On a thrilling Thursday night in Arlington, Texas, the Dallas Wings showcased the promising talent of their rookie class, securing a 98-89 victory over the Phoenix Mercury. This win marked the Wings' fifth triumph in their last seven games, boosting their 2025 WNBA season record to 7-13. The shorthanded Wings, missing star guard Arike Ogunbowale and playing with just eight players, relied heavily on their young guns, with rookies Aziaha James and Paige Bueckers leading the charge.
Aziaha James, the 12th overall pick in the 2025 WNBA draft, delivered a career-high performance, pouring in 28 points, including five three-pointers, while also contributing six rebounds and six assists. James's shooting was particularly impressive, as she shot 55.6% from beyond the arc, lighting up the scoreboard early and often. Her 20 points in the first half alone set the tone for the Wings, who came out roaring with a near-perfect first quarter, shooting 76.9% from the floor and hitting all nine of their free throws in that frame.
Fellow rookie and the top overall pick Paige Bueckers added a solid 23 points, along with four rebounds, five assists, and a steal. Bueckers continued to make history for the franchise, recording her seventh 20-point game of the season and securing the third spot for most 20-point games by a rookie in Wings history. Her sharpshooting and playmaking helped Dallas build an 18-point lead by halftime, with the Wings finishing the half on a 61-43 run, shooting an efficient 61% overall and hitting seven of 13 three-point attempts.
Supporting the rookie duo, JJ Quinerly set a career-high with 17 points, while second-year player Li Yueru was a force inside, tallying 12 points and 11 rebounds. Luisa Geiselsoder, the fourth rookie starter, chipped in four points, rounding out a youthful and energetic lineup that proved too much for the Mercury to handle.
Despite the loss, the Phoenix Mercury had standout performances of their own. Kahleah Copper led the charge with a season-high 33 points, marking the 11th 30-point game of her career. Copper was a deadly shooter, knocking down 57.1% of her three-point attempts and scoring eight points in less than a minute during a third-quarter rally. All-Star forward Satou Sabally contributed 20 points and two steals, while Monique Akoa Makani added 14 points. Alyssa Thomas provided a strong all-around effort with nine points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, helping Phoenix trim the Wings' lead to just four points at 67-63 midway through the third quarter.
However, the Wings responded swiftly. James answered with a three-point play, and Dallas maintained control, entering the fourth quarter with an 82-71 lead. The Wings then extended their advantage to 18 points at 92-74, thanks to clutch free throws from Bueckers and solid team defense that stifled the Mercury's comeback attempts.
The game also highlighted the Wings' resilience and depth. Playing without Ogunbowale, Dallas managed to maintain a high level of efficiency, shooting 76.9% from the floor in the first quarter and sustaining strong shooting percentages throughout the game. Their ability to capitalize on free throws and convert three-pointers was a key factor in their victory.
Following the game, the WNBA recognized the Wings' impressive run on social media, celebrating their fifth win in seven games and highlighting James's historic performance. James became only the fifth rookie in WNBA history to record a stat line of at least 25 points, five rebounds, five assists, and five made three-pointers in a single game, a testament to her all-around impact on the court.
For the Mercury, this loss marked their second consecutive defeat, ending a six-game winning streak that had positioned them as one of the league's top contenders. Phoenix will look to rebound when they face the Wings again on Monday, July 7, marking the third meeting between these two teams this season. The rivalry is heating up, and both squads will be eager to assert dominance in their upcoming clash.
As the Wings continue to develop their young core, the performances of James and Bueckers offer exciting glimpses into the team's future. Their ability to step up in crucial moments, especially in the absence of key veterans, underscores the depth and potential within the Dallas roster. Meanwhile, the Mercury's balanced attack, led by Copper and Sabally, remains formidable, promising intense battles ahead.
The Wings’ victory on Thursday night was not just a win on the scoreboard but a statement of growth and resilience. With rookies leading the way and veterans supporting the charge, Dallas is carving out a competitive identity in the 2025 WNBA season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these young stars continue to rise and the Wings push for greater success.
