Paige Bueckers led the Dallas Wings to a 94-88 victory over the Toronto Tempo by scoring all of her 22 points in the second half. Bueckers had a stellar performance in the third quarter, going 4 for 4 from the field and the free-throw line after a rough start in the first half where she missed all seven of her shots. The win ended the Wings’ three-game losing streak, the longest of their season.
Arike Ogunbowale contributed 21 points, achieving season highs in free throws and attempts by making 13 out of 14 shots, while Alanna Smith recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds. Awak Kuier also added 14 points to the scoreboard.
The absence of All-Star Jessica Shepard and rookie top pick Azzi Fudd affected Dallas as they played without them. Shepard sustained an ankle injury in the previous game against Minnesota, whereas Fudd missed her third game due to a knee injury.
Marina Mabrey had an impressive fourth quarter for the Tempo, scoring 14 of her 23 points as they tried to close the gap after trailing 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 that extended the Wings’ lead to 10 points with 3:03 left in the game. Despite the Tempo reducing the deficit to four points in the final minute, Bueckers’ jumper widened the gap to six before a charge was called on Isabelle Harrison.
Bueckers excelled in the second half, shooting 7 of 11 from the field and making all seven of her free throws. On the other side, Laura Juskaite scored 18 points, and Kia Nurse added 16 for Toronto, who were missing starters Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand.