On Friday night, the Dallas Wings started strong but faltered as the Golden State Valkyries unleashed a second-half offensive explosion, scoring 56 points to secure an 86-76 victory.
Initially, the Valkyries struggled, managing only 30 points in the first half. However, they turned the tide after trailing by 12 early in the third quarter, netting 33 points in that period alone to take a 63-60 lead into the final quarter.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, the Wings kept the pressure on, tying the game at 71 with a floater from Paige Bueckers. The intensity heightened as both teams vied for control.
With less than three minutes left, Golden State held a narrow 75-72 advantage when Temi Fagbenle's offensive rebound extended a crucial possession. Her layup and subsequent three-point play pushed the Valkyries ahead 78-72, shifting momentum decisively.
In the closing moments, Hayes converted 5 of 6 free throws while Veronica Burton added 3 of 4, sealing the win for Golden State.
Despite shooting over 40% for the fourth consecutive game and hitting double-digit three-pointers for the third straight outing, Dallas struggled at the free-throw line and on the boards.
Post-game, Bueckers addressed the team's challenges, particularly regarding missed free throws and rebounding. "They got more offensive rebounds than us and a lot of them were at pivotal points in the game," she noted. "These are all things we can control and improve on."
Rookie Bueckers led all scorers with 17 points, supported by Arike Ogunbowale with 16, Aziaha James contributing 13, and Haley Jones adding 10.
The loss leaves the Wings at 7-18 for the season, placing them 12th out of 13 teams in the WNBA standings. Looking ahead, Dallas will return to Arlington's College Park Center for a four-game homestand, starting Sunday against the Las Vegas Aces at 3 p.m. CT.
