Rookie JJ Quinerly Shines with 15 Points in First Start as Wings Defeat Mystics

DALLAS - In her inaugural WNBA start, JJ Quinerly made a significant impact, scoring a season-high 15 points, while fellow rookie Aziaha James matched her effort, contributing another 15 to propel the Dallas Wings to a 79-71 victory against the Washington Mystics on Saturday night.

Notably absent from the lineup was Paige Bueckers, who sat out due to a right knee issue. Details surrounding her condition remain unclear, especially following her impressive performance just a day prior, where she netted 27 points and dished out six assists in nearly 37 minutes during a loss to the Indiana Fever.

The Wings surged ahead early, establishing a commanding 28-9 lead by the end of the first quarter, shooting an impressive 61% from the field. They maintained this momentum, heading into halftime with a 45-31 advantage, equaling their largest lead of the season.

However, the Mystics fought back fiercely, opening the third quarter with a 12-0 run that narrowed the gap to just two points at 45-43. This resurgence was short-lived, as Dallas quickly regained control.

Fueled by Kaila Charles' three-point play, the Wings responded with an 8-0 run, capped off by James' long-range shot, extending their lead to 62-51. The fourth quarter began with Dallas scoring seven consecutive points, pushing their lead to 15.

Arike Ogunbowale added 14 points to the Wings' tally, while Myisha Hines-Allen contributed significantly with 13 points, six rebounds, five assists, and three steals. The bench also played a crucial role, outscoring Washington's reserves 36-5.

For the Mystics, Sonia Citron led the way with a double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds. Shakira Austin supported with 18 points, while Brittney Sykes returned to the starting lineup, contributing six points in 26 minutes of play.