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. thesqueezes.substack.com
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
The Toronto Tempo were already shorthanded — and then they lost The Chef. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 89-80 loss to the Phoenix Mercury at Scotiabank Arena, a game defined by who wasn’t on the floor. Just two days after tying the WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points, Marina Mabrey missed the game with neck spasms , joining Brittney Sykes and Kiki Rice on the injury list. Without their three-headed offensive engine, Toronto still had chances, but could not get enough stops or enough shot creation late. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Lose Without Mabrey * Toronto falls 89-80 to Phoenix * Marina Mabrey misses the game with neck spasms * Tempo drop back to .500 * Rough timing after Mabrey’s historic 53-point night 🏥 Injuries Are Defining the Season * Mabrey out with neck spasms * Brittney Sykes still out * Kiki Rice still out * Toronto missing its top three offensive weapons 🧠 Julie Allemand Steps Up * 11 points * 10 assists * 7 rebounds * Second straight double-double * More aggressive as a shooter and passer without Mabrey 📈 Tima Pouye Has Her Best Tempo Game * 13 points * 4 assists * +6 off the bench * Best performance since joining Toronto * One of the few real positives from the loss 😬 Kia Nurse Starts, But Concerns Continue * Starts in place of Mabrey * Scores 12 points * Still finishes -18 * Shot-heavy minutes continue to hurt the offensive flow 🧱 Frontcourt Couldn’t Take Over * Niara Sabally finishes with 14 points * Isabelle Harrison adds playmaking and energy 🔥 Phoenix Gets the Big Plays * Kahleah Copper leads the Mercury with 27 📉 Fourth Quarter Slips Away * Toronto led by two at halftime ⏳ Next Up: Dallas Wings After the Break * Tempo now off until July 5 * Dallas, Golden State, New York, Washington, Atlanta, Vegas and Minnesota all looming 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Dallas Wings🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo need rest, health and answers before July 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
What a birthday present from The Chef. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to one of the greatest performances in WNBA history as Marina Mabrey ties the WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points in Toronto’s massive 125-97 win over the Los Angeles Sparks . Mabrey was unstoppable, finishing with: 🔥 53 points🔥 17-of-28 from the field🔥 9 made threes🔥 10-of-12 from the free throw line🔥 6 rebounds🔥 +36 With Brittney Sykes and Kiki Rice still out , Toronto needed a statement — and Mabrey delivered one of the best games the league has ever seen. 🚨 In this episode: 🔥 Marina Mabrey Makes WNBA History * Record-tying 53 points * Career high in points * Career high in made threes * One of the best individual performances in WNBA history * Why Mabrey belongs in the All-Star conversation — and maybe the MVP conversation 💥 Toronto Blows Out LA * Tempo beat the Sparks 125-97 * Toronto gets back to 9-9 * Most complete game since losing Sykes and Rice * Huge confidence boost before a difficult July schedule 🧠 Julie Allemand Masterclass * 13 points * 14 assists * 4-of-4 from the field * 3-of-3 from three * Controlled the offense and kept feeding Mabrey 💪 Laura Yuskaitė Double-Double * 10 points * 12 rebounds * Massive work on the glass * Helped Toronto dominate the rebounding battle 📈 Role Players Step Up * Maria Conde adds 13 points * Izzy Harrison chips in 9 points and 6 rebounds * Temi Fagbenle adds 6 rebounds in 20 minutes * Toronto finally gets a complete team effort around Mabrey 🏀 Sparks Shorthanded * LA played without Kelsey Plum * Cameron Brink also out * Dearica Hamby and Nneka Ogwumike still both scored 21 * Toronto handled business against the team in front of them 📊 Tempo Dominate the Box Score * 51% from the field * 57-36 rebounding edge * 15 offensive rebounds * 26 assists * Only 10 turnovers * 125 total points ⭐ All-Star Voting Push * Mabrey needs to be an All-Star * Sykes, Kiki Rice and Sabally still deserve votes * Last chance to make the Tempo heard ⏳ Next Up: Phoenix Mercury at Scotiabank Arena * Huge game at Scotiabank * Toronto has a chance to go above .500 * Long homestand continues * July schedule gets very difficult after Phoenix 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Phoenix Mercury🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 Chef Mabrey just gave Toronto a night to remember 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
