In just their second home game as an expansion franchise, the Toronto Tempo will host the Seattle Storm on Wednesday night, aiming for their first-ever victory.
The Tempo (0-1) narrowly lost their debut at Coca-Cola Coliseum on Friday, falling 79-76 to the Washington Mystics. Despite the defeat, Marina Mabrey delivered an impressive performance, scoring 27 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and dishing two assists. The Notre Dame product signed a two-year, $2.4 million contract with Toronto after being selected with the sixth overall pick in the joint expansion draft.
Mabrey, previously a reserve with the Connecticut Sun, was a candidate for Sixth Player of the Year in 2021 and 2024. She also led the 3-on-3 Unrivaled league in scoring this winter, averaging 25.3 points per game. “I want to win really bad,” Mabrey said after the loss. “I know if I can bring that kind of energy, it can be contagious for everyone.”
Brittney Sykes was the only other Toronto player to reach double figures, contributing 14 points. The Tempo’s chances were hurt by 16 turnovers and nine missed free throws. Coach Sandy Brondello emphasized the need for improvement: “We’ve got to get back to being a selfless team and let our defense create our offense.”
The Storm (1-1) are finding their footing under first-year coach Sonia Raman. After a season-opening loss to the Golden State Valkyries, Seattle rebounded with an 89-82 road win over Connecticut on Sunday. Lexie Brown sparked the offense with 17 points off the bench, going 5-of-6 from deep, while rookie Flau’Jae Johnson impressed with 16 points, six rebounds, three steals, an assist, and a block.
General Manager Talisha Rhea praised the LSU product: “Flau’jae is a dynamic, talented young player who impacts both ends. She’s a great defender and will be a key piece for our future.” Through two games, Johnson, Jade Melbourne, and Dominique Malonga are each averaging at least 13.5 points.
