When I initially began contributing to our cherished blog as the Editor-in-Chief of Raptors HQ, I conceived the idea of crafting my own Fantasy Toronto WNBA roster. Essentially, it was a reflection of whom I would select if a WNBA expansion team were to arrive in Toronto at that moment, primarily comprising my favorite players from the league.
As the notion of a WNBA team in Toronto evolved from a distant aspiration to a plausible reality, I revisited the concept in 2023 with the second iteration of the Fantasy Roster. Notably, I included Caitlin Clark on the list before her rise to widespread recognition, underscoring my insight into the sport.
Presently, the prospect of WNBA expansion appears not only viable but imminent. Although MLSE has tempered its pursuit of a team, Larry Tanenbaum’s Kilmer Sports group appears enthusiastic. Rumors suggest that former Toronto Raptors VP Theresa Resch is spearheading the effort, indicating a tangible and legitimate endeavor.
The WNBA marked its first game in Canada almost a year ago, when the Chicago Sky and Minnesota Lynx contested a preseason match at Scotiabank Arena. The event sold out swiftly, garnering widespread acclaim. Now, the WNBA is gearing up for the second WNBA Canada Game on Saturday, May 4th, in Edmonton, Alberta, featuring the Seattle Storm and LA Sparks.
The WNBA’s integration into Canada has exceeded my initial expectations from when I penned that inaugural piece in 2021. Both the US and Canada have witnessed record-breaking viewership in the intervening years, signaling an unprecedented surge in interest. This season promises to be one of the most memorable in the league’s nearly three-decade history.
Given these developments, it feels opportune to revise my Toronto Fantasy Roster.