Another tough one against Atlanta. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 94-87 loss to the Atlanta Dream , a game that started ugly, got briefly interesting, but ultimately showed the gap between the shorthanded Tempo and one of the WNBA’s strongest teams. Toronto fell behind 33-15 after the first quarter , battled back in stretches, but never fully recovered from the early hole. The positives? Izzy Harrison had her best all-around game as a Tempo player , Niara Sabally returned to the lineup, and Temi Fagbenle gave Toronto some real minutes before fouling out. The problem?The depth still is not there — especially with Brittney Sykes and Kiki Rice out. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Tempo Fall Back Under .500 * Toronto loses 94-87 to Atlanta * Tempo drop to 8-9 * Dream improve to 12-4 * Atlanta wins wire-to-wire 📉 First Quarter Disaster * Atlanta jumps out to a 7-0 lead * Toronto falls behind 31-8 💪 Izzy Harrison Delivers * 21 points 🔥 Marina Mabrey Keeps Carrying the Offense * 23 points 🏀 Niara Sabally Returns * Back in the starting lineup * 9 points and 5 rebounds 👀 Temi Fagbenle Shows Signs * 10 points in 14 minutes * Best game of her season so far 📊 Kia Nurse Shows a Pulse * 15 minutes * 4 points, 4 assists 🧱 Depth Questions Remain * Bench production still thin * Toronto missing two major starters in Sykes and Rice ⏳ Next Up: Los Angeles Sparks * Tempo have split the season series with LA * Kelsey Plum is priority No. 1 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Los Angeles Sparks🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo are 8-9 and searching for answers 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
Money Mabrey delivered exactly when Toronto needed her most. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to the Toronto Tempo’s wild 101-97 comeback win over the Connecticut Sun , powered by a career-high 37 points from Marina Mabrey . With Brittney Sykes, Kiki Rice and Nyara Sabally all out of the lineup, Toronto looked dead in the water after falling behind by 20. But Mabrey caught fire, dropped 23 points in the fourth quarter , and dragged the Tempo back to .500. And she wasn’t alone. Temi Fagbenle also had a career night, finishing with 19 points on 8-of-9 shooting , while Izzy Harrison and Maria Conde gave Toronto exactly the kind of support they needed. 🚨 In this episode: 🔥 Marina Mabrey Career Night * Career-high 37 points * Career-high 9 made threes 😱 Huge Comeback Win * Toronto wins 101-97 * Tempo were down 52-32 at one point 🏥 Injury Updates on Sykes & Rice * Brittney Sykes dealing with plantar fasciitis * Kiki Rice has a Grade 3 ankle sprain * Both expected back this season 💪 Temi Fagbenle Responds * Career-high 19 points 🧱 Frontcourt Finally Shows Signs * Izzy Harrison adds 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists 📈 Role Players Step Up * Maria Conde scores 19 😬 Bench Depth Still a Problem * Kia Nurse struggles again * Bench minutes remain a concern ⏳ Next Up: Atlanta Dream Rematch * Izzy Harrison vs Angel Reese rematch looming * Atlanta blew out Toronto last time 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Atlanta Dream🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo are back to .500 — and Money Mabrey just saved the night 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
