The Tempo's Stumble: Why Missing the Playoffs Might Be Their Best Move Yet
When the Toronto Tempo entered the WNBA, they did so with a splash, opting for a veteran-heavy roster and international talent over the slow-burn approach of drafting young stars. It was a bold strategy, one that mirrored the Valkyries’ success, but as any sports fan knows, bold moves come with risks. Fast forward to now, and the Tempo are mired in a ten-game losing streak, far from their playoff dreams. But here’s the twist: this setback might just be the best thing that could’ve happened to them.
The Foundation That Matters
What many people don’t realize is that the Tempo’s current struggles are less about failure and more about laying the groundwork for future success. Sandy Brondello, their coach, is a proven winner—a detail that I find especially interesting because it’s not just about her resume; it’s about the culture she builds. Players want to play for her, and that’s invaluable in a league where chemistry can make or break a team.
Then there’s the core roster. Brittney Sykes, Marina Mabrey, and Julie Allemand are locked in through 2027, and Kiki Rice and Aneesah Morrow are on rookie deals. Add in a likely high pick in the 2027 draft, and you’ve got a team that’s not just rebuilding—it’s reloading. Personally, I think this is where the Tempo’s strategy shines. They’re not just aiming for quick wins; they’re building a sustainable contender.
The Free Agency Factor
This year’s free agency period was a mess, with rushed decisions and limited time to evaluate talent. If you take a step back and think about it, this works in the Tempo’s favor. Next year, with a more traditional free agency window, they’ll have the time to target players who fit their system perfectly. What this really suggests is that their current struggles are a temporary blip, not a long-term issue.
One thing that immediately stands out is their need for frontcourt depth. Temi Fagbenle’s absence has been glaring, and addressing this in free agency could be the missing piece. In my opinion, if they can land another star to pair with Mabrey and Sykes, they’ll be right back in the playoff conversation.
The Expansion Team Timeline
Here’s where things get fascinating: the Tempo’s current trajectory is almost textbook for an expansion team. The Valkyries’ playoff appearance last year was an anomaly, not the norm. Most expansion teams take time to find their footing, and the best way to build a contender in the WNBA has always been through the draft.
If the Tempo make the playoffs next season or the year after, they’ll be right on schedule. The Atlanta Dream, Miami Sol, Orlando Miracle, and Detroit Shock all did it in their second season. The Washington Mystics, Seattle Storm, and Indiana Fever took three years. What makes this particularly fascinating is that the Tempo are following a well-worn path, not veering off course.
The Broader Perspective
From my perspective, the Tempo’s struggles are less about what’s going wrong and more about what’s being set up for the future. Expansion teams rarely hit the ground running, and the ones that do often flame out quickly. The Tempo, however, are building something sustainable.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how their approach contrasts with teams like the Minnesota Lynx or Chicago Sky, who took longer to find success. The Tempo aren’t just aiming to make the playoffs; they’re aiming to stay there. If they can stay patient, they’ll be a force to reckon with in the coming years.
The Takeaway
If you ask me, the Tempo’s missed playoff dream isn’t a failure—it’s a stepping stone. This raises a deeper question: in sports, is it better to rush for immediate success or build a foundation that lasts? Personally, I think the Tempo have chosen the smarter path. Their current struggles are a small price to pay for what could be a dynasty in the making.
So, while the losses sting now, I’d argue that Tempo fans should be excited. This team isn’t just playing for this season; they’re playing for the next five. And in a league as competitive as the WNBA, that’s a strategy worth cheering for.
