Toronto has been awarded the WNBA's first franchise outside the United States, with the expansion team set to begin play in 2026. The team is owned by Larry Tanenbaum-led Kilmer Sports Ventures, who paid $50 million for the franchise rights. The team will play home games at the Coca-Cola Coliseum arena in Toronto, with the potential to also play some games at the larger Scotiabank Arena. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert views the Toronto franchise as a chance for international growth and global partnerships. At the same time, Toronto sports owner Larry Tanenbaum expects the WNBA team to thrive like other local franchises.