This one felt bigger than the final score. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 113-91 loss to the Indiana Fever — a game overshadowed by a scary non-contact injury to Brittney Sykes in the third quarter. The Tempo were competitive in the first half, trailing by just three at the break, but everything changed after Sykes went down. Indiana took control behind huge performances from Kelsey Mitchell, Caitlin Clark, Aaliyah Boston, and Sophie Cunningham , handing Toronto its third straight loss. Now the conversation shifts from one game to a much bigger question: What does this team do if Sykes misses extended time? 🚨 In this episode: 😟 Brittney Sykes Injury Concern * Sykes exits in the third quarter with a non-contact injury * No official update yet at the time of recording * Why this could be a turning-point moment for Toronto’s season * Sykes has been the heartbeat of the Tempo on both ends 😬 Toronto Drops Third Straight * Tempo lose 113-91 to Indiana * Toronto falls back to 7-8 * Third straight loss against stronger competition * Playoff hopes now facing a major test 🔥 Indiana’s Stars Take Over * Caitlin Clark: 21 points, 14 assists, 5 rebounds * Kelsey Mitchell: 27 points on 9-of-11 shooting * Aaliyah Boston: 18 points, 11 rebounds * Sophie Cunningham: 24 points, 6-of-7 from three Toronto simply had no answer. 🎯 Marina Mabrey’s Strong Night * 18 points * 7 assists * 2 steals and a block * Better shot profile with only five three-point attempts * One of the few real positives for Toronto 📈 Laura Yuskaitė Continues to Produce * 19 points * 8-of-11 shooting * 4 assists * One of Toronto’s most reliable players on the night 🚨 Injury Problems Are Piling Up * Kiki Rice still out * Nyara Sabally still out * Julie Allemand exits early with a headache * Brittney Sykes now injured * Toronto may be without several of its most important players 📉 Depth Concerns Are Getting Real * Kia Nurse minutes remain a concern * Temi Fagbenle still not producing consistently * Maria Conde struggles defensively * Expansion-team depth is being tested hard 🧠 Is It Time for “The Talk”? * Are the Tempo still a playoff team without Sykes? * Should Toronto consider roster cuts or moves? * Why trading draft picks would be risky for an expansion franchise * What the long-term plan should look like ⏳ Next Up: Connecticut Sun * Toronto gets Connecticut again * Last matchup was a 106-102 overtime win * But Sykes had 38 in that game * What does this team look like without her? 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Connecticut Sun🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 Hoping for the best for Slim 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
That one got ugly fast. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s rough 102-77 loss to the Atlanta Dream , a game that started with promise before completely slipping away. The Tempo jumped out to a 25-13 first-quarter lead , but Atlanta responded with a massive second quarter, took control, and never looked back. The biggest storyline? Izzy Harrison was ejected after a physical battle with Angel Reese , ending what had been one of the few bright spots for Toronto. 🚨 In this episode: 😬 Toronto Drops Second Straight * Tempo lose 102-77 at home * Toronto falls back to .500 * Ugly response after the buzzer-beater loss in Washington 🚨 Izzy Harrison Ejected * Harrison was battling Angel Reese all night * Finished with 17 points before getting tossed * Brought energy, toughness and frontcourt scoring * Why the ejection effectively ended Toronto’s chances 🔥 Atlanta’s Stars Took Over * Rhyne Howard: 24 points * Allisha Gray: 26 points * Angel Reese: 15 points, 17 rebounds * Jordan Canada: +30 with 9 assists This is what a true contender looks like. 📉 Mabrey & Sykes Struggle * Marina Mabrey: 9 points on 2-of-11 shooting * Brittney Sykes: 11 points on 5-of-12 shooting * Toronto’s offense stalled when the stars couldn’t carry it 🏀 Rebounding Problem Returns Again * Atlanta out-rebounded Toronto 54-37 * Dream grabbed 14 offensive boards * Angel Reese nearly had half as many rebounds as the entire Tempo team 🧠 Julie Allemand Shows Some Offense * Opened the game with a three * Finished with 13 points and 6 assists * One of her best offensive performances of the season 📉 Second Quarter Collapse * Toronto led by 12 after one * Atlanta won the second quarter 34-14 * Dream flipped the game with pace, threes and transition offense 🧱 Depth Issues Becoming Clear * No Kiki Rice * No Nyara Sabally * Bench production remains thin * Expansion team reality starting to show against elite opponents ⏳ Next Up: Indiana Fever * First matchup against Caitlin Clark * Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston also loom large * Another tough road test coming quickly * Toronto needs to find answers fast 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Indiana Fever🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo are still .500 — but the schedule is getting tougher 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
