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WNBA scores delivered a stunning playoff thriller Wednesday night as Arike Ogunbowale scored a league-record 45 points to keep the Dallas Wings alive. Dallas defeated the Golden State Valkyries 108-100 in overtime, leveling their first-round series and forcing a decisive Game 3.
Ogunbowale’s remarkable performance came with the Wings’ season on the line. After struggling in the series opener, the four-time All-Star responded with a historic offensive explosion, repeatedly taking over in the biggest moments. Her performance set a new WNBA playoff scoring record, surpassing the previous mark of 42 points.
WNBA Scores Reveal Ogunbowale’s Historic Playoff Takeover
The Dallas guard was at her best when the pressure reached its highest point. With the Wings trailing by three late in regulation, Paige Bueckers found Ogunbowale near the left baseline. Ogunbowale dribbled toward the corner and knocked down an off-balance 3-pointer with 4.1 seconds remaining, tying the game at 93.
That shot sent the contest into overtime and sparked an even more dominant stretch from Ogunbowale. She opened the extra period by banking in a 3-pointer, then added another long-range shot to give Dallas a 103-100 lead with 1:46 left. The Wings never surrendered that advantage.
Ogunbowale finished with 22 points across the fourth quarter and overtime, scoring 11 in each period. Her 45 points also exceeded her previous overall career high of 41 and easily eclipsed her prior playoff best of 24.
Dallas Finds Crucial Support Around Its Star
Although Ogunbowale supplied the headline performance, Dallas received important contributions from several teammates. Alysha Clark tied her playoff career high with 21 points, while Aziaha James added 13.
Bueckers endured a difficult shooting night, finishing with 10 points after making just 3 of 13 attempts. However, the 2025 No. 1 overall pick made a major impact by assisting on Ogunbowale’s tying 3-pointer and the shot that opened overtime. She also recorded four assists.
Wings coach Jose Fernandez praised the team’s resilience after the victory, particularly because Bueckers was not producing her usual offensive numbers.
“For us to do what we did today without Paige having the type of game that she always has offensively for us, to come out with a win is huge,” Fernandez said, as reported by ESPN.
Golden State’s Strong Effort Fades in Overtime
The Valkyries received a brilliant performance of their own from Gabby Williams. She scored a career-high 36 points in the regular season or playoffs, shooting 12 of 23 from the field.
Williams helped Golden State remain competitive throughout regulation, but the Valkyries struggled badly in overtime. They made only two of 12 shots during the extra period and failed to score after the tense exchange between Ogunbowale and Tiffany Hayes with the score tied at 98.
Both players were assessed flagrant fouls after making contact, and each converted two free throws with 2:26 remaining. Dallas then controlled the final minutes.
Golden State also faced a dramatic officiating moment late in regulation. Gabby Williams was initially called for an offensive foul on an inbound play following a Valkyries timeout. After a replay review, the decision was overturned, leading to a jump ball instead of free throws for Dallas. The ensuing Golden State attempt missed badly as the buzzer sounded.
Decisive Game 3 Awaits in San Francisco
The series now returns to San Francisco on Friday for a winner-take-all matchup. Golden State won the opener by 24 points and will try to advance in the postseason for the first time in franchise history during its second season.
Dallas, meanwhile, is seeking its second semifinal appearance in six playoff trips since moving to the Dallas area in 2016. The Wings will need another aggressive effort from Ogunbowale, while hoping Bueckers can rediscover her shooting rhythm.
- Arike Ogunbowale: 45 points, a WNBA playoff record
- Alysha Clark: 21 points for Dallas
- Gabby Williams: 36 points for Golden State
- Final score: Dallas Wings 108, Golden State Valkyries 100
- Series status: Tied 1-1 heading into Game 3
“We got one at home, and we got to bring our best,” Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase said. “Tomorrow’s got to be clear minds, clear focus, clear game plan, and then be ready to go for the game at home.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Wings-Valkyries game?
The Dallas Wings defeated the Golden State Valkyries 108-100 in overtime in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series.
Who scored the most points?
Arike Ogunbowale led all scorers with 45 points, setting a WNBA playoff record.
When is Game 3?
The deciding Game 3 will be played Friday night in San Francisco.
How did Paige Bueckers perform?
Bueckers scored 10 points and contributed four assists. Despite a difficult shooting night, she assisted on two key 3-pointers by Ogunbowale.
