Arike Ogunbowale's Heroics Propel Dallas Wings to Narrow Victory Over Atlanta Dream
In a nail-biting finish, the Dallas Wings edged past the Atlanta Dream with an 85-82 victory, thanks to a stellar performance by Arike Ogunbowale and a flurry of critical plays in the final minutes. The win marked only the second victory for the Wings in their last 16 games, lifting their spirits as they snapped a three-game losing streak.
Ogunbowale's leadership was evident as she scored 19 points, including pivotal free throws that sealed the game. Jacy Sheldon also shined, hitting five 3-pointers and setting a career-high with 17 points. Their combined efforts were instrumental in the Wings’ much-needed victory.
The Wings capitalized on the Dream's season-high 28 turnovers, turning 16 of those into steals and converting them into 38 points. This defensive pressure was crucial in the tight contest, especially as the Dream shot an impressive 56% from the field.
With 3:10 remaining, Ogunbowale's three-point play and Teaira McCowan’s free throws shifted the momentum. A costly turnover by Atlanta led to a McCowan basket, giving Dallas a 74-71 lead. Although Cheyenne Parker-Tyus managed to score for the Dream, Odyssey Sims responded with a high-arcing three-pointer, extending the Wings’ lead to 77-73 with two minutes to go.
Allisha Gray attempted to keep the Dream in contention, hitting a three-pointer and drawing a foul, though she missed the subsequent free throw. However, Sims' steal and layup shortly after gave Dallas a 79-76 lead. Natasha Howard’s jumper further extended the lead, and Ogunbowale’s clutch free throws in the final seconds secured the win.
McCowan finished with a double-double, scoring 16 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, while Sims contributed 14 points and seven assists. Natasha Howard added 10 points, rounding out a solid team performance.
For the Dream, Allisha Gray led with 19 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds. Haley Jones and Maya Caldwell both hit season-highs, scoring 16 and 11 points, respectively. Tina Charles, who contributed 12 points, made history by surpassing Tamika Catchings to move into third place on the WNBA’s career-scoring list with 7,383 points.
Despite trailing 61-60 entering the fourth quarter, the Wings showed resilience. They had not won any of their previous 13 games when trailing after three quarters. Their ability to overturn this trend was crucial, as they narrowly missed covering the spread but ensured a win for those who bet on the over, with the teams combining for 167 points against a 162.5 over/under.
Key plays defined the match, with the Wings reclaiming leads at critical moments. They demonstrated tenacity and strategic defense, epitomized by Sims' five steals.
This victory is a positive sign for the Wings as they look to build momentum in the remainder of the season, while the Dream will aim to rectify their turnover issues and continue their pursuit of consistent performances.
Key Points:
- Player Highlights: Arike Ogunbowale (19 points), Jacy Sheldon (17 points, five 3-pointers), Teaira McCowan (16 points, 11 rebounds), Odyssey Sims (14 points, seven assists).
- Dream Leaders: Allisha Gray (19 points, eight assists, seven rebounds), Haley Jones (16 points), Tina Charles (12 points, career milestone), Maya Caldwell (11 points).
- Crucial Stats: Dream's 28 turnovers, 16 Dallas steals, Wings' 38 points off turnovers.
- Betting Insights: Dallas won at -189 odds, over/under was 162.5, final score 167 points.