The Portland Fire achieved their first road win in franchise history on Saturday night, defeating the Toronto Tempo with a score of 99-80.
Coach Alex Sarama commended the team’s offensive performance following the victory, which also marked a franchise record for points scored in a single game.
Leite’s Contribution to Record-Breaking Win
Portland outscored Toronto 55-36 in the second half, which included an 11-0 run in the fourth quarter. This improved their season record to 3-3.
Carla Leite contributed 15 points and nine assists to the Fire’s success. Emily Engstler led Portland with 16 points and seven rebounds, also recording four blocks. Bridget Carleton also scored 15 points, Megan Gustafson added 14, and Sarah Ashlee Barker contributed 12.
Tempo’s Performance and Sabally’s Return
Marina Mabrey led Toronto with 19 points and eight assists. Rookie Kiki Rice matched her season high with 19 points on 8-of-11 shooting. Brittney Sykes added 10 points for the Tempo, who now have a 3-4 record.
Nyara Sabally returned for Toronto after a two-game absence due to a neck injury, scoring nine points in 23 minutes.
Coach Sarama’s Reaction
Sarama said the team displayed “just great team basketball tonight” after the win. He explained the team aimed to have multiple offensive options, not just relying on one or two players. Sarama felt the shot quality was “elite tonight.”
Portland’s Karlie Samuelson, who has been sidelined with a left foot injury, was available but did not make her season debut.
The Fire will continue their road trip Monday against New York, while Toronto hosts Chicago on Wednesday.