Ogunbowale Shines with 22 Points as Wings Dominate Aces

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Arike Ogunbowale delivered a standout performance, scoring 22 points and sinking five three-pointers, as the Dallas Wings triumphed over the Las Vegas Aces with a decisive 96-66 victory on Monday night. This win marked the Wings' fifth consecutive success on their home court.

The Wings made a strong start, racking up 29 points in the first quarter and extending their lead to 28 points with just over three minutes left in the first half. However, the Aces managed to close the gap with a 9-0 run, finishing the half at 56-37. Jessica Shepard was instrumental for Dallas, contributing 13 points, eight rebounds, and five assists by halftime, while Ogunbowale and Azzi Fudd each added 11 points.

Paige Bueckers broke a six-minute scoring drought for Dallas with a three-pointer early in the third quarter, increasing their lead to 59-39. The Wings maintained a double-digit advantage throughout the entire second half. Fudd ended the game with 19 points, while Bueckers recorded 10 points and seven assists for the Wings, who now hold a record of 9-5. Awak Kuier, starting for the first time since September 5, 2023, contributed seven points in 27 minutes of play.

Shepard's performance tied her with Angel Reese for the most double-doubles in the WNBA this season, as she exited the game with 4:41 left in the fourth quarter. In related WNBA action, the Minnesota Lynx defeated the Portland Fire 107-74, with Natasha Howard leading the way with 18 points in a game where seven players scored in double figures.

As the WNBA season progresses, the competition for playoff spots intensifies, with the championship game set for June 30.