Marina Mabrey erupted for 53 points on Thursday night, setting a new WNBA single-game scoring record and leading the expansion Toronto Tempo to a 112-98 win over the Los Angeles Sparks at Scotiabank Arena.
Record-Breaking Performance
Mabrey, a 6-foot-2 guard, surpassed the previous record of 51 points held by Liz Cambage (2021) and Riquna Williams (2013). She shot 18-of-30 from the field, including 8-of-14 from three-point range, and made 9-of-10 free throws. Her 53 points are the most ever scored by a player in a WNBA regular-season game.
“I just felt in a rhythm,” Mabrey said. “My teammates found me in great spots, and I was able to knock down shots. It’s a special night, but the win is what matters most.”
Game Summary
The Tempo (12-8) trailed 52-48 at halftime before Mabrey took over in the third quarter, scoring 18 points to give Toronto a 78-74 lead. She added 15 more in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. The Sparks (8-12) were led by Dearica Hamby’s 22 points and 11 rebounds, but they had no answer for Mabrey.
Impact on League
Mabrey’s performance underscores the growing talent in the WNBA, especially with the expansion team’s success. The Tempo, in their inaugural season, are now fourth in the standings. “She was incredible,” said Tempo coach Noelle Quinn. “We’ve seen her work ethic all season, and tonight it all came together.”
The previous record of 51 points was set by Cambage in 2021 while playing for the Las Vegas Aces. Williams achieved the feat in 2013 as a member of the Tulsa Shock.
