The Toronto Tempo made a remarkable debut in the WNBA by securing their first victory, defeating the Seattle Storm 86-73. This game took place on Wednesday, following their season opener loss against the Washington Mystics, where they narrowly fell 68-65.
Celebrating the Historic Win
After the game, the team celebrated their landmark victory by playfully soaking head coach Sandy Brondello with water. Guard Brittney Sykes reflected on how it felt to win for their coach and the fans, highlighting that the victory was special for everyone involved.
A Turning Point for the Team
Brondello acknowledged the improvement from the previous match, despite describing her team’s earlier performance as “clunky.” Player Maria Conde shared her excitement, noting the importance of the win for the fans who consistently support the team.
Key Game Highlights
- Marina Mabrey led the team with 26 points, including six three-pointers.
- The Tempo outscored the Storm 42-28 in the second half.
- The team executed a notable 18-6 run during the third quarter.
- Toronto forced Seattle into committing 19 turnovers throughout the game.
Brondello emphasized the significance of defense, stating that limiting the Storm to just 28 points in the second half was a pivotal factor in their success. She expressed her pride in the players’ teamwork, which was crucial to their performance.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Tempo prepares for an upcoming four-game road trip, visiting teams in Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Minnesota. Brondello sees this as an excellent opportunity for team bonding and growth, especially given their recent expansion into the league.
As the Toronto Tempo continues to develop, the players and coaches are focused on improving with each game, reinforcing their determination to rise as a competitive force in the WNBA.
