Paige Bueckers showcased a stellar performance in the second half, scoring all 22 of her points as the Dallas Wings secured a 94-88 victory over Toronto on Wednesday. This win dealt a blow to the expansion Tempo, who suffered their 10th consecutive loss.
Bueckers had a remarkable turnaround, going 4 for 4 from both the field and the free-throw line in the third quarter, totaling 13 points after a scoreless first half. The Wings snapped a three-game losing streak, their longest of the season.
Arike Ogunbowale contributed 21 points, setting season highs in free throws and attempts by going 13 of 14, while Alanna Smith recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds. Awak Kuier added 14 points to the scoreboard.
Missing key players, including All-Star Jessica Shepard and rookie top draft pick Azzi Fudd, Dallas faced challenges. Shepard sustained an ankle injury in the previous game against Minnesota, while Fudd was sidelined for the third game due to a knee injury.
Marina Mabrey made a notable impact, scoring 14 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter as the Tempo rallied and narrowed the gap to three points after trailing by 18 in the third.
Bueckers demonstrated her all-around game with eight assists and three steals, one of which led to a crucial breakaway layup, extending the lead to 10 points with just over three minutes remaining. The Tempo fought back, reducing the deficit to four points in the final minute, but Bueckers’ jumper increased the lead to six before a charge was called on Isabelle Harrison.
In the second half, Bueckers shot 7 of 11 from the field and converted all seven of her free throws. Laura Juskaite contributed 18 points, while Kia Nurse added 16 for Toronto, who played without starters Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand.
