Arike Ogunbowale delivered a historic performance, scoring a WNBA playoff-record 45 points to propel the No. 7 seeded Dallas Wings to a thrilling 108-100 overtime victory against the No. 2 seeded Golden State Valkyries. This win extends the series to a decisive Game 3.
The veteran guard’s late-game heroics included a clutch fadeaway three-pointer in the final seconds of regulation, which forced the game into overtime. Remarkably, Ogunbowale tallied 22 of her points during the fourth quarter and extra period, securing Dallas’ first victory over Golden State this season.
Dallas guard Paige Bueckers praised Ogunbowale’s impact, stating, “I can’t even put into words what she just did. She really carried us.” Despite Bueckers being limited to just 10 points by the Valkyries’ defense, the Wings found crucial contributions from 38-year-old Alysha Clark, who scored 21 points off the bench, and Aziaha James, who added 13 more.
Key Performances and Series Outlook
On the opposing side, Gabby Williams led Golden State with 36 points, matching Ogunbowale’s intensity throughout the contest. The closing moments were marked by physicality, as both Ogunbowale and Dallas teammate Tiffany Hayes were assessed flagrant fouls during a scrappy finish.
Golden State coach Natalie Nakase reflected on the loss, acknowledging the team’s shortcomings: “That was not our best. Tomorrow’s got to be clear minds, clear focus, clear game plan, and then be ready to go for the game at home.”
The series will conclude with Game 3 on Friday at 9 PM ET, broadcast on ESPN2, where both teams will battle to advance in the playoffs.