“This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes,” Williams said.
All-time tennis great Serena Williams purchased a share of the Toronto Tempo, the new WNBA team that’s set to take the floor next summer, she and the club announced Monday.
Williams, 43, is set to join an ownership group led by Larry Tanenbaum, chairman of both Kilmer Sports Ventures and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, which has a portfolio that includes the NHL’s Maple Leafs and the NBA’s Raptors.
New court, new game 🏀
We’re thrilled to announce that @SerenaWilliams – legendary tennis
pro – has joined the team as the newest owner of the Toronto Tempo. pic.twitter.com/kRPYNvdoya— Toronto Tempo (@TempoBasketball) March 3, 2025
“I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo,” Williams said in a statement. “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. I am excited to partner with Larry and all of Canada in creating this new WNBA franchise and legacy.”
The Tempo will take the WNBA floor in summer 2026, entering the league with a yet-to-be-named Portland club.
The San Francisco-based Golden State Valkyries start play with their first regular-season game on May 16 against the Los Angeles Sparks.
Williams won 73 WTA singles crowns in her storied tennis career, including 23 majors. She’s also a four-time Olympic gold medalist.
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“Serena is a champion,” Tempo president Teresa Resch said. “She’s the greatest athlete of all time, and her impact on this team and this country is going to be incredible.”
Williams will “contribute to bringing the Tempo to life visually” by playing “an active role in future jersey designs and will help forge unique merchandise collaborations with the team,” according to Monday’s announcement.
“Serena Williams is an icon, a role model and a force for change in the world,” Tanenbaum said. “She’s earned every bit of her incredible success with hard work, tenacity and determination in the face of countless challenges. She exemplifies the very best of what the Tempo stand for — we couldn’t be more honored to have Serena in our court.”
Williams’ investment is still subject to league approval.
Williams’ presumed new involvement would put her in the same Toronto basketball circles of Drake, the Canadian rapper and courtside fixture at Raptors home games.
Williams reportedly once dated Drake, and she made a surprise appearance at last month’s Super Bowl, taking the stage with halftime performer and Drake rival Kendrick Lamar.
Williams is married to tech entrepreneur Alexis Ohanian, and they have two daughters.
