The WNBA's uncertain future, due to ongoing CBA negotiations, affects everyone involved - players, owners, and fans alike. However, two teams, the Tempo and Fire, face a unique challenge as they build their rosters from scratch. With no players signed yet, these teams lack the promotional tools and fan engagement that established teams enjoy. The expansion draft and free agency are their lifelines, but the timing remains unknown.
Despite this uncertainty, the Tempo and Fire have their wish lists ready. For the Tempo, a new franchise in Canada, local talent is a priority. Bridget Carleton and Kia Nurse, Canadian basketball stars, are undoubtedly on their radar.
And here's where it gets intriguing: Kia Nurse, in a recent interview with Yahoo! Sports' Hoops 360, expressed her excitement about the prospect of playing for the Toronto Tempo. "I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to play on home soil, whether I'm with the Tempo or against them," she said. Nurse's emotional connection to playing in Canada is a powerful recruiting tool for the Tempo.
"I was overwhelmed by the emotions I felt when I played in Edmonton," Nurse recalled. "Seeing my Canadian jersey, my original New York jersey, and Phoenix and LA shirts in the stands, it felt like my entire basketball journey was right there. I couldn't hold back the tears."
The Tempo's pitch to Nurse is straightforward: Imagine an entire season with this level of passion and support from a dedicated local fan base.
But can the Tempo land Nurse in free agency? As an unrestricted free agent, Nurse has options. While Chicago may not protect her in the expansion draft, the Tempo could face a dilemma. Unless the new CBA introduces significant changes, they'd need to offer Nurse a core player contract, which might not be their preferred choice.
However, the Tempo can still pursue Nurse at a more reasonable cost during free agency. Her solid performance for the Sky (averaging 7.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists over 44 games) makes her an attractive option. Additionally, the Sky's recent controversies, including a lawsuit against principal owner Michael Alter, might make the Tempo a more appealing destination.
And this is the part most people miss: Nurse's status as a veteran 3-and-D wing makes her a valuable commodity. She could be a key piece for the Tempo, helping them establish themselves as the first Canadian WNBA team.
So, will the Tempo succeed in signing Kia Nurse? And what impact could this have on the league's landscape? These questions and more await as the WNBA's future unfolds. What are your thoughts? Feel free to share your predictions and opinions in the comments!
