Growing up in Chatham, Ontario, Bridget Carleton never envisioned herself playing professional basketball in her home country. However, this season, she is living that dream as a forward for the Portland Fire. Carleton expressed her disbelief at this opportunity, reflecting on how inaccessible the WNBA seemed during her childhood in Canada.
Attending a game of the Detroit Shock with her mother, Carleton’s exposure to the WNBA was limited. Now, at 29 years old, she finds herself playing in a WNBA game in Canada, highlighting the remarkable evolution of the sport in both the United States and Canada.
In a thrilling match in Vancouver, the Toronto Tempo managed to overcome a 13-point deficit to secure an 82-79 victory over the Fire in front of a cheering crowd of 12,414. The win snapped Toronto’s 12-game losing streak and was fueled by the energy of the fans, according to center Isabelle Harrison.
Portland initially took the lead, with Carleton contributing nine points in the first six minutes. However, Toronto fought back, tying the score at 44-44 by halftime. The momentum shifted in the third quarter when Harrison’s layup gave Toronto a 58-53 lead, igniting the crowd’s enthusiasm.
The noise inside Rogers Arena was deafening at times, making communication challenging for Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello. She acknowledged the tremendous support from the fans, emphasizing that the team represents Canada and appreciates the backing they receive.
As part of the Tempo’s Cross Canada series, the team traveled to different cities, aiming to expand their fan base and showcase their players. Brondello, a WNBA veteran, highlighted the growth of the league and the positive impact of bringing a team to Canada.
The Tempo’s stay in Vancouver includes a fan festival and a game against the Las Vegas Aces, demonstrating the league’s expansion and popularity. Guard Brittney Sykes emphasized the significance of having a Canadian team and providing inspiration to young basketball enthusiasts.
Carleton, a two-time Olympian, underscored the importance of young athletes witnessing professional women’s sports in Canada, encouraging them to dream big and pursue their goals. She expressed gratitude for being a role model and contributing to the advancement of women’s sports in the country.