SportsBasketball

Set The Tempo

Tyler Conium

Set The Tempo with Tyler Conium is a podcast dedicated to the Toronto Tempo and the rise of women’s basketball in Canada. Fresh episodes after every game day, featuring game recaps, player performances, coaching decisions, and league-wide storylines that matter. Smart analysis. Real conversation. A Toronto perspective. This is where the Tempo begins.

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Today · 9 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Rolled by Aces 93-73 as FIBA Absences Hit Hard
The Toronto Tempo are simply trying to survive. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 93-73 loss to the Las Vegas Aces, the second-last game before the WNBA’s two-week FIBA break. The result was not pretty, but the context matters: Toronto was without six regular players due to injuries and FIBA departures, including Marina Mabrey, Brittney Sykes, Aneesah Morrow, Nyara Sabally, Julie Allemand and Maria Conde. That is essentially an entire starting lineup missing against one of the best teams in the WNBA. Still, there were a few positives, including another strong night from Laura Yuskaitė, a solid showing from Kiana Williams on an emergency deal, and a balanced minute distribution as the Tempo try to get through the back-to-back before the break. 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo at Phoenix Mercury🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game and during the FIBA break 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The roster is depleted, the schedule is brutal, but the Tempo keep battling Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
Thursday · 9 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Kiki Rice Scores Career High as Toronto Tempo Fall to Seattle Storm
This might be the best-case scenario for the Toronto Tempo down the stretch. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 90-78 loss to the Seattle Storm, their second straight defeat after snapping a 12-game losing streak in Vancouver. But this loss came with one massive positive: Kiki Rice set a new career high with 24 points, adding 5 assists, 3 rebounds and a steal in one of the most encouraging performances of her rookie season. With Brittney Sykes, Marina Mabrey, Aneesah Morrow, Nyara Sabally and Julie Allemand all unavailable or leaving for FIBA duty, the Tempo are running out a heavily depleted roster. Still, Rice, Izzy Harrison and Laura Yuskaitė gave fans exactly what they should want to see late in the season: development, production and competitive effort — while Toronto’s draft lottery positioning remains strong. 🚨 In this episode: 📉 Tempo Fall to Seattle * Toronto loses 90-78 to the Storm * Tempo have lost two straight after beating Portland * Seattle improves to 8-31 * Toronto continues to sit near the top of the WNBA Draft Lottery picture 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo at Las Vegas Aces🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game and during the FIBA break 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 Kiki Rice looks like the future — and the draft lottery watch is officially on Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
Monday · 8 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Fall to Aces 88-78 as Sykes & Morrow Ruled Out for Season
The winning streak is over — and the injury list somehow got worse. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo’s 88-78 loss to the Las Vegas Aces in Vancouver, a competitive 10-point defeat against the defending champions and one of the greatest players in WNBA history, A’ja Wilson. All things considered, Toronto battled. But the bigger story is the devastating injury update: Brittney Sykes and Aneesah Morrow will miss the remainder of the season, while Marina Mabrey’s return remains uncertain and Julie Allemand left this game with a possible concussion. With seven games left, the Tempo are simply trying to survive the season — while still playing hard under Sandy Brondello and looking ahead to the WNBA Draft Lottery. 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo at Seattle Storm🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The season is brutal, but the Tempo are still playing hard Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
August 22 · 9 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Snap 12-Game Losing Streak vs Portland Fire!
The streak is over. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo’s 82-79 win over the Portland Fire in Vancouver, snapping a painful 12-game losing streak and giving the franchise its first victory in roughly six weeks. Toronto was shorthanded again — and got even more banged up during the game — but still found a way to beat its expansion counterpart behind a massive performance from Izzy Harrison, another strong night from Kiki Rice, and a resilient effort from a roster missing multiple key pieces. But because this is the 2026 Tempo season, there is always a catch: Brittney Sykes left after just 1:31 with a foot injury, while Aneesah Morrow exited after 7:10 with a knee injury. A win, yes. But another stressful night on the injury front. 🚨 In this episode: 🎉 Losing Streak Is Over * Toronto beats Portland 82-79 * Tempo improve to 11-25 * 12-game losing streak finally ends * First win in roughly six weeks * Huge moment for the team and fans in Vancouver 💪 Izzy Harrison Leads the Way * 25 points * 10 rebounds * 9-of-10 from the free throw line * Two massive late free throws to help seal the win * One of her best games of the season 👀 Kiki Rice Keeps Growing * 19 points * 4 assists 🏥 Injuries Strike Again * Brittney Sykes leaves after 1:31 with a foot injury * Aneesah Morrow leaves after 7:10 with a knee injury 🧱 Shorthanded Win Toronto essentially played most of the game without: * Marina Mabrey * Brittney Sykes * Aneesah Morrow * Maria Conde * Nyara Sabally And still found a way to win. 📈 Other Tempo Contributors * Laura Yuskaitė: 15 points, 7 rebounds * Julie Allemand: 5 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 2 blocks 🇨🇦 Bridget Carleton Leads Portland * Carleton scores 18 points * Adds 4 rebounds and 2 assists 📊 How Toronto Won * Down 24-16 after the first quarter * Responded with 28 points in the second 🎰 Draft Lottery Still Matters * Win does not dramatically change Toronto’s lottery position * Tempo still likely locked into the second-best odds ⏳ Next Up: Las Vegas Aces in Vancouver * Tempo stay in Vancouver * A’ja Wilson and the Aces come next 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Las Vegas Aces in Vancouver🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The streak is over — now the injury watch continues Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
August 21 · 11 min
Set The Tempo State of the Franchise: Toronto Tempo Eliminated From Playoffs + 2027 WNBA Draft Outlook
The Toronto Tempo’s inaugural season will not include playoff basketball. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium steps away from the usual postgame format for a full state of the franchise episode after the Tempo were officially eliminated from playoff contention following their loss to the Washington Mystics. Toronto sits at 10-25, the third-worst record in the WNBA, after once hovering around .500 earlier in the season. But this season has never been easy to evaluate because the Tempo have dealt with injuries all year long, never once having a clean injury report. Tyler breaks down what went wrong, what still went right, who is part of the future core, and why the 2027 WNBA Draft Lottery could completely change the direction of this franchise. 🚨 In this episode: 📉 Tempo Eliminated From Playoff Contention * Toronto officially eliminated after the Washington Mystics loss * Tempo fall to 10-25 * First time in Sandy Brondello’s coaching career missing the playoffs * A season that once had playoff hope now shifts to development and draft talk * ⭐ 2027 WNBA Draft Names to Know * JuJu Watkins, USC * Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame * Madison Booker, Texas Tyler breaks down why any of those three could instantly change the future of the Toronto Tempo. 🇨🇦 WNBA in Canada * Tempo have played across Toronto, Montreal and now Vancouver * The franchise continues spreading the WNBA across Canada * Even without playoffs, the first season still matters for building the fanbase 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Portland Fire in Vancouver🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game and major Tempo news 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The playoffs are gone, but the future of the Toronto Tempo is getting fascinating Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
August 19 · 13 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Brittney Sykes Returns as Toronto Tempo Fall Just Short vs Fever
That one was right there. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo’s 101-95 loss to the Indiana Fever at Scotiabank Arena — a game that delivered plenty of moral victories, even if the losing streak continues. The Tempo nearly pulled off the upset against one of the WNBA’s hottest teams, powered by Marina Mabrey’s 22 points, the long-awaited return of Brittney Sykes, and a massive home debut from Aneesah Morrow, who finished with 14 points and 16 rebounds. Toronto still dug itself an early hole with another rough first quarter, but the fight, energy and late-game push were all major positives — especially with Julie Allemand, Maria Conde and Nyara Sabally out of the lineup. 🚨 In this episode: 💔 Tempo Fall Just Short * Toronto loses 101-95 to Indiana * Tempo nearly complete a late comeback * Scotiabank Arena gets a strong, competitive game * Another loss, but one with more positives than negatives 🙌 Brittney Sykes Returns * Sykes plays for the first time since her foot injury * 15 points 🧱 Aneesah Morrow Owns the Glass * 14 points * 16 rebounds * 7 offensive rebound 🔥 Marina Mabrey Keeps Cooking * 22 points * Hit back-to-back threes in the third quarter 👀 Kiki Rice Holds Her Own * 10 points * 6 assists 💪 Frontcourt Steps Up * Temi Fagbenle scores 13 on 5-of-6 shooting * Izzy Harrison adds 8 points and 7 rebounds 📉 One Bad Quarter Again * Indiana starts 13-4 * Fever score 33 points in the first quarter 🌟 Kelsey Mitchell Sets the Tone * 29 points in just 24 minutes * Sets a record with 20 straight games of 20+ points 🏀 Caitlin Clark, Fever & the Big Crowd * Clark finishes with 24 points and 7 assists 🐢🐇 Tempo Mascots Revealed * Toronto finally announces two mascots * Dot: an Arctic hare * Dez: a snapping turtle from Muskoka ⏳ Next Up: Washington Mystics * Quick turnaround on the road 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo at Washington Mystics🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 Sykes is back, Morrow is rebounding, and the Tempo finally gave fans something to cheer about Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
