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she’s kept busy.
She’s helped executive produce
King Richard, the biographical movie about her father’s role in her and sister
Venus’ tennis stardom, growing her family, winning an NAACP Award, and crip walking in front of millions after joining
Kendrick Lamar on stage during his Super Bowl LIX halftime show.
But now she’s stepping back into the world of sports, and it’s not tennis; it’s basketball.
As the
WNBA heads north to launch its latest franchise in the
Toronto Tempo, Williams has been announced as a part owner because she’s part of an ownership group led by Larry Tanenbaum’s Kilmer Sports Ventures and
Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, which has a portfolio that also includes the NHL’s Maple Leafs and the
Raptors.
In a statement, Williams says that it’s bigger than basketball and more about what she’s done in professional tennis, with 23 grand slam wins under her belt and the advancement of women’s sports.
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“I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo,” Williams said in a statement. “This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes — I have always said that women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity,” she said. “I am excited to partner with Larry and all of Canada in creating this new WNBA franchise and legacy.”
The four-time Olympic gold medalist isn’t just slapping her name on the newly formed club to gain some recognition; she’ll reportedly design the jerseys and other merchandise for the team’s merchandising efforts.
She’s now the second member of her family to win a sports team, following in the footsteps of her daughter Olympia, who became the youngest owner in professional sports when her dad, Alexis Ohanian, gifted her a stake in Los Angeles’ Angel City Football Club.
The WNBA’s popularity continues to grow, and with the Tempo inaugural season slated for 2026—alongside Portland’s yet-to-be-named team—the newly minted
Golden State Valkyries will be tipping off for the first time this year.
Despite the major business move, social media has found a way to bring up Drake because the team is based in his hometown. See the reactions below.
