Kia Nurse is reportedly signing with the Toronto Tempo, marking a significant milestone as the first Canadian player for the expansion franchise. At 30 years old, Nurse averaged 7.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists last season with the Chicago Sky.
“Kia Nurse is coming home,” a source close to the negotiations stated, highlighting the importance of her return to Canada. Nurse has played 245 games in the WNBA since being drafted 10th overall by the New York Liberty in 2018, holding career averages of 8.9 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists.
Her experience is particularly valuable for an expansion team like the Tempo, which is in the process of building its inaugural roster. Nurse has won two NCAA championships with UConn in 2015 and 2016 and has represented Canada in the Olympics in 2016, 2020, and 2024.
The Toronto Tempo made four selections in their first entry draft, including Kiki Rice at No. 6, who became the first player ever selected by an international team in the WNBA draft. Nurse’s signing is seen as a significant move for the franchise, which aims to establish a competitive team in the league.
Three players with Canada Basketball experience were selected in the 2026 WNBA draft, the most since 2016, indicating a growing presence of Canadian talent in the league. For Toronto, the expected signing is more than a headline about geography or familiarity; it represents a strategic choice to enhance their roster.
Nurse’s career arc gives the Tempo more than a familiar name; it provides a player who understands the complexities of different systems and can lead by example. As the team prepares for its debut season, her addition could be pivotal in shaping the franchise’s identity.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the official terms of Nurse’s contract, but her signing is anticipated to be a game-changer for the Toronto Tempo as they embark on their journey in the WNBA.