August 13 · 9 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Fall Just Short vs Dallas as Losing Streak Hits 10
That was the one. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo’s 94-88 loss to the Dallas Wings, a game that felt like it could finally break the losing streak — until it slipped away late. Toronto has now lost 10 straight games, but this was one of the more competitive losses of the recent stretch. The Tempo fought back after a rough first quarter, got strong offensive contributions from Marina Mabrey, Laura Yuskaitė and Kia Nurse, and kept Dallas within reach despite being without Julie Allemand and Maria Conde. But the biggest concern came late: Kiki Rice left with a left ankle injury. The good news? It did not appear as serious as her previous ankle injury, and she returned to the bench. 🚨 In this episode: 💔 Tempo Lose 10th Straight * Toronto falls 94-88 in Dallas * Losing streak reaches 10 games * Tempo drop to 10-23 * Game was there for the taking before Dallas closed it out 😬 Kiki Rice Injury Scare * Rice leaves with a left ankle injury * Did not return to the game 🌟 Paige Bueckers Takes Over * Scoreless at halftime * Finishes with 22 points 🔥 Marina Mabrey Keeps Attacking * Found her shooting stroke again * Got to the free throw line seven times 💪 Tempo Bright Spots * Laura Yuskaitė scores 18 and adds 7 rebounds * Izzy Harrison grabs 10 rebounds in the start 📉 One Quarter Hurts Again * Toronto loses the first quarter 27-17 * Tempo won the second and fourth quarters 🚨 Turnovers & Free Throws * Toronto commits 16 turnovers * Dallas commits only 9 🧩 Aneesah Morrow Minutes Watch * Morrow plays 21 minutes * Tyler wonders if she is still dealing with something physically ⏳ Next Up: Indiana Fever at Scotiabank * Toronto gets five days off * Fever come to Scotiabank Arena 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Indiana Fever at Scotiabank Arena🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The streak continues — but Toronto finally has a game to build from Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
August 11 · 7 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Marina Mabrey Drops 36 as Toronto Tempo Lose 9th Straight to Dream
The losing streak hits nine, but this one had more positives than the last few. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 107-95 loss to the Atlanta Dream, as the Tempo fall to 10-22 and Atlanta completes the season-series sweep. Toronto showed real offensive life behind a huge 36-point performance from Marina Mabrey, a strong all-around game from Kiki Rice, and another double-double from Nyara Sabally. But the defense was once again the issue, with Atlanta scoring 107 points and getting 20-plus from Angel Reese, Jordin Canada and Rhyne Howard. With the playoffs essentially gone, Tyler looks at what matters most down the stretch: getting healthy, seeing the future core together, and finally getting Brittney Sykes back on the floor. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Lose 9th Straight * Toronto falls 107-95 to Atlanta * Tempo drop to 10-22 * Atlanta sweeps the season series * Toronto has now lost nine straight games 🔥 Marina Mabrey Bounces Back * 36 points * 12-of-19 from the field * 7-of-13 from three * 5 free throw attempts * Looked healthier after two rough games 👀 Kiki Rice Looks Like Kiki Again * 18 points * 5 rebounds * 6 assists * 7-of-11 shooting * Played 30 minutes * Starting to round back into form after the ankle injury 💪 Nyara Sabally Double-Double * 12 points * 12 rebounds * 3 assists * 4 steals * Showing the version of Sabally Toronto hoped to see consistently 📉 Defense Costs Toronto Again * Atlanta scores 107 points * Sandy Brondello: 95 points should usually be enough to win * Poor energy and poor transition defense * Tempo could not contain Atlanta’s top scorers 🧱 Second Quarter Swing * Toronto trailed by only two after the first * Atlanta wins the second quarter 30-17 * Tempo won the third and fourth quarters, but the second quarter created the gap * Another game decided by one disastrous stretch 🏥 Brittney Sykes Update * Sykes has been out since June 16 * Missed nearly two months with a plantar fascia injury * Has progressed to half-court practice * No official return date yet, but Tyler believes she will be back this season 🧩 Future Core Watch Tyler wants to finally see this group healthy together: * Kiki Rice * Marina Mabrey * Brittney Sykes * Aneesah Morrow * Nyara Sabally That lineup may tell Toronto more than lottery positioning alone. 🧠 Draft Lottery vs Health * Toronto remains near the top of the WNBA lottery picture * JuJu Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo and Madison Booker remain the big draft names * Tyler would rather see the Tempo healthy than chase losses * Even falling out of the top three still leaves lottery upside ⏳ Next Up: Dallas Wings * Toronto faces Dallas tomorrow * A loss would make it 10 straight * Last matchup with Dallas went down to the wire * Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd remain must-watch players 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Dallas Wings🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The streak is ugly, but the future core is finally getting closer Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
