Paige Bueckers showcased an impressive performance by scoring all 22 of her points in the second half as the Dallas Wings secured a 94-88 victory over the struggling Toronto Tempo on Wednesday. This win marked the Tempo’s 10th consecutive loss since their expansion into the league.
Bueckers, who struggled in the first half by missing all seven of her shots, bounced back in the third quarter with a stellar 13-point performance, going 4 of 4 from the field and free-throw line. Arike Ogunbowale contributed 21 points, setting season highs in free throws and attempts by going 13 of 14, while Alanna Smith recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Additionally, Awak Kuier chipped in with 14 points.
Despite missing key players like Jessica Shepard and Azzi Fudd due to injuries, Dallas managed to halt their three-game losing streak. Shepard sustained an ankle injury in the previous game, while Fudd has been sidelined for three games due to a knee issue.
Marina Mabrey led the charge for the Tempo with 23 points, 14 of which came in the fourth quarter, where the team cut an 18-point deficit to just three late in the game. However, it was not enough to overcome the Wings’ lead.
Bueckers displayed her all-around skills with eight assists and three steals, including a crucial steal that led to a breakaway layup, extending Dallas’ lead to 10 points with just over three minutes remaining. The Tempo managed to reduce the deficit to four points in the final minute, but Bueckers’ jumper widened the gap to secure the Wings’ victory.
Bueckers’ exceptional performance continued in the second half, shooting 7 of 11 from the field and making all seven of her free throws. Laura Juskaite contributed 18 points, and Kia Nurse added 16 for Toronto, who were without key starters Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand.