Kennedy Martin Transfers to Penn State, Bolstering Reigning Volleyball Champions

Liberty Hit Season-High in Points The New York Liberty showcased their offensive firepower on Tuesday night, defeating the Los Angeles Sparks 105-97 at Crypto.com Arena. The victory marked the Liberty’s highest point total of the season and tied head coach Sandy Brondello with Richie Adubato for the most wins in franchise history at 100. Emma Meesseman, stepping into a larger role with Breanna Stewart sidelined due to a knee injury, led the way with a season-high 24 points and nine rebounds. Jonquel Jones added a double-double with 21 points and 11 boards, while Leonie Fiebich contributed 20 points on efficient shooting. The balanced scoring effort allowed New York to maintain control late, despite Los Angeles’ interior dominance. Sparks Battle in the Paint The Sparks put up an impressive offensive showing of their own, shooting 46.8% from the field and scoring 52 points in the paint — their highest total in regulation this season. Kelsey Plum led all scorers with 26 points, adding five assists and five rebounds, and tying Nneka Ogwumike’s franchise record for most 20-point games in a single season with 19. Dearica Hamby delivered another strong performance with 21 points, eight rebounds, and four steals. Her eight boards also moved her into 26th place on the WNBA’s all-time rebounding list. Azurá Stevens chipped in 17 points, four assists, and three steals while passing Lisa Leslie for sole possession of 10th in franchise history for three-pointers made. Despite those efforts, Los Angeles couldn’t contain New York’s perimeter shooting. The Liberty connected on 14 three-pointers — the most allowed by the Sparks this season — and shot 50% from beyond the arc overall. Game Flow and Key Moments The matchup was tight through much of the night, with neither team able to build a comfortable lead until the closing minutes. Natasha Cloud’s back-to-back layups in the fourth quarter pushed New York’s advantage to 96-85, tying their largest lead of the game. Sabrina Ionescu added a timely layup shortly afterward, and Cloud struck again in the lane to extend the gap to 102-91 with just over a minute left. Los Angeles had opportunities to close the gap but was slowed by the Liberty’s defensive adjustments and zone coverage. New York’s ability to stretch the floor with multiple scoring threats made it difficult for the Sparks to mount a late comeback. Brink’s Early Exit The Sparks suffered a setback late in the first half when sophomore forward Cameron Brink exited with an ankle injury. Brink, who recently returned from a long-term knee injury, did not play in the second half. Head coach Lynne Roberts confirmed that the decision to keep her out was partly due to her ongoing minutes restriction. Without Brink’s defensive presence, Hamby and Stevens anchored the paint, combining for 38 points and 12 rebounds. However, New York capitalized on the absence by attacking inside and continuing their hot shooting from deep. Defensive Challenges for L.A. While the Sparks’ offense performed at a high level, their defense struggled to contain the Liberty’s rhythm. New York shot 55.9% from the field and controlled the pace for much of the second half. The Sparks did win the battle in second-chance points (14-7) and dominated on the fast break (15-0), but those advantages weren’t enough to offset the Liberty’s scoring efficiency. Roberts acknowledged after the game that her team’s defensive energy was not at its peak. Los Angeles had played five games in eight days, a stretch that tested their stamina and focus. Still, the Sparks have been one of the league’s hottest teams since the All-Star break, and they remain in the thick of the playoff race. Liberty’s Depth on Display The win was a testament to New York’s depth, as they overcame the absence of multiple key players, including Stewart, Isabelle Harrison, and Nyara Sabally. Alongside Meesseman, Jones, and Fiebich, Ionescu chipped in 14 points and six assists, and Cloud contributed 11 points with clutch baskets down the stretch. The Liberty’s victory kept them near the top of the Eastern Conference standings and provided a momentum boost after a loss to Minnesota in their previous outing. Looking Ahead The Sparks will aim to regroup quickly as they prepare for another important matchup in their playoff push. Maintaining their offensive efficiency while shoring up defensive lapses will be key as they enter the final stretch of the season. For the Liberty, the performance reinforced their status as a championship contender. With Stewart expected to return before the postseason and role players stepping up in her absence, New York’s versatility and balance remain among the league’s best assets. The 105-97 scoreline reflected not just the Liberty’s ability to light up the scoreboard, but also the Sparks’ resilience in a high-paced, high-stakes game — the kind of intensity both teams will need to replicate in the weeks ahead. 

A Much-Needed Win for Dallas The Dallas Wings snapped a five-game losing streak with an 81-80 road victory over the Indiana Fever on Tuesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The result offered a much-needed morale boost for Dallas, which entered the contest having lost 11 of its last 13 games. For Indiana, the loss marked a missed opportunity to sweep the four-game season series against the Wings. Despite rallying from deficits of 14 and 17 points, the Fever fell just short, dropping to 18-15 on the season. Both teams entered the matchup without key stars — Dallas was missing Arike Ogunbowale due to a knee injury, while Indiana continued to play without Caitlin Clark, sidelined for her 20th game of the year with a groin injury. Early Control for Dallas From the opening tip, Dallas controlled the pace. Maddy Siegrist, making her first start since early June, delivered an aggressive offensive performance that helped the Wings establish an early cushion. Li Yueru provided a strong scoring punch off the bench, giving Dallas versatility in its attack. Indiana showed flashes of momentum in the first half, cutting into the Wings’ lead with a 9-0 run to tie the game at 42 by halftime. However, the third quarter swung back in Dallas’ favor as their ball movement and paint presence allowed them to rebuild their advantage. The Bueckers Factor Paige Bueckers, the first overall pick in this year’s WNBA Draft, had a mixed night statistically but still made a significant impact. She finished with 16 points, eight assists, five rebounds, and two steals, demonstrating her all-around skill set. Though her shooting touch was off — hitting just six of 19 attempts — Bueckers played a pivotal role in orchestrating the Wings’ offense, especially in Ogunbowale’s absence. Her wraparound pass to Myisha Hines-Allen for a three-pointer early in the fourth quarter helped extend Dallas’ lead to 17 points. Bueckers’ performance underscored her growing influence as a rookie, showing poise in managing the game despite a challenging shooting night. Indiana’s Resilience The Fever’s defining trait this season has been their refusal to quit, and that was on display once again. Down 78-61 with under seven minutes to play, Indiana launched a furious rally, scoring 13 straight points to open a game-closing 19-3 run. Kelsey Mitchell spearheaded the comeback, finishing with 24 points and four made three-pointers. Natasha Howard recorded her eighth double-double of the season with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Aliyah Boston and Sophie Cunningham each added 14 points. The Fever had a chance to steal the win in the final seconds. After Bueckers missed a jumper with 14 seconds left, Indiana called a timeout with 1.7 seconds remaining. Mitchell’s last-second three-point attempt from the corner, however, hit the side of the backboard. Bench Production and Key Stats For Dallas, the bench was critical in securing the win. Yueru’s 20 points on efficient shooting provided a reliable scoring option in the paint. The Wings’ balanced approach allowed them to weather Indiana’s late push, even as their field goal percentage dipped in the final minutes. Indiana’s defensive adjustments in the fourth quarter forced Dallas into contested shots and turnovers, but the Fever’s late-game surge came just short of erasing the deficit completely. Lessons from the Loss While the Fever have endured adversity all season — including season-ending injuries to Aari McDonald and Sydney Colson — they have also shown measurable improvement from past years. The culture under head coach Christie Sides emphasizes resilience, accountability, and growth, and the team’s repeated comebacks highlight that mindset. Tuesday’s performance reflected both progress and areas for refinement. Defensive lapses in the third quarter and missed opportunities at the rim early in the game created a margin that was too difficult to overcome despite a spirited final push. Looking Ahead The Wings, now 9-24, will try to build on this win when they face the Los Angeles Sparks on Friday. The return of Ogunbowale will be key as they aim to finish the season on a more competitive note. For Indiana, the loss is a setback in their playoff positioning, but their fight to the final whistle reinforces the identity they’ve built. They’ll return to action Friday at home against the Washington Mystics, aiming to turn lessons from this narrow defeat into a stronger performance. In the broader context of the WNBA’s late-season playoff race, Tuesday’s game was a reminder of how quickly momentum can swing — and how even in a low-scoring quarter, one possession can decide the outcome.

