ARLINGTON, Texas (June 17, 2025) — In a much-needed return to the win column, the Dallas Wings snapped a seven-game losing streak with an 80-71 victory over the Golden State Valkyries Tuesday night at College Park Center. Rookie phenom Paige Bueckers led the way with 20 points, while veteran guard Arike Ogunbowale added 19 points and six assists, climbing to second on the franchise’s all-time assists leaderboard.
The win improves Dallas to 2-11 on the season, while Golden State—an expansion team in its inaugural campaign—falls to 5-6 after entering the contest riding a three-game win streak.
Strong Start Sets the Tone
Making her first career start, rookie Aziaha James joined Bueckers, Ogunbowale, Myisha Hines-Allen, and NaLyssa Smith in a new-look Wings starting five that paid immediate dividends. Dallas held Golden State to just 16 first-quarter points, their lowest by an opponent in an opening frame all season. Bueckers poured in eight early points as the Wings took a 23-16 lead.
Momentum Swings in the Second
Dallas extended its advantage to double digits midway through the second quarter before the Valkyries stormed back with a 13-2 run, briefly taking a 34-33 lead. The Wings countered with back-to-back threes from Ogunbowale and DiJonai Carrington, regaining a 39-36 edge at the break.
Neck-and-Neck Through Three
The third quarter featured 10 lead changes and multiple ties as the game remained tight. The Wings leaned on their backcourt once again, with Bueckers, Ogunbowale, and Kaila Charles each contributing key buckets to maintain a slim 58-57 edge entering the final period.
Clutch Defense Seals It Late
Tied 70-70 with under five minutes to play, Dallas clamped down defensively, holding the Valkyries without a field goal the rest of the way. Golden State managed just one free throw in the closing stretch while committing five costly turnovers. Bueckers and Ogunbowale combined for nine of Dallas’ final 10 points to seal the victory.
Stat Leaders & Key Contributions
- Paige Bueckers: 20 points, 4 steals (career high), 9-18 FG
- Arike Ogunbowale: 19 points, 6 assists (2nd all-time in Wings history)
- NaLyssa Smith: 10 rebounds, anchoring a +11 edge on the glass
- Kaila Charles: 10 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals
- Myisha Hines-Allen: 9 points, 6 rebounds
Golden State’s Monique Billings led all Valkyries with 18 points and eight rebounds. Kayla Thornton added 17, while Veronica Burton dished out five assists.
Despite being narrowly outshot from the field and beyond the arc, Dallas outscored Golden State in second-chance points (20-6), points in the paint (32-30), and fast break opportunities (14-6). The Wings’ defense forced 17 turnovers and turned them into 14 points.
Up Next
The Wings hit the road for a two-game swing beginning Friday against the Connecticut Sun at Mohegan Sun Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT and will air nationally on ION.
With a statement win now in the books, the Wings look to build on the momentum as they chase consistency—and health—in the weeks ahead.
