Kiki Iriafen recorded 21 points and 13 rebounds, while Shakira Austin contributed 11 points and 10 rebounds as the Washington Mystics triumphed over the undermanned Toronto Tempo with a score of 93-82 on Wednesday evening, marking their eighth consecutive win at home.
This defeat officially ended the Tempo’s playoff hopes in their debut season, with a win-loss record of 10-25. Austin secured her 16th double-double of the season, and Iriafen achieved her 15th as the Mystics dominated the rebounding battle, outclassing Toronto 43-27. Iriafen showcased her shooting prowess, going 8 of 12 from the field.
In addition to the stellar performances by Iriafen and Austin, Michaela Onyenwere contributed 14 points, sinking four 3-pointers for Washington (21-14). Sonia Citron added 13 points and facilitated six assists. The Mystics were dominant in the paint, scoring 38 points, narrowly missing their 12th consecutive game with 40 or more points in the paint.
Facing the absence of their top scorers Marina Mabrey, Brittney Sykes, and Nyara Sabally in the second game of a back-to-back, Kiki Rice led the Tempo with 19 points, while Aneesah Morrow chipped in with 13 points and eight rebounds as the expansion team suffered their 12th consecutive loss.
Washington gained momentum in the second quarter with a 12-0 run, establishing a 37-24 lead as the Tempo struggled to find their shooting rhythm, missing their initial five attempts. The Mystics continued their dominance in the second quarter, outscoring Toronto 22-9 to head into halftime with a comfortable 47-33 advantage.
Onyenwere’s consecutive three-pointers in the third quarter extended Washington’s lead to 60-42 midway through the period.
Looking ahead, the Tempo are set to host Portland on Friday, while the Mystics will remain at home to face Minnesota on the same day.