Hamby’s Late Heroics Seal the Win The Los Angeles Sparks claimed a crucial 94-91 victory over the Seattle Storm on Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena, fueled by a clutch performance from Dearica Hamby in the game’s final moments. The win was another step forward in the Sparks’ late-season playoff push, as they continue to climb the Western Conference standings. Hamby delivered seven of the Sparks’ final nine points, including the decisive three-point play with just over five seconds left. Her poise under pressure capped off a back-and-forth second half where neither team led by more than eight points. Seattle had tied the game at 91 with under 13 seconds remaining, but Los Angeles executed on the next possession, finding Hamby inside for the go-ahead basket and free throw. The victory pushed the Sparks to 15-16 on the season, while the Storm dropped to 16-16 amid a five-game losing streak. Overcoming a Slow Start The Sparks stumbled early, falling behind 26-14 after the first quarter. Seattle’s aggressive offense, led by Brittney Sykes’ hot shooting, put Los Angeles on its heels. However, the home team quickly adjusted. In the second quarter, the Sparks surged back with a 32-14 advantage, swinging momentum in their favor and taking a 46-40 lead into halftime. Crisp ball movement, improved defensive rotations, and timely three-point shooting fueled the turnaround. The game’s final two quarters became a showcase of scoring runs and defensive counters, with eight ties in the second half alone. Seattle briefly took control late in the fourth, leading 87-80 with under three minutes left, but Los Angeles refused to fold. Balanced Offensive Attack Kelsey Plum led the Sparks’ scoring effort with 20 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, marking her 18th game this season with at least 20 points — tying her for the second-most in franchise history for a single season. Her improved efficiency since the return of point guard Julie Allemand has helped balance the Sparks’ offensive flow. Hamby’s 19 points came on 8-for-13 shooting, and she added seven rebounds, two blocks, and two assists. Azurá Stevens contributed 15 points and matched a season milestone for three-pointers made by a player her size, going a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc. She also led the team with eight rebounds. Rookie Cameron Brink delivered a spark off the bench, scoring a season-high 14 points in just 11 minutes while matching her season highs in rebounds and steals. The Sparks’ reserves combined for 26 points, hitting 60% from the field and 71% from long range. Seattle’s Strong Effort Falls Short The Storm showcased offensive depth, with Brittney Sykes pouring in 27 points and Dominique Malonga adding 20 off the bench. Skylar Diggins chipped in 17 points, while Nneka Ogwumike posted 15. Despite their scoring output, Seattle could not slow the Sparks’ three-point shooting. Los Angeles connected on a season-high 14 triples, many of them coming at pivotal moments to swing momentum. The loss marked another narrow defeat for the Storm, who have now dropped five consecutive games — all by four points or fewer — as they slip toward the edge of the playoff picture. Playoff Race Heating Up With the victory, the Sparks have now won nine of their last 11 games since the All-Star break, joining the Minnesota Lynx as one of the league’s hottest teams in that span. Their resurgence comes after a 6-14 start to the season and has been fueled by a stable starting lineup featuring Allemand, Hamby, Rickea Jackson, Plum, and Stevens. While Los Angeles has found offensive consistency, defense remains an area of concern. The Sparks currently allow a league-worst 87.8 points per game, but the return of Brink is expected to bolster rim protection and help limit opponents in the paint. Seattle, meanwhile, is locked in a tight battle with Los Angeles, Golden State, and Washington for the final playoff spots. With a challenging schedule ahead, including matchups against top teams like the Lynx, Liberty, and Dream, the Storm’s margin for error is slim. Looking Ahead The Sparks will have little time to celebrate their win as they prepare for another high-profile matchup during Rivalry Week, hosting the New York Liberty on Tuesday night. With their offense firing and playoff hopes within reach, they aim to build on their recent success. Seattle faces the challenge of regaining momentum quickly, knowing that their playoff fate may hinge on snapping their current losing streak. Finding late-game composure and defensive stops will be crucial if they hope to reverse their slide. Sunday’s thrilling contest underscored the intensity of the final stretch of the WNBA regular season. For the Sparks, it was a statement that they can win the close ones — a quality they’ll need if they want to turn a late-season run into a postseason berth.

