In a commanding performance at the Dallas arena on Sunday, the Dallas Wings defeated the Seattle Storm 92-70, matching the franchise’s best single‑season win total. The win keeps the Wings in contention for a playoff berth as they head into a crucial home game against Portland on Tuesday.
Early surge sets the tone
Freshman guard Paige Bueckers was unstoppable in the first quarter, scoring 18 of her 32 total points. She made seven of eight shots, including all four of her three‑point attempts, propelling Dallas to a 34‑17 lead in the opening ten minutes. Her hot start gave the Wings a comfortable cushion that they never relinquished.
Supporting contributions
Veteran forward Jessica Shepard added a double‑double with 11 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the interior while the team shot efficiently from the field, converting 33 of 66 attempts (50%). The Wings also hit 11 of 23 three‑pointers and were perfect from the free‑throw line, making 15 of 17 attempts (88%).
Seattle tried to rally in the second quarter, scoring the final 14 points of the period and holding Dallas scoreless for the last four minutes of the half, but the Storm still trailed 56‑35 at halftime.
Storm’s effort
Seattle’s Flau’jae Johnson matched her career high with five three‑pointers and finished with 23 points. Jade Melbourne contributed 15 points, and Dominique Malonga added 12, but the Storm’s offense could not keep pace with Dallas’s early dominance.
Injuries and absences
The Wings were without Azzi Fudd (knee) and Aziaha James (leg), while Seattle’s Natisha Hiedeman missed the game with a shoulder injury. Despite the missing players, Dallas maintained its offensive rhythm and defensive pressure throughout the contest.
Looking ahead
With the victory, the Wings improve to 22‑16 and remain within striking distance of a playoff spot. Their next challenge is a home matchup against the Portland team on Tuesday, a game that could clinch postseason qualification. Meanwhile, the Storm, now 7‑31, have lost three straight and 14 of their last 15 games, and they will travel to host Toronto on Wednesday.
The Wings’ performance highlights the impact of young talent combined with veteran steadiness, a formula that could carry the team deep into the postseason if they continue to execute at this level.
Original reporting: Fort Worth, TX Sports (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