That one hurts. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s heartbreaking 86-85 loss to the Washington Mystics after Sonia Citron hit a last-second buzzer beater to steal the game. Toronto trailed by as many as 18 points , mounted a furious fourth-quarter comeback, and briefly took the lead in the final seconds before Washington answered with the dagger. The Tempo showed resilience — but the bigger issue was inconsistency. 🚨 In this episode: 💔 Buzzer-Beater Heartbreak * Toronto loses 86-85 in Washington * Sonia Citron hits the game-winner * Tempo fall to 0-2 against the Mystics this season * Three-game winning streak slips away 🔥 Marina Mabrey Nearly Saves It * 27 points * 9-of-15 from the field * 5-of-10 from three * Took over late in the fourth quarter * Nearly stole the game with a massive comeback push 💪 Brittney Sykes Gives Toronto the Lead * 20 points on 50% shooting * Huge late layup gave Toronto a one-point lead * Continues to be one of Toronto’s most reliable closers 🏀 Rebounding Was the Difference * Washington out-rebounded Toronto 44-29 * Mystics grabbed 15 offensive rebounds * Toronto had only 5 offensive boards * Shakira Austin’s size was a major issue again 😬 Frontcourt Still Searching for Health * Niara Sabally out * Temi Fagbenle returns on a minutes restriction * Isabelle Harrison starts and fills the stat sheet * Toronto still hasn’t seen Harrison, Sabally and Fagbenle together 🧠 Julie Allemand Steadies the Offense * 9 points, 3 assists, 2 rebounds * Team-high +15 * Why her value is not always obvious in the box score 📉 Inconsistency Remains the Theme * Tempo struggled for most of the game * Fell behind by 18 * Fourth-quarter fight was impressive, but avoidable * Toronto still needs to play a full 40 minutes 👶 Washington’s Young Core Shows Up * Lauren Betts scores 18 off the bench * Shakira Austin posts 12 points and 11 rebounds * Sonia Citron delivers the game-winner * Mystics depth and size created problems all night ⏳ Next Up: Atlanta Dream * Massive test coming at home * Atlanta brings elite rebounding and scoring * Angel Reese, Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard all loom large * Tough schedule stretch begins now 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Atlanta Dream🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo are 7-6 — resilient, but still searching for consistency 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
That was a rollercoaster. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s wild 106-102 overtime win over the Connecticut Sun — the first overtime victory in franchise history. It was not supposed to be that hard. After an ugly first half where Toronto struggled defensively, got hammered on the glass, and trailed by 11 at halftime, the Tempo found a way to claw back behind another massive performance from Brittney Sykes. Sykes tied her career high with 38 points , added 4 rebounds, 2 steals and a block, and helped drag Toronto across the finish line in overtime. 🚨 In this episode: 🔥 First Overtime Win in Franchise History * Toronto beats Connecticut 106-102 * Tempo improve to 7-5 * First OT game and first OT win for the franchise 💪 Brittney Sykes Carries Toronto * 38 points in 41 minutes * 13-of-13 from the free throw line * 50% from three * Continues proving she is the heartbeat of the Tempo 🎯 Marina Mabrey vs Her Former Team * 21 points against Connecticut * Hit big shots late despite some rough stretches * Huge steal in overtime helped seal the win 😬 Ugly First Half * Connecticut scored 57 by halftime * Toronto’s transition defense struggled badly * Sun dominated the glass early * Tempo looked a step slow for long stretches 🏀 Rebounding Problems Return * Connecticut out-rebounded Toronto 57-40 * Sun grabbed 18 offensive rebounds * Olivia Nelson-Ododa caused major problems inside 🇨🇦 Aaliyah Edwards Shows Out * 24 points on 8-of-9 shooting * Strong performance from the Canadian forward * Two missed late free throws helped swing the game 📈 Free Throws Save Toronto * Tempo shot 43 free throws * Sykes, Sabally and Yuskaitė carried the load at the line * Toronto’s best offense came