Kiki Iriafen delivered a strong performance with 21 points and 13 rebounds, while Shakira Austin contributed 11 points and 10 rebounds as the Washington Mystics secured a 93-82 victory over the undermanned Toronto Tempo on Wednesday night, marking their eighth consecutive win at home.
The defeat officially ended the Tempo’s playoff hopes in their debut season with a record of 10-25. Austin recorded her 16th double-double of the season, and Iriafen achieved her 15th, leading Washington to dominate the boards with a 43-27 rebounding advantage over Toronto. Iriafen showcased her efficiency by shooting 8 of 12 from the field.
For the Mystics, Michaela Onyenwere tallied 14 points, including four 3-pointers, while Sonia Citron contributed 13 points and six assists. The team scored 38 points in the paint, narrowly missing their 12th consecutive game with 40 points or more.
Facing a depleted Toronto squad without their top scorers Marina Mabrey, Brittney Sykes, and Nyara Sabally, Kiki Rice led the Tempo with 19 points, supported by Aneesah Morrow with 13 points and eight rebounds as the expansion team suffered their 12th straight loss.
Washington took control in the second quarter with a 12-0 run, establishing a 37-24 lead as Toronto struggled to find their rhythm, missing their first five shots. The Mystics continued their dominance in the second quarter, outscoring the Tempo 22-9 to head into halftime with a 47-33 advantage.
In the third quarter, Onyenwere’s consecutive three-pointers extended Washington’s lead to 60-42 midway through the period.
Upcoming games:
– Tempo: Home game against Portland on Friday.
– Mystics: Host Minnesota at home on Friday.
