The crowded Valkyries’ frontcourt likely didn’t have room for Temi Fagbenle, but the center got a huge payday with another expansion team.

Fagbenle signed a one-year deal worth $1 million with the Tempo, according to ESPN, ending her tenure with Golden State.

“Temi brings consistency and toughness to everything she does,” said Tempo GM Monica Wright Rogers in a statement. “She plays the game the right way, defending, rebounding, finishing around the rim and doing the work that impacts winning. Her experience anchoring the paint as a starter and her ability to contribute on both ends make her an important addition as we continue to shape our identity.”

Last season Fagbenle averaged 7.4 points per game with 4.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists while shooting 50.2% from the field. She was the Valkyries’ expansion draft pick from Indiana.

“I’m excited for this next chapter with the Toronto Tempo,” Fagbenle said in a release. “The opportunity to be part of a new franchise with a strong vision and competitive mindset is something that really drew me in. Toronto is such a vibrant, diverse city, and that resonates with who I am and what I value. I’m looking forward to helping build something special here.”

Iliana Rupert emerged as Golden State’s center of the future after she averaged 9.3 points with 3.9 rebounds and shot 44.2% from three-point range after joining the team midseason. Then, when they signed veteran center Kiah Stokes to come off the bench, that likely signaled the end of Fagbenle’s time with the Valkyries.

Fagbenle is one of the best defensive centers in the WNBA and became a target for the Tempo after they did not get Shakira Austin, whom they extended an offer sheet to before she returned to Washington.

The Valkyries have plenty of size, with Rupert and Gabby Williams to make up a starting frontcourt, with 2025 All-Star Kayla Thornton still in the fold and versatility from Janelle Salaun and rookie Marta Suarez.