Wings finish sweep of Dream, secure first WNBA playoff series win since moving to Dallas

The Wings celebrated their first playoff series victory in Dallas history after crushing the Atlanta Dream with a 101-74 victory to advance to the WNBA semifinals. Arike Ogunbowale demonstrated her control of the game with creativity and uniqueness, scoring on three possessions while assisting her teammate Natasha Howard on two others. This surge boosted the Wings into an 18-point lead by halftime. Seven Wings players, including all five starters, finished in double figures, marking the first time in WNBA playoff history for such an accomplishment.

This performance will be particularly memorable, as the victory marks the return to the semifinals for the first time since 2009. Ogunbowale led the way with 20 points and seven assists but emphasized the team’s journey to reach this milestone after struggling over the years. In this move forward winning both games of the series, the defensive edge also would not allow the Dream to turn the game around.

Dallas used a collective effort from starters and reserves with Awak Kuier as a difference-maker off the bench. Kuier, who scored 9 points coming from this reserve, could also be seen as a large part of the team’s win. The Wings’ defense controlled the pace and exploited transition opportunities to thwart the Dream’s game plan. Additionally, the Wings focused on the goal of pushing the offense with outstanding wings to support their stars in their recent game.

Ogunbowale’s performance against Dream star Rhyne Howard was particularly remarkable as she kept the capable player from significantly advancing her team’s position. With Ogunbowale guarding Howard, the Dream struggled to find their footing. Despite a determined effort by the Dream in the third quarter, they were unable to close the gap. The Dallas Wings’ head coach Latricia Trammell is appreciative of her team’s efforts, as is Greg Bibb, president and CEO of the team, for the incredible win.

Moving forward, the Wings will face the defending champion Las Vegas Aces in the next round. After the victory, Arike Ogunbowale stated that the team would keep their focus locked on Vegas, recognizing it as one of the best teams in the league. Furthermore, Trammell is commending Brown and expressing hope that she will stay with the team as the playoffs continue. This progression comes alongside the vote for Coach of the Year, in which Trammell was the runner-up and Brown also secured a vote for Sixth Woman of the Year. These recognitions, though they are appreciated, are only a small part of what the Wings are aiming for.

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Rachel Adams

Rachel Adams is your WNBA insider, delivering comprehensive coverage of women’s basketball. With a commitment to highlighting the talent and achievements of WNBA players, she provides game analysis, player profiles, and inspiring stories from the league.