Isabelle Harrison Leads Short-Handed Tempo to Victory in Vancouver

The Toronto Tempo finally ended their difficult losing streak on Friday night, earning an 82-79 victory over the Portland Fire at Rogers Arena in Vancouver.

Isabelle Harrison delivered a standout performance with 25 points and 10 rebounds, helping the short-handed Tempo secure their first win in 12 games.

The victory improved Toronto’s record to 11-25 and marked the team’s first win since defeating the New York Liberty on July 12 in Montreal.

Harrison Leads Toronto’s Comeback Effort

Toronto faced another challenging situation with several key players unavailable, but Harrison stepped up as the team’s main offensive leader.

The veteran forward controlled the game inside while also providing important rebounding support throughout the matchup.

Rookie guard Kiki Rice also played a major role, matching her career high with 19 points on 7-of-9 shooting.

Laura Jukaite added 15 points, giving Toronto enough offensive production to hold off Portland in a close finish.

Tempo Survive Late Portland Rally

The game featured several momentum swings.

Portland built an early advantage and led by as many as 13 points in the first quarter. However, Toronto continued fighting back and eventually gained control behind a strong second-half performance.

Rice helped create separation late in the game, converting a three-point play that gave Toronto a 75-63 lead with 6:26 remaining.

Portland responded with a 13-0 run, fueled by three-pointers from Nyadiew Puoch, Bridget Carleton, and Emily Engstler. The rally gave the Fire a 76-75 lead with just over three minutes left.

After the teams traded defensive stops, Harrison finally ended the scoring drought with a floater, putting Toronto back in front. The Tempo held the lead until the final buzzer.

Portland had a final opportunity to tie the game, but Carleton’s contested three-point attempt missed as time expired.

Portland Receives Strong Performances Despite Loss

The Fire received a strong offensive contribution from Bridget Carleton, who scored 18 points, including five three-pointers.

Megan DiLeo added 14 points, while Emily Engstler finished with 13 points and Serah Williams contributed 10 points.

Portland entered the game trying to close the gap in the playoff race but was unable to complete the comeback.

Injuries Continue to Impact Toronto

Toronto’s victory was especially impressive considering the team’s injury situation.

The Tempo were without leading scorer Marina Mabrey because of a right adductor injury.

Nyara Sabally and Maria Conde were also unavailable due to calf injuries, removing two players who had combined for 70 starts this season. Maria Conde Jersey

The injury problems continued during the game, as Brittney Sykes exited early because of a foot injury, while Aneesah Morrow left in the second quarter with a knee injury.

Despite the depleted roster, Toronto found enough production from its remaining players to secure a crucial win.

Toronto Builds Momentum Before Next Challenge

The Tempo will continue their Vancouver stretch with another matchup at Rogers Arena against the Las Vegas Aces.

The win over Portland provides a confidence boost for Toronto after a difficult period, especially with younger players taking on larger responsibilities.

With injuries still affecting the roster, the Tempo will need continued contributions from players like Harrison and Rice as they look to finish the season strongly.

Final Score: Toronto Tempo 82, Portland Fire 79