WNBA's Toronto expansion seeks fan ideas for team name, colors

WNBA’s Toronto expansion seeks fan ideas for team name, colors

August 8, 2024

in WNBA

Reading Time: 2 mins read

TORONTO (AP) — Toronto’s new WNBA team is seeking input from fans for suggestions on a team name, colors, and identity.

“We don’t want to be just WNBA Toronto,” said team president Teresa Resch in an interview with The Canadian Press. “We want a name, logo, and colors that have meaning and pride for our fans. We are looking forward to finalizing these details soon.”

Inviting fans to help choose a name has become a popular way for new sports teams to connect with their communities. The NHL expansions in Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and Seattle, as well as the WNBA’s Golden State Valkyries, all involved fans in the naming process.

“We want fans to share what this team means to them and what inspires them,” Resch explained. “We are excited to hear from fans across Canada and create a name and brand identity that reflects a collective inspiration.”

A team of designers and advisors will review fan suggestions to create a shortlist of options. The final decision on the team name will be made by team and league officials by the end of the year.

Fans can provide their input by visiting NameYourTeam.ca or by texting WNBA to 1-833-662-3664 until Aug. 28.

Resch emphasized that the team will be transparent throughout the process, sharing updates on their website, social media, and podcasts.

“We want fans to be involved and informed,” she added. “We have an exciting journey ahead that we want to share with everyone.”

Toronto was granted a WNBA franchise in May, making it the league’s first team outside the U.S. The new team, owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, is expected to debut in the 2026 season as the 14th franchise in the league. The expansion Valkyries are scheduled to start playing next year.

The Toronto team will primarily play at the 8,700-seat Coca-Cola Coliseum, home to the AHL Marlies, with the 19,800-seat Scotiabank Arena as a possible alternative. However, Kilmer Chairman Larry Tanenbaum has expressed plans for the team to play home games in other locations across Canada to promote the WNBA and women’s basketball.