Tempo Rising provides 1:1 mentorship, hands-on opportunities for career growth, and access to our elite coaching community.
Tempo Rising mentees will receive a $1,000 CAD grant to make an impact in their respective basketball communities.
Each coaching mentee will receive two 30-minute mentorship sessions with Monica Wright Rogers, Sandy Brondello or Masai Ujiri. These sessions offer rare access to leadership who have shaped the culture of the game at the highest level.
Each month, mentee cohorts will join in guided discussions for shared learning and community-building, led by a Tempo representative. These 90-minute discussions create a reliable rhythm of growth and reflection across the entire cohort.
Hands-on opportunities with Tempo and/or local affiliated teams at clinics, open practices, and local community events will offer real-world coaching experience throughout the program.
Our program wraps with a community impact project. This project is designed for mentees to reflect on their experience, showcase the skills they’ve developed, and plan for their coaching futures.
Tempo General Manager and WNBA Champion, Monica Wright Rogers, will share insights as both GM and player, helping to elevate your player mentality and your competitive edge.
Two-time WNBA Champion and WNBA Coach of the Year, Tempo Head Coach, Sandy Brondello, will empower you with the tools to build a winning culture and locker room trust.
NBA Champion, Tempo Principal Owner, former Toronto Raptors President, and Giants of Africa co-founder. Founder, Masai Ujiri, will help you find purpose, develop leadership skills, and build culture.
Application Deadline: April 20, 2026 at 11:59pm PST
– Monica Wright Rogers
Tempo Rising is the Toronto Tempo’s leadership and coaching development program designed to grow the next generation of women coaches. Through mentorship, exclusive access, and hands-on learning, participants will build the skills, confidence, and connections needed to lead in basketball and beyond.
Tempo Rising exists to accelerate women leaders in basketball. We are creating intentional pathways for emerging coaches to access mentorship, professional development, and real-world experiences within the Toronto Tempo ecosystem and the broader game.
Tempo Rising is designed for women at the early stages of their coaching journey who are ready to grow. This includes coaches working with high school, club, or provincial athletes who are passionate about leadership, committed to their development, and motivated to make an impact in their communities.
Applicants must:
Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria at the time of application.
No. Tempo Rising is fully funded by the Toronto Tempo. There is no cost to apply or participate. Selected candidates will be given a $1,000 CAD grant to use towards coaching progress or travel related to the Tempo Rising platform (voluntary).
Tempo Rising participants will receive:
This is designed to be both a learning experience and a lasting network.
Tempo Rising runs over a six-month period, with a mix of virtual sessions and select in-person experiences. Selected applicants can expect a 5-7 hour commitment each month.
Tempo Rising is delivered in a hybrid format. Participants will engage in virtual mentorship and workshops, alongside select in-person experiences facilitated by or with the Toronto Tempo where possible. This approach allows coaches from across Canada and through Giants of Africa to participate while still creating meaningful face-to-face connection.
Applications are reviewed by a Toronto Tempo and Giants of Africa selection committee. Participants are selected based on eligibility, coaching experience, demonstrated leadership potential, alignment with Tempo’s values, and readiness to grow through the program. We are intentionally selecting coaches who will both benefit from and contribute to the cohort.
April 2026. All applicants will be notified by email once the selection process is complete.
Tempo Rising is intentionally designed as a small, high-impact cohort to ensure meaningful mentorship and connection. Three Canadian coaches and three Giants of Africa coaches will be selected to the inaugural Tempo Rising cohort.
No. Coaches from across Canada are encouraged to apply. Virtual programming ensures national access, with select in-person opportunities offered where possible.
Tempo Rising participants become part of the extended Tempo coaching network, with ongoing opportunities to stay connected, access future experiences, and continue growing alongside the Tempo communit