from attacking instead of settling 😅 Izzy Harrison Comes Back Down * Rough shooting night after strong return vs Chicago * Still brings needed leadership and frontcourt presence * Why patience matters as she works back from injury ⏳ Next Up: Washington Mystics * Quick turnaround on the road * Rematch of Toronto’s first-ever WNBA game * Shakira Austin and Sonia Citron will be major problems again * Tempo now sitting 7th in the WNBA standings 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Washington Mystics🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo survive, advance, and move to 7-5 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
Welcome back, Izzy Harrison. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s convincing 85-68 win over the Chicago Sky in the Tempo’s first Commissioner’s Cup game of the season. With Kiki Rice sidelined by injury, Toronto desperately needed a frontcourt boost — and Isabelle Harrison delivered immediately. In just 17 minutes, Harrison finished with: 🔥 14 points🔥 6 rebounds🔥 2 assists🔥 +15 Her return completely changed the look of the Tempo offense, giving Toronto a true stretch big and a veteran frontcourt presence they’ve been missing all season. 🚨 In this episode: 🔥 Izzy Harrison Makes Immediate Impact * 14 points in 17 minutes * Hit two huge threes * Added spacing, rebounding and veteran poise * Why her return changes Toronto’s offense 🏀 Frontcourt Help Finally Arrives * Toronto has needed size all season * Harrison gives Sabally much-needed support * Tempo finally get a look at what this roster can be when healthier 💪 Brittney Sykes Sets the Tone * Team-high 25 points * 7 rebounds and 3 assists * Continued attacking the rim * Led Toronto in minutes and plus/minus 🧠 Marina Mabrey Does More Than Score * Only 9 points, but strong all-around impact * 6 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals and a block * No personal fouls after recent frustration concerns 📈 Nyara Sabally Keeps Building * 8 of Toronto’s first 10 points * Finished with 16 points * Continues to look more comfortable offensively 📉 Three-Point Shooting Still a Concern * Tempo shot just 4-of-22 from three * Luckily, Chicago struggled even more * Why Toronto’s free throw balance mattered again 🇨🇦 Commissioner’s Cup Win * First Commissioner’s Cup game for Toronto * Point differential matters * Tempo win every quarter or tie it 📊 Quarter-Season Check-In * Toronto improves to 6-5 * One quarter of the WNBA season is complete * Have the Tempo exceeded expectations so far? ⏳ Next Up: Connecticut Sun * Toronto hosts the struggling Connecticut Sun * Chance to build momentum at home * Big opportunity before a tougher stretch against Atlanta and Indiana 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Connecticut Sun🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 Toronto is above .500 again 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
The Toronto Tempo ran into their toughest test of the season — and it came with a major scare. In this episode of Set The Tempo , Tyler Conium reacts to Toronto’s 97-82 loss to the New York Liberty, a game that was overshadowed late by an ankle injury to rookie guard Kiki Rice. The Tempo started strong, but New York’s size, experience, and frontcourt dominance eventually took over. Jonquel Jones was the story of the night, putting up a massive performance inside as Toronto’s ongoing frontcourt issues showed up again. 🚨 In this episode: 😟 Kiki Rice Injury Concern * Kiki Rice leaves late with an ankle injury 🏀 Toronto Falls Back to .500 * Tempo lose 97-82 to New York 🔥 Mabry & Sykes Lead the Offense * Marina Mabry finishes with 17 points 😤 Jonquel Jones Dominates Inside * 22 points and 17 rebounds 🧱 Liberty Size Was the Difference * Breanna Stewart struggled early but still finished with 19 points and 9 rebounds 📉 Toronto’s Offense Fades After Strong Start * Tempo led after the first quarter 🧠 Sandy Brondello’s Return to New York * No revenge win for Brondello against her former team ⏳ Next Up: Chicago Sky * Tempo return home for two straight games 📅 Next Game: Toronto Tempo vs Chicago Sky🎧 New episodes after EVERY Tempo game 📲 Follow @TylerConium🇨🇦 The Tempo are 5-5 — and waiting on Kiki Rice news 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
