Full Breakdown
Ogunbowale’s 45-Point Playoff Record Keeps Dallas Wings Alive
By Drooid · · How we work
Game-Changing Performance
Arike Ogunbowle scored a WNBA-playoff record 45 points as the Dallas Wings erased a three-point deficit in the final seconds of regulation and won 108–100 in overtime against the Golden State Valkyries. With 4.1 seconds left, Ogunbowle hit an off-balance corner three to tie the game at 93. After a brief replay review and a jump-ball, the Wings seized control in overtime, outscoring the Valkyries 15–8 and forcing a decisive Game 3.
Statistical Highlights
- Scoring line: 45 points, 12-of-23 FG, 5-of-8 3-pt, 16-of-18 FT; 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals.
- Team shooting: Dallas shot 50 % from the field and 12-of-23 from three, drew 37 free-throw attempts and committed 13 turnovers.
- Historical context: The 45 points are the most ever in a WNBA playoff game, surpassing the previous 42-point high. Ogunbowle also became the first player to score 40+ points in a winning effort while facing elimination.
- Opposition performance: Golden State’s Gabby Williams posted a career-high 36 points and seven assists; the Valkyries allowed 108 points, the most they have ever surrendered.
Background & Context
The Wings entered Game 2 as the No. 7 seed trailing 1-0 in a best-of-three series against the No. 2-seed Valkyries. A 104–80 loss in Game 1 left Dallas on the brink of elimination. Rookie guard Paige Bueckers was limited to 10 points on 3-of-13 shooting.
Official Statements & Responses
Wings head coach Jose Fernandez praised the collective effort, noting that the team “had other people step up” after Bueckers’ limited production.
Player Reactions (Verbatim Quotes)
- “We wanted to come out with a different intensity.” — Arike Ogunbowle, Dallas Wings guard
- “I’m so proud of our effort and the way we fought.” — Alysha Clark, Dallas Wings forward
Why It Matters
Ogunbowle’s performance set a new scoring benchmark and demonstrated the Wings’ capacity to win under elimination pressure. The win marked the first time the Valkyries, who posted the league’s best defensive rating (99.1) and a 32-10 regular-season record, allowed more than 92 points in a game, positioning Dallas as an upset threat in the series.
What’s Next
The series returns to San Francisco’s Chase Center for Game 3 on Friday night. Both coaches emphasized disciplined defense and focused execution as the winner advances to the semifinals.
