Kiki Iriafen led the Washington Mystics to a 93-82 victory over the short-handed Toronto Tempo on Wednesday night, recording 21 points and 13 rebounds. The win marked the Mystics’ eighth consecutive home victory, while also sealing the Tempo’s elimination from playoff contention in their debut season.
Shakira Austin contributed 11 points and 10 rebounds, securing her 16th double-double of the season, while Iriafen notched her 15th. Washington dominated the boards, outrebounding Toronto 43-27, with Iriafen shooting an impressive 8 of 12 from the field.
In addition to Iriafen’s performance, Michaela Onyenwere scored 14 points, including four 3-pointers, and Sonia Citron added 13 points and six assists. The Mystics showcased their inside presence by scoring 38 points in the paint, narrowly missing their 12th consecutive game with 40 or more points in the paint.
With Toronto missing their top scorers – Marina Mabrey, Brittney Sykes, and Nyara Sabally – Kiki Rice led the Tempo with 19 points, while Aneesah Morrow contributed 13 points and eight rebounds. The expansion Tempo suffered their 12th straight loss.
The Mystics took control in the second quarter with a 12-0 run, establishing a 47-33 lead at halftime after outscoring Toronto 22-9 in the period. Onyenwere extended Washington’s lead to 60-42 in the third quarter with back-to-back three-pointers.
Looking ahead, the Tempo will host Portland on Friday, while the Mystics will stay home to face Minnesota on the same day.