A Key Road Victory in a Tight Race The Atlanta Dream continued their impressive late-season surge with a 74-66 win over the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday at PHX Arena. The victory marked Atlanta’s fifth consecutive triumph, improving their record to 20-11 and solidifying their position among the Eastern Conference’s top contenders. This matchup was the third meeting between the two teams this season, with Atlanta already holding a decisive edge from earlier games. Despite being on the road and facing a Phoenix squad eager to climb in the standings, the Dream once again found ways to impose their style of play, mixing strong defense with timely scoring. Fast Start, Midgame Challenge Atlanta wasted little time establishing control, building a 36-19 lead midway through the second quarter. Brionna Jones powered the early surge with scoring in the paint, while Naz Hillmon and Allisha Gray provided balance from multiple areas on the court. The Mercury, however, closed the first half strong, using a 15-3 run to cut the deficit to 39-34 at halftime. Phoenix’s defensive pressure and improved ball movement in the closing minutes of the half disrupted Atlanta’s rhythm. The Mercury’s rally was fueled by opportunistic shooting from the perimeter and better execution in transition, even though they still struggled to convert fast-break opportunities into consistent points. Momentum Shifts in the Second Half The third quarter opened with Phoenix seizing its first lead of the game at 48-46, sparked by a pair of baskets and defensive stops. The advantage, however, was short-lived. Atlanta responded with a quick scoring burst, reclaiming the lead with a combination of free throws, perimeter shooting, and inside finishes. By the end of the quarter, the Dream were back in control, holding a narrow advantage heading into the final period. In the fourth quarter, Allisha Gray emerged as the difference-maker. After being limited to seven points through three quarters, she scored 10 in the final stretch, knocking down critical shots to keep Phoenix at bay. Hillmon and Jones continued to dominate the boards, combining for 24 rebounds on the night. Impact of Injuries and Ejections The game took a dramatic turn late in the third quarter when Atlanta guard Jordin Canada suffered a non-contact injury while driving to the basket. She was carried to the locker room and did not return, finishing with 13 points, including two made three-pointers. Minutes later, in the fourth quarter, Rhyne Howard was ejected after a confrontation stemming from a blocking foul. The sequence forced Atlanta to finish the game without two of its primary backcourt players, putting added pressure on Gray, Hillmon, and Jones to maintain composure and production. Key Performers Atlanta’s success was built on balanced contributions. Gray led the team with 17 points, showing poise in late-game situations. Jones posted a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Hillmon matched that with 13 points and 13 rebounds. Canada’s efficient scoring before her injury gave the Dream a needed lift in the first three quarters. For Phoenix, Alyssa Thomas delivered a standout performance with 21 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. DeWanna Bonner provided scoring off the bench with 16 points. However, the Mercury’s other primary scorers, including Kahleah Copper and Satou Sabally, struggled to find their shooting touch, combining for just six made field goals on 26 attempts. Areas of Struggle for the Mercury The Mercury’s inability to convert fast-break chances proved costly. They failed to score in transition during the first half and finished the game with just seven fast-break points, compared to Atlanta’s nine. Missed opportunities in open space and lapses in defensive coverage allowed the Dream to regain control after Phoenix briefly took the lead. Shooting inefficiency also hindered Phoenix’s chances. Despite cutting down turnovers and creating good looks, they could not sustain a high enough shooting percentage to match Atlanta’s timely scoring. Looking Ahead With the win, Atlanta remains one of the hottest teams in the league, having found ways to adapt even when facing adversity. The Dream’s depth, rebounding dominance, and defensive resilience will be critical as they continue their push toward playoff positioning. Phoenix, now 19-12, missed a chance to climb higher in the Western Conference standings. With four days before their next game against the Las Vegas Aces, the Mercury will focus on recovering physically and addressing their offensive inconsistencies.  If these two teams meet again in the postseason, Sunday’s game provided a preview of what could be a physical and tightly contested series — one in which Atlanta has already proven it can handle the pressure and secure wins both at home and on the road.

Critical Win in Tight Postseason Race The Golden State Valkyries continued their late-season surge with a convincing 74-57 victory over the Connecticut Sun at Chase Center on Monday night. The win elevated Golden State to 16-15 on the season and into seventh place in the WNBA standings, an important jump in the highly competitive playoff race. With just 13 regular-season games remaining, every win carries significant weight for a team aiming to solidify its postseason position. Golden State entered the matchup with momentum, having recently secured an important win over the Los Angeles Sparks that broke a tie for the final playoff slot. Against Connecticut, they capitalized on that energy, shaking off early offensive struggles to deliver a commanding second-half performance. Balanced First Half, Then a Breakout The opening half was a grind for both teams. Neither squad found much consistency, with each shooting under 35% from the field through the first two quarters. Tiffany Hayes’ 12 first-half points helped Golden State maintain a narrow 32-26 lead at the break. The Sun stayed within striking distance thanks to Aneesah Morrow’s active presence inside, but Connecticut’s inability to connect from long range limited their scoring options. The turning point came early in the third quarter. Janelle Salaun scored on three consecutive possessions, followed by a Zandalasini three-pointer that extended Golden State’s lead to double digits for the first time. The Valkyries drained their fifth three-pointer of the quarter just minutes later, pushing the advantage to 53-36. From there, the home team never looked back. Their defense tightened, forcing low-percentage shots, and their offense flowed with better ball movement and spacing. Offensive Firepower Across the Board Golden State showcased the depth of its roster with multiple double-figure scorers. Tiffany Hayes and Cecilia Zandalasini led the way with 17 points apiece, providing both perimeter scoring and driving lanes that kept Connecticut’s defense on edge. Salaun’s 16 points were instrumental in building the lead, while Iliana Rupert contributed 10 points in a steady supporting role. Veronica Burton orchestrated the offense with precision, tallying 10 assists to go along with strong defensive play. Her ability to find open shooters and direct traffic allowed Golden State to execute efficiently in the halfcourt. Hayes’ performance was also notable beyond the box score — her scoring total moved her past WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes for 31st on the league’s all-time scoring list. Defensive Discipline Sets the Tone While the Valkyries’ three-point shooting drew attention, it was their defensive execution that ultimately sealed the win. They held Connecticut to just 5-of-25 from beyond the arc and 34% shooting overall. Golden State’s ability to contest shots without excessive fouling kept the Sun out of rhythm. The defense also translated into offense. The Valkyries converted turnovers into fast-break opportunities, scoring in transition and preventing Connecticut from setting its defense. Their rotations were sharp, closing out on shooters and protecting the paint effectively. Sun Struggle to Find Answers For Connecticut, the defeat continued a challenging season that now stands at 5-26. The Sun’s road woes persisted, with their record away from home dropping to 1-15. Aneesah Morrow led the team with a double-double of 13 points and 14 rebounds, while Olivia Nelson-Ododa added 12 points. Recent acquisition Aaliyah Edwards, in just her second game with the Sun after being traded from Washington, contributed eight points and showed potential as a frontcourt piece. However, Marina Mabrey, typically a reliable scorer, was limited to just three points on the night. The absence of veteran Tina Charles, who sat out for rest, further compounded Connecticut’s offensive struggles. Playoff Implications and Path Forward With the victory, Golden State tightened its grip on a playoff spot and now sits just behind the sixth-place Las Vegas Aces. The Valkyries’ combination of perimeter shooting, depth scoring, and disciplined defense will be critical as they navigate the remaining schedule. For the Sun, the loss represents another missed opportunity to build momentum heading into the final stretch. With the postseason picture becoming clearer, Connecticut will need to address its offensive inefficiencies and road performance if it hopes to finish the season on a stronger note. Looking Ahead The Valkyries will look to carry their momentum into upcoming games, knowing that a string of wins could propel them even higher in the standings. They face a mix of conference and non-conference opponents in the coming weeks, making each matchup an opportunity to solidify their playoff berth. The Sun, meanwhile, face the challenge of regaining their footing amid a tough schedule and roster adjustments. Integrating new players like Edwards into their system while finding consistent scoring will be key if they hope to salvage positives from the remainder of the season. With both teams at pivotal points in their campaigns, Monday night’s result could be a defining moment — a boost for Golden State’s playoff charge and a stark reminder of the work ahead for Connecticut. 

SAN FRANCISCO — In a game that saw shifts in momentum, defensive grit, and individual brilliance, the Las Vegas Aces emerged with a 78–72 victory over the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday night at Ballhalla . A’ja Wilson was the centerpiece of the win, delivering 27 points, 7 rebounds, and a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line, cementing her status as one of the most reliable clutch performers in the league. A Fast Start, Followed by Valkyries Pushback Las Vegas came out aggressive, opening on an 8–3 run that set the tone for the first quarter. Wilson and NaLyssa Smith powered the early offense, combining for 12 points in the frame. But the Valkyries weren’t going away quietly — Janelle Salaün and Temi Fágbénlé helped Golden State close the gap, scoring the final five points of the quarter to trail just 16–14. The second quarter belonged to the Valkyries early. Carrying momentum from the first, Golden State strung together a 14–0 run that spanned the quarter break, taking a 23–16 lead. The surge included points from the free-throw line and opportunistic transition plays. The Aces’ offense stalled for over five minutes until Jackie Young broke through with a midrange jumper. That shot sparked a Las Vegas rally — Young herself scoring seven points during a 13–4 response that regained the lead. From there, the Aces executed a 9–0 burst to seize control, heading into halftime with a 43–38 advantage. Wilson’s Dominance and Late-Quarter Surge The third quarter began with the Valkyries refusing to fold, matching Las Vegas bucket for bucket. At the 6:48 mark, Golden State had tied the game at 48–48, capitalizing on aggressive defense and quick passing. But Wilson once again took over, scoring all five Aces points in the early minutes of the quarter and leading a decisive 10–2 run that put Las Vegas ahead 58–50. By the end of the third, the Aces held a 64–54 lead, thanks in part to perfect free-throw shooting from both teams in the period. Wilson tallied seven points in the frame, while Salaün continued to fight for Golden State with five points of her own. Valkyries’ Late Rally Falls Short Golden State refused to fade, opening the fourth quarter on a 9–2 push to close the gap to 64–60. The Aces endured a near four-minute scoring drought before Jewell Loyd stepped up with a midrange jumper. That shot sparked enough offense to keep the Valkyries at bay, with Las Vegas relying on Wilson’s flawless free-throw shooting to seal the deal in the closing minutes. Wilson scored six points in the final frame — all from the charity stripe. Tiffany Hayes led Golden State’s effort with 14 points and 9 rebounds, while Salaün contributed 13 points. Despite their fight, the Valkyries could not overcome turnovers and missed opportunities from three-point range, finishing just 4-of-22 (.182) from deep. Statistical Breakdown The Aces shot 45% from the field (27-of-60) and struggled from beyond the arc at just 18.5% (5-of-27). The Valkyries hit 39.7% of their shots (25-of-63) but