The Toronto Tempo aren't just entering the WNBA; they're making a statement. The league's newest expansion franchise has made history by securing its first superstar backcourt, signing guards Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes to multi-year max contracts. This landmark move establishes the first known million-dollar guard pairing in the league, signaling the Tempo's serious intent to compete from day one.

Under the WNBA's new collective bargaining agreement, which allows for annual salaries up to $1.4 million, the Tempo have invested heavily in proven talent. While the exact figures for Mabrey and Sykes aren't confirmed, any "max" deal under the new CBA reaches seven figures, a significant commitment for a first-year team.

This dynamic duo brings a perfect blend of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. Marina Mabrey, whose rights were acquired in the expansion draft, is renowned as one of the league's elite shooters. Despite a down year from three-point range last season with Connecticut, her career 34.7% mark and a stellar 42.4% season in 2024 prove her lethal capability from deep.

Partnering with her is 2025 All-Star Brittney Sykes, a free-agent acquisition who chose Toronto. Sykes is a relentless two-way force, averaging 14.1 points and 1.2 steals per game last season. Her ability to create her own shot and harass opponents on defense makes her an invaluable cornerstone.

Interestingly, their partnership has roots in a storied college rivalry, with Mabrey starring at Notre Dame and Sykes at Syracuse. Now, these former ACC adversaries unite to lead the Tempo's inaugural charge.

For an expansion team, immediate success is a tall order, but securing a veteran, high-scoring backcourt dramatically accelerates the building process. By landing two of free agency's premier guards, the Toronto Tempo have not just built a roster—they've built instant credibility and an exciting new era for WNBA fans.