The Toronto Tempo are set to face the Los Angeles Sparks on Friday night in search of their second consecutive victory. This matchup begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will be broadcast live on TSN4, as well as available on the TSN App and TSN.ca.
Tempo’s Recent Triumph
The Tempo (1-1) achieved a significant milestone with their first-ever win in franchise history on Wednesday. They defeated the Seattle Storm, securing an 86-73 victory at home. Marina Mabrey played a pivotal role, scoring 26 points, including six three-pointers, leading the team. Brittney Sykes contributed 18 points, along with eight rebounds and six assists.
Player Highlights
- Marina Mabrey: Currently averaging 26.5 points per game over two games.
- Brittney Sykes: Impressive all-around game with significant contributions in points and rebounds.
- Kiki Rice: Sixth overall pick, scored 12 points in her second game, improving from her first outing.
Head coach Sandy Brondello praised Mabrey’s shooting ability, calling her “one of the best shots in this league.” She commented on the importance of having a player who commands attention from defenders.
Upcoming Challenges
This match against the Sparks marks the beginning of a challenging three-game road trip for the Tempo. After facing Los Angeles, they will travel to Phoenix and Minnesota before returning home to play against the Portland Fire on Saturday, May 23.
Brondello expressed enthusiasm about the road trip, highlighting the opportunity for players to bond and develop their skills against strong opponents. She acknowledged the toughness ahead but sees it as a valuable chance for growth.
Facing the Sparks
The Tempo will confront veteran guard Kelsey Plum from the Sparks, who currently averages 26.0 points per game with a remarkable shooting percentage of 55.9%. Meanwhile, the Sparks, who have struggled defensively, allow 96.0 points per game, ranking third worst in the league.
Offensive Statistics
Both teams have faced difficulties scoring, ranking among the lowest in the league:
| Team | Points Per Game |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles Sparks | 78 PPG |
| Toronto Tempo | 75.5 PPG |
As the Tempo prepare to challenge the Sparks, anticipation builds for another thrilling contest on the road. Fans can look forward to watching these teams battle it out live on TSN.
