Paige Bueckers showcased her scoring prowess in the second half, contributing all 22 points as the Dallas Wings secured 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.
Bueckers had a remarkable performance in the third quarter, going 4 for 4 from both field goals and free throws, tallying 13 points after a scoreless first half. The Wings, who were on a three-game losing streak, managed to end their slump with this win.
Arike Ogunbowale also played a crucial role, scoring 21 points, including season-high free throws, making 13 out of 14 attempts. Additionally, Alanna Smith recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Awak Kuier contributed 14 points to the team’s victory.
The Dallas team had to play without key players Jessica Shepard and Azzi Fudd. Shepard sustained an ankle injury in the previous game against Minnesota, while Fudd was sidelined for the third consecutive game due to a knee injury.
Despite a late surge by the Tempo in the fourth quarter, led by Marina Mabrey’s 14 of 23 points during that period, they couldn’t close the gap entirely after being down by 18 points in the third quarter.
Bueckers’ stellar performance continued with eight assists and three steals, one of which resulted in a breakaway layup extending the lead to 10 points with just over three minutes left on the clock. She shot 7 of 11 from the field in the second half and made all her seven free throws during that period.
In response, the Tempo narrowed the margin to four points in the final minute, but Bueckers’ jumper increased the lead back to six before a charge was called on Isabelle Harrison.
The Toronto team, missing key starters Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand, had Laura Juskaite scoring 18 points and Kia Nurse adding 16 points in the losing effort.