Paige Bueckers led the Dallas Wings to a 94-88 victory over the Toronto Tempo on Wednesday, scoring all 22 of her points in the second half. Bueckers had a standout performance in the third quarter, going 4 of 4 from the field and the free-throw line after struggling in the first half where she missed all seven of her shots. The win ended the Wings’ three-game losing streak, their longest of the season.
Arike Ogunbowale contributed 21 points, setting season highs in free throws and attempts with a 13-14 record, while Alanna Smith recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds. Awak Kuier added 14 points to the scoreboard.
Dallas played without key players Jessica Shepard and Azzi Fudd. Shepard was sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained in the previous game, while Fudd missed her third consecutive game due to a knee injury.
Marina Mabrey played a significant role for the Tempo, scoring 14 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter as they narrowed the gap to three points after trailing by 18 late in the third.
Bueckers showcased her all-around game with eight assists and three steals, one of which led to a crucial breakaway layup extending the lead to 10 points with 3:03 left in the game. The Tempo made a late push, cutting the deficit to four points in the final minute, but Bueckers’ jumper increased the lead 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. Toronto, missing starters Brittney Sykes and Julie Allemand, saw Laura Juskaite score 18 points and Kia Nurse contribute 16 points.
This victory marks a significant win for the Dallas Wings, showcasing a strong team effort led by Bueckers and Ogunbowale against a resilient Toronto Tempo squad.