August 7 · 10 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Lose 8th Straight vs Portland Fire | Effort Questions Grow
It is getting ugly in the Big Smoke. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo’s 97-83 loss to the Portland Fire, their eighth straight defeat and 12th loss in the last 13 games. Unlike many recent losses, this one cannot simply be blamed on injuries. Brittney Sykes was the only Tempo player listed on the injury report, but Toronto still came out flat, turned the ball over, struggled defensively, missed free throws, and spent much of the night trailing by 20 or more. With just 13 games left in the inaugural season, the conversation is shifting from playoff hope to effort, development, roster evaluation, and what Toronto needs to learn before year two. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Lose 8th Straight * Toronto falls 97-83 to Portland * Tempo drop to 10-21 * Toronto has lost 12 of its last 13 games * Portland wins the expansion-team battle 🚨 Effort Becomes the Story * Tyler says this was one of the first games where the Tempo simply did not look engaged * Julie Allemand called the team “passive” after the game 📉 Turnovers & Shooting Problems Continue * Toronto commits 17 turnovers * Tempo shoot 9-of-31 from three 😕 Marina Mabrey Struggles Again * 9 points * 3-of-9 from the field * 3-of-8 from three 🧠 Julie Allemand Plays Well * 11 points * 12 assists 💪 Aneesah Morrow Brings Rebounding * 11 points * 8 rebounds 🔁 Development Mode Has Arrived * Toronto is no longer realistically playing for the playoffs ⏳ Next Up: Atlanta Dream * Toronto gets three days off 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo at Atlanta Dream🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The season is not over — but the focus has changed Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
August 5 · 8 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Aneesah Morrow Debuts as Toronto Tempo Lose 7th Straight
No cold open needed for this one. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo’s 92-81 loss to the Golden State Valkyries, their seventh straight defeat and second straight loss to Golden State. It was not all bad — Aneesah Morrow made her Toronto Tempo debut, Nyara Sabally led the way with 21 points, and Maria Conde bounced back from deep — but the same issues showed up again: fourth-quarter fatigue, rebounding problems, turnovers, and an offense that still cannot sustain itself for 40 minutes. With Toronto now 10 games under .500 and 14 games left, the conversation shifts from chasing the playoffs to evaluating the roster, developing the young pieces, and figuring out who belongs in the Tempo’s future core. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Lose 7th Straight * Toronto falls 92-81 to Golden State * Seventh straight loss * Tempo have now lost 11 of their last 12 games * Second straight loss to the Valkyries 👀 Aneesah Morrow Debuts * Morrow plays 16 minutes off the bench * Scores 8 points 🔥 Nyara Sabally Leads Toronto * 21 points * 6 rebounds 📈 Maria Conde Bounces Back * 5-of-10 from three * Strong response after a rough shooting game last time out 😕 Marina Mabrey Returns, But Looks Rusty * First game back from neck injury * 12 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds 🧠 Julie Allemand Does the Little Things * 7 points * 8 assists * 4 steals 📉 Same Problems Again * Golden State closes the first half on a 16-4 run * Toronto gets out-rebounded by 13 🌟 Janelle Salaün Keeps Burning Toronto * 21 points off the bench * 61 total points in three games vs the Tempo this season 🔁 Development Over Tanking * Tyler clarifies what “talking tank” means * Not benching everyone or giving up ⏳ Next Up: Portland Fire * Toronto faces the Portland Fire next * Portland beat Toronto 99-80 earlier this season 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Portland Fire🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The wins are gone for now — but the future evaluation starts now Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
August 3 · 9 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Fall to Valkyries 96-79 | Is It Time to Talk Tank?
Is it time to talk tank? In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 96-79 loss to the Golden State Valkyries, another tough result that drops the Tempo to 10-19 on the season. Toronto played without Marina Mabrey and newly acquired Aneesah Morrow, while Brittney Sykes remains out. Despite that, the Tempo were competitive through three quarters and even briefly took the lead before running out of gas again in the fourth. The bigger conversation now: with the playoffs nearly out of reach and Toronto sitting near the top of the WNBA draft lottery odds, what should the rest of the season be about? 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Lose Again * Toronto falls 96-79 to Golden State * Tempo drop to 10-19 * Sixth straight loss * Golden State pulls away with a 29-18 fourth quarter 🏥 Missing Mabrey & Morrow * Marina Mabrey misses the game * Aneesah Morrow does not make her debut yet 👀 Kiki Rice Looks Better * 16 points * 5 rebounds 💪 Nyara Sabally Leads the Way * 19 points * 8 rebounds 📉 Three-Point Shooting Kills Toronto * Tempo shoot 7-of-30 from three * Maria Conde goes 0-of-7 😩 Fourth Quarter Fade Again * Tempo were down just one at halftime * Toronto briefly took the lead in the third 🧱 Rebounding Positive * Toronto outrebounds Golden State 34-26 * Encouraging sign before Aneesah Morrow enters the lineup 🧠 Draft Lottery Talk Begins * Toronto sits third in the Tankathon lottery picture * Connecticut, Chicago/Washington, Toronto and Portland are in the mix 📈 What’s Left to Watch? * Kiki Rice development * Aneesah Morrow’s debut and fit 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo at Golden State Valkyries🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The playoffs may be slipping, but the future is getting very interesting Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 31 · 4 min
Tempo Trade Alert: Toronto Tempo Acquire Aneesah Morrow From Connecticut Sun
Breaking news, Tempo fans. In this emergency episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo making their first in-season trade, acquiring Aneesah Morrow from the Connecticut Sun in exchange for the rights to Maria Klenjakova and a 2028 second-round pick. Toronto needed rebounding. Toronto needed frontcourt help. Toronto needed a young, controllable piece to pair with Kiki Rice, Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes. They may have just found exactly that. Morrow, the former seventh overall pick, immediately becomes one of the most important players on the Tempo roster and gives Toronto the rebounding presence they have been missing all season. 🚨 In this episode: 🚨 Toronto Makes Its First In-Season Trade * Tempo acquire Aneesah Morrow from Connecticut * Toronto sends out Maria Klenjakova’s rights and a 2028 second-round pick * No current roster player moved * Tempo keep their 2027 first-round pick 💪 Aneesah Morrow Fits Toronto’s Biggest Need * Averaging 11.5 points * Averaging 9 rebounds * Adds passing, steals and physicality * Immediately becomes Toronto’s best rebounder 🧱 Rebounding Help Has Arrived * Rebounding has been Toronto’s biggest issue all season * Morrow gives the Tempo a physical frontcourt presence * Helps take pressure off Izzy Harrison, Nyara Sabally and Temi Fagbenle * Allows Maria Conde to move back into a more natural role 🔥 Reunited With Marina Mabrey * Morrow played with Marina Mabrey last season in Connecticut * Existing chemistry could help the transition * Gives Mabrey another reliable frontcourt option * Helps build a more defined offensive core 📈 Young, Controlled Contract * Rookie-scale contract * Affordable cap hit * Club option for 2028 * Restricted free agency in 2029 * Exactly the type of team-controlled player an expansion franchise should target 🧠 Tempo Keep Their 2027 First * Toronto avoids moving a pick in a deep 2027 draft * Deal only costs a 2028 second-rounder * Smart value play instead of forcing a bigger move * Tyler explains why this is a “pennies on the dollar” acquisition 👀 New Core Forming? * Kiki Rice * Marina Mabrey * Brittney Sykes * Aneesah Morrow That is starting to look like a real foundation. 🔁 Is This the First Domino? * Does Morrow become an immediate starter? * What happens with Sabally, Harrison and Fagbenle? * Does Maria Conde move back to the bench? * Could Toronto still pursue another frontcourt move? 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo at Golden State Valkyries🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game and major Tempo news 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo finally added rebounding — and they did it without touching their core Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 31 · 9 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Crushed by Lynx 104-72 | Is the Season Slipping Away?
What do you say when your team has lost nine of ten? In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to one of the toughest losses of the Toronto Tempo season: a 104-72 blowout loss to the Minnesota Lynx at Scotiabank Arena. Toronto started hot, jumping out to a 12-3 lead, but the good vibes disappeared quickly. The Lynx settled in, dominated the middle quarters, forced 24 Tempo turnovers, grabbed 14 offensive rebounds, and handed Toronto another painful defeat as the trade deadline approaches. The Tempo are now eight games under .500, with the season suddenly feeling like it has shifted from playoff push to future-focused decision-making. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Lose by 32 * Toronto falls 104-72 to Minnesota * Tempo have now lost 9 of their last 10 games * Toronto drops eight games under .500 * Rough night in front of a sold-out Scotiabank Arena crowd 📉 Great Start, Ugly Finish * Toronto opens with a 12-3 lead * Tempo lead 19-18 after the first quarter 🚨 Turnovers Decide the Game * Toronto commits 24 turnovers * Minnesota commits only 10 🧱 Rebounding Problems Continue * Minnesota outrebounds Toronto by 12 * Lynx grab 14 offensive rebounds 📊 Rough Nights Across the Board * Laura Yuskaitė leads Toronto with 19 but finishes -27 * Marina Mabrey scores 16 and finishes -28 * Kiki Rice shoots 2-of-9 and finishes -29 🌟 Minnesota Shows Its Depth * Olivia Miles scores 16 * Courtney Williams adds 16 * Napheesa Collier adds 16 🧠 Is It Time to Look Ahead? * Toronto now has the third-worst record in the WNBA * Tyler discusses the Tankathon/draft lottery conversation * JuJu Watkins, Madison Booker, Hannah Hidalgo and other draft names enter the conversation 🔁 Trade Deadline Questions * Reports suggest Toronto may be shopping a future first-round pick * Cameron Brink mentioned as a rumored target 👀 Who Is Part of the Core? * Kiki Rice * Marina Mabrey * Brittney Sykes * Laura Yuskaitė * Izzy Harrison Everyone else? Tyler says he’s open to shopping it. ⏳ Next Up: Golden State Valkyries * Toronto heads out on the road * Back-to-back games in Golden State are next 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo at Golden State Valkyries🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The season may be slipping, but the Tempo conversation keeps going Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 29 · 11 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Kiki Rice Returns as Toronto Tempo Fall to Lynx 100-93
Kiki Rice is back — and the Toronto Tempo finally had something positive to build on, even in a loss. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 100-93 loss to the Minnesota Lynx, the best team in the WNBA. The Tempo dropped to 10-17, but this was not a blowout or a rock-bottom performance. Toronto fought hard despite still being without Brittney Sykes, Izzy Harrison, Nyara Sabally and Tima Pouye, and nearly made it interesting late before Minnesota pulled away. The story? Kiki Rice returned, Marina Mabrey kept getting to the free throw line, Maria Conde posted a double-double, and Olivia Miles reminded everyone why she looks like the Rookie of the Year. 🚨 In this episode: 👀 Kiki Rice Returns * Rice plays 17 minutes in her first game back * Finished with 4 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds * Rust was expected after missing significant time * Huge positive just to see her back on the floor 😬 Tempo Fall to the Lynx * Toronto loses 100-93 * Tempo drop to 10-17 * Minnesota improves to 23-6 * Toronto kept it competitive against the WNBA’s best team 🌟 Olivia Miles Puts on a Show * 24 points * 8 assists 🔥 Marina Mabrey Leads Toronto * 25 points * 8-of-8 from the free throw line 💪 Maria Conde Double-Double * 20 points * 10 rebounds 📈 Strong Starter Production * Laura Yuskaitė adds 18 points * Julie Allemand chips in 10 points and 7 assists 🏥 Injuries Still Tell the Story * Brittney Sykes remains out * Izzy Harrison out * Nyara Sabally out with rib issue 📉 One Bad Quarter Cost Them * Toronto led 28-25 after the first * Lynx won the second quarter 28-15 👀 Trade Deadline Talk * Report says Toronto may be shopping a future first-round pick * Tempo could look for a core piece beside Rice and Mabrey ⏳ Next Up: Lynx Rematch at Scotiabank * Toronto gets Minnesota again * Expected sellout crowd in Toronto * Same key question: can the Tempo slow Olivia Miles and Napheesa Collier? 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Minnesota Lynx at Scotiabank Arena🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 Kiki is back — now the Tempo need to get healthy Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 21 · 10 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Crushed by Las Vegas Aces 109-83 | All-Star Break Reality Check
The first half ends on a sour note. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 109-83 loss to the Las Vegas Aces, a 26-point defeat that sends the Tempo into the WNBA All-Star break at 10-16. Toronto closed its massive nine-game homestand at just 2-7, with games spread across Coca-Cola Coliseum, Scotiabank Arena and the Bell Centre in Montreal. Injuries remain a major part of the story, but against the defending champions, all of Toronto’s first-half issues showed up again: defense, depth, frontcourt health, Kia Nurse’s struggles and the absence of key players. The bright spot? Izzy Harrison delivered a huge performance with 26 points and 11 rebounds against one of the toughest frontcourts in the league. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Get Blown Out by Vegas * Toronto loses 109-83 * Aces score 100+ again * Tempo lose all four quarters * Toronto heads into the All-Star break on a rough note 📉 2-7 Homestand * Nine-game homestand ends in disappointment * Games played across Toronto and Montreal * Tempo lose seven of their last eight * A missed chance to build momentum before the break 🏀 A’ja Wilson Dominates * 26 points * 6 rebounds * 4 assists * 4 blocks * Team-high +24 * Toronto had no real answer inside 💪 Izzy Harrison Shines * 26 points * 11 rebounds * 8-of-11 shooting * 9-of-10 from the free throw line * One of Toronto’s best individual performances of the homestand 🏥 Injury Issues Still Define Toronto * Nyara Sabally misses the game with a rib injury * Kiki Rice still out * Brittney Sykes still out * Tempo hope the All-Star break helps reset the roster 🚨 Sandy Brondello Suspension * Brondello missed the game due to suspension * Tyler gives his reaction to the situation * Tempo players and Becky Hammon defended Brondello publicly * Another strange layer to an already difficult game 📊 First-Half Reality Check * Toronto is 10-16 * Expansion-team context still matters * Early playoff hopes have faded during the injury stretch * Second half needs to be about health, development and decisions 👀 Second-Half Questions * What does Kiki Rice look like when she returns? * Can Brittney Sykes get healthy? * Is Izzy Harrison part of the long-term core? * Should Toronto explore trades or draft-pick moves? * What happens with Kia Nurse, Julie Allemand and Temi Fagbenle? ⭐ Marina Mabrey Heads to All-Star Weekend * Mabrey becomes Toronto’s first-ever All-Star * She’ll suit up for Team Coop * Huge moment for the franchise despite the rough stretch * Tempo fans still have something to celebrate during the break 📅 Next Game: WNBA All-Star Game / Toronto Tempo return after the break vs Minnesota Lynx🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 Tough first half, but the Toronto Tempo community keeps growing Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 18 · 10 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Lose 111-92 to Atlanta Dream | Toughness Needed Before All-Star Break
Another tough night against Atlanta. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo’s 111-92 loss to the Atlanta Dream, dropping Toronto to 0-3 against Atlanta this season and marking their sixth loss in the last seven games. The Tempo were right there at halftime, trailing by just one, but Atlanta took over in the second half with a 29-19 third quarter and a 34-26 fourth quarter. The injuries remain a major part of the story — Kiki Rice and Brittney Sykes remain out until at least after the All-Star break, while Niara Sabally left again after taking contact to the ribs. But beyond the injuries, Toronto simply needed more toughness, cleaner possessions and a better response to Atlanta’s physicality. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Lose Another One * Toronto falls 111-92 to Atlanta * Tempo are now 0-3 against the Dream this season * Toronto has lost six of its last seven games * Atlanta remains the top team in the Eastern Conference 📉 Second Half Collapse * Toronto trailed only 48-47 at halftime * Atlanta won the third quarter by 10 🏥 Injury Problems Continue * Niara Sabally leaves with a rib issue * Sabally has played 18 of 25 games but continues battling injuries * Kiki Rice and Brittney Sykes remain out until after the All-Star break * Temi Fagbenle returns from concussion protocol 🔥 Marina Mabrey Responds * 26 points * 7-of-12 from the field 💪 Atlanta’s Stars Take Over * Naz Hillmon leads Atlanta with 24 points * Angel Reese adds 23 points and 12 rebounds 🧱 Tempo Need More Toughness * Atlanta grabbed 11 offensive rebounds * Dream finished with 28 assists * Atlanta forced 20 Toronto turnovers 📊 Kia Nurse Shows Signs * Better defensive effort * 6 points, 1 assist and 1 steal 🧠 Same Story, Different Night * Injuries remain the biggest issue * Toronto is playing the toughest part of the schedule * The team badly needs the All-Star break * Getting Rice and Sykes back could still change the second half of the season ⏳ Next Up: Las Vegas Aces * First-ever matchup with Vegas in Tempo franchise history * A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray and Jewell Loyd loom 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Las Vegas Aces🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo are hurting, but there is still a second-half story to tell Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 15 · 11 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Hit Rock Bottom in 79-62 Loss to Mystics
From a season high in Montreal to a season low against Washington. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s ugly 79-62 loss to the Washington Mystics, the lowest-scoring game in Tempo franchise history. After the emotional win over the New York Liberty, Toronto came out flat against a Mystics team that has now beaten them three times this season. The Tempo shot just 35% from the field, went 7-of-26 from three, attempted only 10 free throws, and were crushed on the glass 56-36. Washington’s size, physicality and rim protection once again overwhelmed Toronto — led by huge games from Kiki Iriafen and Shakira Austin. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Worst Offensive Game of the Season * Toronto loses 79-62 * Lowest scoring output in Tempo franchise history * Tempo fall to four games under .500 * Washington improves to 3-0 against Toronto 🧱 Mystics Dominate the Glass * Washington out-rebounds Toronto 56-36 * Mystics grab 18 offensive rebounds 💪 Kiki Iriafen & Shakira Austin Take Over * Kiki Iriafen: 25 points, 14 rebounds * Shakira Austin: 17 points, 10 rebounds * Combined for 42 points and 24 rebounds 📉 Marina Mabrey Gets Smothered * 3-of-13 from the field * 0 free throw attempts 🏀 No Transition Game * Toronto finished with zero transition points 🏥 Waiting on Sykes & Rice * Brittney Sykes remains out * Kiki Rice remains out 🧠 No, This Team Should Not Tank * Why tanking in year one sends the wrong message * Why Sandy Brondello, Mabrey, Sykes and Rice are not built for that ⏳ Next Up: Atlanta Dream * Another tough matchup coming * Angel Reese and Atlanta have already beaten Toronto twice 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Atlanta Dream🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 A rough night — but the season is not over Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 13 · 10 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Stun New York Liberty 93-91 | Sabally Wins It in Montreal!
Dubs in Montreal. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s massive 93-91 win over the New York Liberty, snapping a four-game losing streak and giving Montreal fans a thriller. The Tempo led by as many as 20 points in the third quarter, nearly gave it all away late, but survived behind a clutch bucket from Nyara Sabally and a huge bounce-back performance from Marina Mabrey. Toronto was still without Brittney Sykes, Kiki Rice and Temi Fagbenle, but Sandy Brondello rode the starters, Mabrey got to the free throw line, Laura Yuskaitė stayed hot, and the Tempo found a way against one of the WNBA’s best teams. 🚨 In this episode: 🇨🇦 Dubs in Montreal * Toronto beats New York 93-91 * Tempo snap a four-game losing streak * Huge win in front of a record-setting Montreal crowd * Toronto improves to 10-13 🏀 Nyara Sabally Wins It * Sabally comes off the bench and plays 26 minutes * Hits the late bucket to give Toronto the win 🔥 Marina Mabrey Bounces Back * 30 points * 9-of-19 from the field * 9-of-11 from the free throw line 📈 Laura Yuskaitė Keeps Rolling * 18 points * 7-of-8 shooting * 4 rebounds and 3 assists * Back-to-back strong games after a career-high 25 💪 Starters Carry the Load * Mabrey plays 35 minutes * Julie Allemand plays 34 😳 Shoe Ejection Swing * Betnijah Laney-Hamilton ejected after throwing Jonquel Jones’ shoe 😬 Fourth Quarter Almost Got Away * Toronto led by 20 in the third * Liberty stormed back late ⭐ Liberty Stars Still Showed Up * Sabrina Ionescu scores 28 * Breanna Stewart adds 22 and 8 ⏳ Next Up: Washington Mystics * Tempo have lost to Washington twice already * Sonia Citron, Shakira Austin, Kiki Iriafen and Lauren Betts loom 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Washington Mystics🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The losing streak is over — and Montreal got a classic Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 9 · 12 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Fall to Valkyries 83-75 | Injuries Keep Mounting
The losses are piling up — and so are the injuries. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 83-75 loss to the Golden State Valkyries, as the hottest team in the WNBA extended its winning streak to six games. Toronto led after the first quarter and even carried a lead into the fourth, but once again ran out of gas late. The bigger concern? Nyara Sabally left after just seven minutes with a knee injury, joining Brittney Sykes, Kiki Rice and Temi Fagbenle on Toronto’s growing injury list. The Tempo are now 9-12, and while the effort is still there, the margin for error is getting smaller by the game. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Drop Another One * Toronto loses 83-75 to Golden State * Tempo fall to 9-12 * Valkyries win their sixth straight game * Toronto led entering the fourth but could not close 🏥 Nyara Sabally Injury Concern * Sabally exits after just seven minutes 💪 Izzy Harrison Steps Up * 24 points * 8 rebounds * 10-of-17 shooting ⭐ Marina Mabrey Gets All-Star Recognition * Mabrey becomes Toronto’s first-ever All-Star 🔥 Golden State’s Bench Wins It * Janelle Salaun scores 26 off the bench * Kaitlyn Chen adds 16 * Kayla Thornton nearly posts a double-double 📉 Fourth Quarter Problems Continue * Toronto led after three quarters * Golden State wins the fourth 26-16 😕 Kia Nurse Conversation Continues * 8 points in 15 minutes * Still finished -11 🧠 Winning Culture vs Tanking * Why Tyler is not interested in tanking * Why building a competitive culture still matters ⏳ Next Up: Dallas Wings in Montreal * Tempo head to Montreal for a huge matchup 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Dallas Wings in Montreal🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo are injured, exhausted, but still fighting Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com
July 5 · 12 min
Set The Tempo Postgame: Toronto Tempo Fall to Dallas Wings 89-76 | Paige Bueckers Shines
The injury-depleted Toronto Tempo ran into Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings — and it showed. In this episode of Set The Tempo, Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 89-76 loss to the Dallas Wings, the first episode recorded from the East Coast of Canada. Toronto was already without Brittney Sykes and Kiki Rice, then had late scratches with Julie Allemand and Temi Fagbenle also missing the game. That left the Tempo extremely thin against a talented Dallas team led by Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd and Jessica Shepard. The result? A tough 13-point loss, but one that also needs context. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Fall to Dallas * Toronto loses 89-76 * Tempo struggle early and fall behind after the first quarter * Another loss during the toughest stretch of the schedule 🌟 Paige Bueckers Puts on a Show * Showed why she is already one of the WNBA’s most exciting stars 🏥 Injuries Keep Defining the Season * Brittney Sykes still out * Kiki Rice still out * Julie Allemand scratched late * Temi Fagbenle also out 📉 Conde & Pouye Struggle in Expanded Roles * Maria Conde and Tima Pouye step into the starting lineup * Combined 2-of-16 from the field 🔥 Marina Mabrey Still Leads the Way * Team-high 19 points * Tried to attack more inside and not just settle from three * Dallas was able to key in on her without Sykes, Rice and Allemand 💪 Nyara Sabally Fills the Box Score * 14 points 🏀 Dallas Controls the Boards * Jessica Shepard posts 14 points and 15 rebounds 🧱 Kia Nurse Discussion Continues * 12 points off the bench * Still extremely shot-happy ⏳ Next Up: Golden State Valkyries * Toronto faces last year’s expansion team next * Golden State brings one of the best defenses in the WNBA 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Golden State Valkyries🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo need to weather the storm and get healthy Let’s Set The Tempo. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thesqueezes.substack.com

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