In this episode of Bringing Home the W, we get an inside scoop into the process of through fan-submitted names for Toronto’s new WNBA team. Hosts Tanya Casole-Gouveia and Josh McConnell are joined by Khaleed Juma from Mettle to explore the names that didn’t make the cut, revealing how cultural sensitivity, fan input, and design strategy drive the creation of a team identity. From filtering submissions to balancing creative challenges, this episode offers a peek into how the WNBA and Toronto are working together to shape a team that represents the city and its diverse community.

[03:45] - The importance of fan input in shaping the team’s identity

[07:10] - The need for inclusivity in the final name choice

[12:30] - The unexpected insights that emerged during the vetting process.

[16:55] - The marketing potential of a name

[21:40] - The emotional connection between fans and the team’s name

For updates on future episodes and to follow the journey of WNBA Toronto, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on social media.

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In this episode of Bringing Home the W, we dive into the exciting journey of naming Toronto's new WNBA team. Host Tanya Casole-Gouveia and co-host Josh McConnell are joined by TaJuan Watson, the NBA’s Affiliate Leagues Lead, and Dr. Ana Rita Morais, Design Mentor and Naming Criteria Vetting Lead, to unpack the complex process of creating a team identity that resonates with fans across Canada. From navigating legal considerations to ensuring cultural relevance and inclusivity, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into how the WNBA, Canada, and the basketball community are all coming together to shape a team that truly represents them.

[5:06] - Key guardrails for naming a WNBA team

[8:04] - The components of a team name

[10:18] - Why an emotional response is crucial for a team’s success

[17:23] - The vetting process for name submissions

[22:34] - The marketing potential of a team name

For updates on future episodes and to follow the journey of WNBA Toronto, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on social media.

WNBA Toronto Social Media: Instagram | Twitter | TikTok

In this debut episode of Bringing Home the W, we kickoff the groundbreaking journey of establishing Canada’s first WNBA team. Host Tanya Casole-Gouveia welcomes Teresa Resch, President of WNBA Toronto, to explore how this historic expansion came to be, the significance of Toronto as the chosen city, and how the public is playing a vital role in shaping the team’s identity. If you're curious about sports branding, women's sports, or the behind-the-scenes process of launching a major franchise, this episode, and series, is for you!

Timestamps

[2:16] – Toronto WNBA team's branding journey

[8:45] – Building the team and fan base

[16:30] – Player insights and season preview

[22:00] – Community engagement initiatives

For updates on future episodes and to follow the journey of WNBA Toronto, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on social media.

WNBA Toronto Social Media: Instagram | Twitter | TikTok