While turmoil between Canada and the US boils Serena Joins a Canadian BBALL team… Who knew?
Serena Williams’ Surprise Move to Toronto’s WNBA Team
Fresh off making headlines for joining Kendrick Lamar in his musical attack on Drake, Serena Williams has now taken an unexpected turn—becoming a co-owner of Toronto’s new WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo.
Williams, one of the greatest athletes of all time, announced her ownership stake on Monday, emphasizing her commitment to women’s sports and investing in female athletes.
“This moment is not just about basketball. It is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes. I have always said that women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity,” Williams said in a statement.
But for many in Toronto, this announcement isn’t being celebrated the way one might expect. After all, just weeks ago, Serena was on stage during Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance, dancing to Not Like Us—a track widely known for its takedown of Drake. And now she’s aligning herself with the basketball scene in the city Drake has long represented? Some fans aren’t buying the coincidence.
Drake, Serena, and the Toronto Basketball Connection
Drake’s presence in Toronto’s basketball culture is undeniable. As the Raptors’ global ambassador, his influence extends beyond courtside appearances. His ties to the city’s sports scene run deep, making Serena’s sudden involvement in Toronto basketball all the more eyebrow-raising.
The tension stems from the Super Bowl moment that had the internet talking. As Kendrick Lamar performed Not Like Us—his diss track aimed at Drake—Serena joined in, doing the Crip Walk on stage. The move was seen as a symbolic dig at her former flame.
And now, just weeks later, she’s stepping into a leadership role in a Toronto-based basketball franchise? It’s a development that has many questioning her motivations.
Toronto Fans React to the Serena Williams Announcement
The reactions to Williams’ involvement in the Toronto Tempo ownership group have been mixed. While some applaud her for taking a major role in women’s basketball, others see it as a questionable move given the timing.
On social media, the responses have ranged from support to skepticism:
- “Serena is a legend, but her timing is suspect. After dancing to ‘Not Like Us’ at the Super Bowl, she suddenly wants to be a Toronto sports figure?”
- “Toronto fans aren’t stupid. We see the shade.”
- “This has nothing to do with Drake. Serena has always been about investing in women’s sports.”
- “Plot twist: Serena is playing 4D chess, and Drake will still be sitting courtside.”
A Business Move or A Statement?
Despite the controversy, Serena Williams’ involvement in the Toronto Tempo is being framed as a business decision. She joins investor Larry Tanenbaum, former Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment chairman, in leading the new WNBA franchise, set to debut in 2026.
Tempo president Teresa Resch welcomed Williams to the team, calling her a “champion and a force for change.”
Tanenbaum also expressed his excitement, stating, “Serena Williams is an icon, a role model, and a force for change in the world. She exemplifies the very best of what the Tempo stand for.”
Still, some can’t shake the feeling that this move isn’t just about basketball.
What’s Next for Toronto Tempo?
The Toronto Tempo will begin playing in 2026 at Coca-Cola Coliseum, with some games expected to be played in Montreal and Vancouver. The team has already hired three-time WNBA champion Monica Wright Rogers as general manager, and an expansion draft is expected this fall.
Now, with Serena Williams involved, Toronto Tempo might have an easier time attracting top WNBA talent. But will Toronto fans fully embrace the move, or will the lingering Drake-Kendrick tension make things awkward?
Regardless, one thing is clear: the city of Toronto is watching.
