Paige Bueckers displayed a remarkable second-half performance, scoring all 22 of her points to lead the Dallas Wings to a 94-88 victory over the struggling Toronto Tempo on Wednesday. This defeat marked the Tempo’s 10th consecutive loss since their expansion into the league.
After a scoreless first half, Bueckers shone in the third quarter, going a perfect 4 of 4 from both the field and the free-throw line, contributing 13 crucial points. The Wings snapped their three-game losing streak, the longest they had experienced this season.
Arike Ogunbowale also delivered a strong performance, scoring 21 points and achieving season-high numbers in free throws, making 13 out of 14 attempts. Alanna Smith added 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Awak Kuier contributed 14 points to the winning effort.
Missing key players Jessica Shepard and Azzi Fudd, the Wings persevered through the absence of their All-Star and top draft pick. Shepard sustained an ankle injury in the previous game, while Fudd was sidelined for the third consecutive game due to a knee injury.
In a late-game push, Marina Mabrey showcased her skills by scoring 14 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter, rallying the Tempo within three points after trailing by 18 in the third quarter.
Bueckers demonstrated her all-around game with eight assists and three steals, one of which led to a crucial breakaway layup, extending the Wings’ lead to 10 points with just over three minutes remaining. Despite a late surge by the Tempo to narrow the gap to four points, Bueckers’ clutch jumper increased the lead to six before a charge was called on Isabelle Harrison.
Bueckers’ efficient second-half performance included shooting 7 of 11 from the field and making all seven of her free-throw attempts. Toronto saw strong contributions from Laura Juskaite, who scored 18 points, and Kia Nurse, who added 16 points, despite missing starting players Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand.