Complementing that youthful energy is the addition of Nurse, a Hamilton native who brings experience, leadership, and national significance. The 30-year-old guard joins the Tempo after a 2025 season with the Chicago Sky, where she averaged 7.2 points per game and shot 33.5 per cent from three-point range. With more than 200 career WNBA games and multiple Olympic appearances for Canada, Nurse provides instant credibility to the expansion squad.

Beyond her on-court contributions, Nurse’s signing carries symbolic weight. She becomes the first Canadian player to join the country’s first WNBA franchise, reinforcing the league’s growing presence north of the border.

Together, Rice and Nurse embody the Tempo’s dual vision: building for the future while anchoring the present. As the team prepares for its debut season, these moves mark a significant step in establishing both competitive identity and national pride.

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