WNBA Expansion Drafts Reveal Contrasting Strategies for Tempo and Fire

Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire take different approaches in building inaugural rosters

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:22pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting fragmented, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors, representing the energy and excitement of the WNBA expansion draft as the new franchises build their inaugural rosters.The WNBA expansion draft sets the stage for the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire to chart their own unique paths to success.Los Angeles Today

The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire made their selections in the WNBA expansion draft, laying the foundation for their inaugural 2026 seasons. The Tempo opted for a veteran-laden roster of experienced role players, while the Fire went with a younger, high-upside group focused on player development.

Why it matters

The contrasting strategies employed by the Tempo and Fire highlight the different philosophies of their head coaches. The Tempo's approach aligns with Sandy Brondello's championship pedigree, while the Fire's roster reflects Alex Sarama's reputation as a respected player development coach.

The details

The Tempo selected a mix of veteran WNBA players and international stars, including Marina Mabrey, Julie Allemand, and Maria Kliundikova. In contrast, the Fire focused on younger, unproven talent, drafting players like Carla Leite, Luisa Geiselsöder, and Haley Jones, who have shown flashes of potential but limited WNBA experience.

  • The WNBA expansion draft took place on August 10, 2025.
  • The Tempo and Fire will make their WNBA debuts in the 2026 season.

The players

Sandy Brondello

The head coach of the Toronto Tempo, known for her championship pedigree and desire to win immediately.

Alex Sarama

The head coach of the Portland Fire, renowned for his player development expertise and focus on building a team for the long-term.

Marina Mabrey

A veteran WNBA player selected by the Toronto Tempo in the expansion draft.

Carla Leite

A young player with limited WNBA experience, drafted by the Portland Fire to help develop their roster.

Haley Jones

A high-potential player drafted by the Portland Fire, who struggled to find a consistent role in her previous WNBA team.

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What they’re saying

“The Tempo's roster features a lot of untapped potential that Alex Sarama and the Fire can look to unlock.”

— Analyst

“The Fire's picks point towards a slower build with several young, high-upside players, while Toronto will welcome a group of older, more experienced players.”

— Analyst

What’s next

The Tempo and Fire will continue to build their rosters and prepare for their inaugural WNBA seasons in 2026.

The takeaway

The contrasting expansion draft strategies of the Tempo and Fire reflect the different philosophies of their head coaches and the distinct paths they are taking to build competitive WNBA franchises.