**Wings End 11-Game Losing Streak with Victory Over the Lynx**
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The Dallas Wings finally found their way back to the win column, snapping an 11-game losing streak with a hard-fought 94-88 victory over the Minnesota Lynx on Thursday night. The win marked Dallas’ first triumph since May 26, providing a much-needed morale boost for the team.
Arike Ogunbowale led the charge for the Wings, scoring 23 points, including five 3-pointers, and dishing out nine assists. Veteran guard Odyssey Sims, making her season debut, added 18 points, nine of which came in the crucial fourth quarter. Sims, who signed a hardship contract on Tuesday, proved to be a pivotal addition, especially in the game’s closing moments.
The game began with the Lynx in control, as they built a 45-30 lead with just over three minutes left in the second quarter. However, the Wings mounted a spirited comeback, scoring the next 15 points to tie the game at 45-all early in the third quarter. Monique Billings then gave Dallas its first lead since the opening moments of the game with a basket late in the third quarter.
Minnesota, fresh off their first Commissioner’s Cup championship victory over the New York Liberty, fought back to within three points with a minute remaining in the fourth quarter. But Jacy Sheldon sealed the win for Dallas with a wide-open 3-pointer, capping the scoring and ensuring the Wings’ victory.
Sims, who had been playing in a streetball tournament in Paris over the weekend before getting the call from the Wings, was instrumental in the win. She scored two driving layups in the final 3:10, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure. “When the season started, I knew I wasn’t done playing in the league,” Sims said. “Every day, I wake up and go to the gym. And I have a son. So even if I wanted to give up, days I feel like I’m defeated, I still have to push through because I have a son that’s looking up to me to make him proud.”
Teaira McCowan also had a standout performance for Dallas, contributing 17 points and 12 rebounds. Billings finished with 14 points, and Ogunbowale reached the 20-point mark for the 14th time this season. The Wings’ bench was particularly effective, recording their highest bench points of the season with 36.
For the Lynx, Napheesa Collier was the standout player, scoring 29 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Bridget Carleton added 17 points, Alanna Smith had 15, and Kayla McBride chipped in with 11. Despite a strong start, the Lynx were unable to maintain their lead, ultimately succumbing to the Wings’ relentless pressure.
Dallas coach Latricia Trammell praised her team’s resilience and Sims’ impact. “I told them after the game, ‘Tough times don’t last but tough people do,'” Trammell said. “[Odyssey] is a veteran, she’s a baller. She can just go in and play the game. She gave us that energy, that spark, that pace that we’re looking for. I love her coming in and being so confident.”
The Wings have faced several significant injuries this season, including forward Satou Sabally, who has been rehabbing a shoulder injury and isn’t expected to join the team until after the Olympics. Forward Natasha Howard also missed 12 games with a broken foot suffered in the season opener before returning on June 20. Despite these challenges, the Wings showed their determination and depth in their victory over the Lynx.
Ogunbowale highlighted the importance of Sims’ presence on the team. “It helps a ton that we know her; she finished the season with us last year,” Ogunbowale said. “So I know how she plays, she knows how I play. We communicate a lot when we’re on the court. She also came to every home game this year and she supported us even though she wasn’t on the team. That’s a testament to who she is as a person — she’s not bitter even though we didn’t pick her up. She was ready for any team to pick her up.”
The Wings’ victory over the Lynx was a testament to their resilience and ability to overcome adversity. With key players stepping up and a renewed sense of confidence, Dallas will look to build on this win and turn their season around.
Source: AP
