What's Happening?
The Toronto Tempo, one of the WNBA's two new expansion teams for the 2026 season, has signed guards Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes to two-year maximum contracts. These deals, each worth at least $1 million annually, could potentially form the first
million-dollar backcourt in the league. Mabrey, 29, joins the Tempo after playing for the Chicago Sky and Connecticut Sun, where she averaged 14.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4 assists in the previous season. Sykes, 32, comes from the Seattle Storm and Washington Mystics, having averaged 14.1 points, 4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game last season. Sykes is also a four-time WNBA All-Defensive Team member and led the league in steals in 2021 and 2022.
Why It's Important?
The signing of Mabrey and Sykes marks a significant investment by the Toronto Tempo in building a competitive team from the outset. This move highlights the growing financial opportunities within the WNBA, as the league expands and attracts top talent with lucrative contracts. The formation of a potentially historic backcourt underscores the increasing competitiveness and financial viability of women's professional basketball. For the players, these contracts represent a significant milestone in their careers, offering both financial security and the opportunity to lead a new team. For the league, it signals a commitment to expanding its reach and enhancing the quality of play.
