The expansion Toronto Tempo secured their first-ever franchise victory on Wednesday night, defeating the Seattle Storm 86-73 in a historic win for Canadian basketball. Star acquisition Marina Mabrey led the charge with 26 points, showcasing a vastly improved performance compared to the team's season-opening loss.
Improved Performance Across the Board
After shooting just 27% from the field and 20% from three-point range in their debut loss to the Washington Mystics, the Tempo displayed a much more relaxed and effective offensive game. Mabrey, who had struggled from the field in the opener despite scoring 27 points mostly from free throws, connected on 6-of-11 three-point attempts and 9-of-20 shots overall. She only attempted two free throws this time, highlighting her efficient shooting.
Guard Brittany Sykes also rebounded strongly from a 4-for-18 shooting performance in the first game, scoring 18 points while grabbing eight rebounds and dishing out six assists. The team's ball movement improved dramatically, with 21 assists compared to just 10 in the opener.
"We shared the ball," head coach Sandy Brondello said. "So, we made steps forward. Obviously, not our end destination, you know, we're looking at getting better."
Strong Contributions from Bench and Defense
The Tempo controlled the first quarter and reclaimed the lead in the third period after trailing at halftime, fueled by an 18-6 run. Maria Conde provided a spark off the bench with 16 points, while top draft pick Kiki Rice added 12. Toronto's defense, a bright spot in the opening loss, remained solid, particularly down the stretch.
Brondello earned her 272nd regular-season victory as a WNBA head coach, ranking sixth all-time, and now has at least one win with four different franchises. She could move up to fourth on the all-time wins list later this season.
"The other day, we were sad that we couldn't get it for (the fans)," Brondello said. "But tonight was just special, first win for a coach, for the team, for the country, and I think we just gotta keep building on this."
Upcoming Road Trip
Toronto now heads on the road for four consecutive games, starting with a matchup against the struggling Los Angeles Sparks. The Sparks have had defensive issues against top teams like Las Vegas and Indiana. The Tempo will also face Phoenix and Minnesota before returning home to host fellow expansion team Portland on May 21.
Tempo Players Grace SLAM Magazine Cover
In a further sign of the team's rising profile, Mabrey and Sykes were featured on the cover of the June/July issue of SLAM magazine, posing with the words "Turn up the Tempo." The cover was revealed on Thursday, following earlier SLAM covers for Toronto Raptors stars Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram.
