Paige Bueckers displayed a stellar performance, scoring 22 points in the second half to lead the Dallas Wings to a 94-88 victory over the struggling Toronto Tempo, who suffered their 10th consecutive loss. Bueckers, who had a slow start with no points in the first half, went 4 for 4 from both the field and the free-throw line in a remarkable 13-point third quarter. This win snapped the Wings’ three-game losing streak, their longest of the season.
Arike Ogunbowale contributed 21 points, setting season highs in free throws and attempts by making 13 of 14 shots, while Alanna Smith recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds. Awak Kuier added 14 points to the scoreboard. Notably, Dallas played without key players – All-Star Jessica Shepard and rookie top draft pick Azzi Fudd, with Shepard nursing an ankle injury from the previous game and Fudd sidelined due to a knee issue.
In a valiant effort, Marina Mabrey scored 14 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter, rallying the Tempo to cut the lead to three points after being down by 18 late in the third quarter. Bueckers showcased her all-around skills with eight assists and three steals, one of which led to a crucial breakaway layup for a 10-point advantage with just over three minutes left in the game.
Despite a late surge by the Tempo to reduce the deficit to four points, Bueckers maintained her composure, sinking a jumper to extend the lead to six points before a charge was called on Isabelle Harrison. Bueckers excelled in the second half, shooting 7 for 11 from the field and making all seven of her free throws.
On the opposing side, Laura Juskaite contributed 18 points, and Kia Nurse added 16 for Toronto, who were missing starters Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand for the game.