Connecticut Sun's Aaliyah Edwards Excited for Toronto Tempo Debut

0:00It's April 29th, I'm Cory with the story, and this is Hartford News Today, Local News Powered by AI. Connecticut's Sun Forward, Aliyah Edwards is buzzing about the team's preseason opener against the new Toronto Tempo on Wednesday at 7pm. It's the first taste of action for both squads, with the tempo gearing up as the WNBA's first international expansion team set to join in 20. Edwards, from Kingston, Ontario, has been flooded with ticket requests from family and friends, and she expects the arena to be full of familiar faces. Canadian fans have shown massive support already, selling out big exhibition games last year, like the Chicago sky versus Minnesota links matchup with. Over 19,000 seats. Edwards lit up when the tempo got announced last May, seeing it as a huge boost for young girls in Canada chasing women's basketball dreams. She's pumped to play near home, but knows it'll feel different as the visiting team, usually repping Canada on the national squad.

1:01Her Connecticut teammates are hide for her, backing her all the way through this unique moment. In training camp, rookie point guard Charlize Lager Walker, the Sun's 2026 second-round pick from UCLA, has stood out big time. Coaches and vets praise her smarts, passing, and quick adjustment to running the offense. Former Harvard guard Harmony Turner is turning heads to with her fire after stints overseas and could land a developmental spot. This young roster, with just 3 players over 4 years in the league and 6 rookies, faces a real test Wednesday. All-star center Brittany Griner wants to see how they handle runs and adversity, building that defensive identity early. The Sun's laying the foundation for a gritty season ahead.