The Toronto Tempo, Canada’s first Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) team, has officially launched its inaugural merchandise collection, bringing a fresh wave of excitement to Canadian sports and retail. Featuring a wide range of apparel and accessories, the collection is now available online at shop.torontotempo.com and through select retailers in Toronto.
The merchandise launch signals the team’s entry into the sports scene and also highlights its commitment to local collaboration and community engagement. From partnerships with iconic Toronto-based retailers like Roots and Peace Collective to collaborations with female-founded businesses, the Tempo is setting a new standard for sports franchises in Canada.
A Collaborative Celebration of Toronto’s Retail Culture
The merchandise collection embraces the Tempo’s distinct branding, with items featuring the team’s vibrant Hydrogen Blue and Bordeaux colours, along with newly unveiled logos and wordmarks. Highlights include hoodies, hats, jackets, leather goods, candles, and baby clothing. Notably, many items were produced in partnership with Canadian companies, ensuring a local touch that resonates with fans.
Roots, known for its heritage leather goods and athleisure apparel, brings its signature craftsmanship to the collection. Peace Collective, a Toronto-based brand celebrated for its community-focused designs, lends its urban aesthetic to the lineup. Both brands have deep connections to the city’s sports culture and represent a seamless integration of Toronto’s identity into the Tempo’s offerings.
Whitney Bell, Chief Marketing Officer of Toronto Tempo, expressed her excitement for the launch. “‘When can I get my hands on merch?’ is, without a doubt, the most-asked question we’ve had since we announced the launch of this team,” she said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to finally give our community the chance to wear their support for the Tempo proudly.”
Empowering Female Entrepreneurs
In a powerful nod to gender equality and innovation, the Tempo has partnered with several female-founded brands, including Round21, Playa Society, The Give & Grow, and Scents by Fay. These collaborations go beyond traditional merchandise, offering lifestyle accessories and home fragrances that align with the Tempo’s brand values.
The partnerships reflect the team’s dedication to uplifting women in business, a mission that aligns with the broader goals of the WNBA.
Accessible Merchandise for All Fans
The Tempo’s retail strategy ensures widespread availability of its merchandise. Fans can shop online or visit local retailers, including Makeway, Real Sports, and Sport Chek. Makeway, a store focused on women-led brands, aligns with the Tempo’s ethos.
The merchandise, produced by licensees such as Fanatics, Nike, New Era, and Peace Collective, caters to a variety of tastes and price points. Notably, Fanatics, the team’s official omnichannel retail partner, will oversee both e-commerce and in-venue sales, ensuring seamless access for fans across Canada.
Future Plans for Merchandise
While the current collection is diverse, it’s only the beginning. Additional gear and licensing partnerships will roll out throughout 2025. The Tempo’s official team jersey, a highly anticipated item, will debut closer to the team’s inaugural tip-off at Toronto’s Coca-Cola Coliseum in 2026.
“This is just the beginning,” said Bell. “We can’t wait to hear from fans; what are your favourite pieces? What’s missing? What should we make next?”
Bridging Sports and Community
The Tempo’s approach to merchandise transcends retail, creating a meaningful connection between the team and its community. The decision to collaborate with local brands and focus on inclusivity underscores the team’s commitment to empowering women, fostering local pride, and embracing Toronto’s dynamic retail landscape.
For Toronto’s retail sector, the Tempo represents a unique opportunity. By integrating professional sports with local partnerships, the franchise is creating a blueprint for future sports-related retail initiatives in Canada.
Where to Buy
Fans can purchase the collection at shop.torontotempo.com or through local retail partners including Makeway, Sport Chek, and Real Sports.
About Toronto Tempo
The Toronto Tempo was announced as Canada’s first WNBA team in May 2024. Owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, the franchise will play its first season in 2026 at Coca-Cola Coliseum. For more information, including season ticket waitlist registration, visit tempo.wnba.com.
