Paige Bueckers showcased a remarkable second-half performance by scoring all 22 of her points to lead the Dallas Wings to a 94-88 victory over the struggling Toronto Tempo on Wednesday. The win marked the Tempo’s 10th consecutive loss.
Struggling in the first half with zero successful shots out of seven attempts, Bueckers turned the game around by going a perfect 4 of 4 from both the field and the free-throw line in the third quarter, contributing 13 crucial points. The Wings snapped a three-game losing streak, their longest of the season.
Arike Ogunbowale had an impressive game as well, scoring 21 points and achieving season highs in free throws and attempts, making 13 out of 14 shots. Alanna Smith posted a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Awak Kuier added 14 points to the scoreboard.
Despite missing key players like All-Star Jessica Shepard and rookie Azzi Fudd due to injuries, Dallas managed to secure the win. Marina Mabrey led the charge for the Tempo, scoring 14 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter as they attempted a late comeback after trailing by 18 points in the third.
Bueckers, with eight assists and three steals, played a pivotal role in maintaining Dallas’ lead, including a crucial steal that led to a breakaway layup, extending their advantage to 10 points with just over three minutes remaining. The Tempo narrowed the gap to four points in the final minute, but Bueckers’ clutch jumper increased the lead to six before a charge was called on Isabelle Harrison.
In the second half, Bueckers continued her stellar performance by shooting 7 of 11 from the field and converting all seven of her free-throw attempts. Laura Juskaite contributed 18 points, and Kia Nurse added 16 for Toronto, who were without starters Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand.