Kiki Iriafen delivered an impressive performance with 21 points and 13 rebounds, while Shakira Austin contributed 11 points and 10 rebounds as the Washington Mystics secured a 93-82 victory over the undermanned Toronto Tempo on Wednesday night, marking their eighth consecutive win at home.
The defeat officially dashed the Tempo’s playoff hopes in their debut season with a 10-25 record. Austin achieved her 16th double-double of the season, and Iriafen marked her 15th, helping Washington dominate the boards with a 43-27 rebounding advantage over Toronto. Iriafen showcased her shooting prowess, making 8 out of 12 field goal attempts.
In addition to Iriafen and Austin’s stellar performances, Michaela Onyenwere contributed 14 points, sinking four 3-pointers for the Mystics, while Sonia Citron added 13 points and six assists. Washington scored 38 points in the paint, coming close to extending their streak of 40-plus points in the paint for the 12th consecutive game.
Facing the absence of their top three scorers – Marina Mabrey, Brittney Sykes, and Nyara Sabally – in the second game of a back-to-back, Kiki Rice led the way for Toronto with 19 points, supported by Aneesah Morrow’s 13 points and eight rebounds. The expansion Tempo suffered their 12th straight loss.
Washington surged in the second quarter with a 12-0 run, establishing a 37-24 lead as Toronto 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 47-33 advantage.
During the third quarter, Onyenwere’s consecutive 3-pointers extended Washington’s lead to 60-42 midway through the period.
In the upcoming games, the Tempo will host Portland on Friday, while the Mystics will stay at home to face Minnesota on the same day.