similarly faltered from long range. Both teams secured 31 rebounds, with nine offensive boards apiece. Las Vegas committed 16 turnovers but limited the damage to just seven points off those miscues. Conversely, they capitalized on Golden State’s 13 turnovers for eight points. The Aces held a slim 9–6 edge in both second-chance points and fast-break scoring, though the Valkyries outscored them in the paint, 34–32. There were four lead changes and five ties, but neither team led by more than 10 points. Milestone Night for Wilson With her two blocks in the game, A’ja Wilson became just the fourth player in WNBA history to record at least 5,000 points, 2,000 rebounds, 500 assists, 500 blocks, and 300 steals. At 28 years and 363 days old, she is the youngest to achieve the feat, surpassing Candace Parker’s previous mark. Wilson also reached the milestone faster than any player before her, doing so in just 253 games. Looking Ahead The win moved the Aces to 16–14 on the season, while the Valkyries dropped to 14–15. Las Vegas will return home for a crucial three-game stretch, starting with a matchup against the Seattle Storm. Golden State will look to regroup and keep their playoff hopes alive in their next contest.

First-Half Battle Sets Defensive Tone The Dallas Wings earned a gritty 76–72 victory over the New York Liberty in a tightly contested game that showcased elite defense and timely scoring. From the opening tip, both teams displayed physicality in the paint and aggressive perimeter pressure. The Wings were determined to bounce back after their last loss, and they showed that urgency in their effort from the start. The first quarter opened with a flurry of blocked shots and contested rebounds, with neither team able to gain a significant edge. Dallas relied heavily on its frontcourt to establish control early, as Teaira McCowan and Natasha Howard combined to limit the Liberty's second-chance opportunities. Sabrina Ionescu led the early scoring charge for New York, hitting two long-range threes to counter Dallas’s strong inside presence. By the end of the first quarter, the score was tied at 19–19. Both teams shot under 40% from the field, with defenses collapsing quickly to close off driving lanes. Wings Adjust and Take Control In the second quarter, Dallas began finding cracks in New York’s defensive scheme. Arike Ogunbowale picked up momentum with a pair of pull-up jumpers and a deep three-pointer that electrified the home crowd. Crystal Dangerfield provided a stabilizing presence at point guard, navigating through Liberty traps and facilitating timely passes to open shooters. New York, however, remained resilient. Jonquel Jones asserted herself in the post, scoring back-to-back buckets to keep the Liberty within striking distance. Breanna Stewart, though limited early by foul trouble, returned in the second quarter and helped slow down Ogunbowale’s scoring run. Despite that, the Wings entered halftime with a narrow 38–34 advantage. Their ability to out-rebound New York 22–16 in the first half gave them more possessions and set the stage for a physical second half. Third Quarter Momentum Shifts The Liberty opened the third quarter with renewed energy, quickly going on a 9–2 run to reclaim the lead. Stewart began to heat up, sinking a three from the wing and following it up with a strong drive to the basket. Ionescu continued to stretch Dallas’s defense with her range, forcing the Wings to extend their perimeter coverage. Dallas responded by tightening up defensively. Satou Sabally and Howard combined for three steals during a two-minute stretch that fueled a Dallas scoring burst. McCowan re-established her presence in the paint, grabbing key offensive rebounds and finishing through contact. Ogunbowale ended the quarter with a buzzer-beating step-back three that put the Wings up 58–55. Final Frame: Closing Strong The fourth quarter saw both teams trade baskets and defensive stops. With less than five minutes remaining, the game was tied at 67. Jones hit a hook shot in the lane, and Stewart added a pair of free throws to give New York a brief lead. But the Wings responded with a clutch 7–0 run fueled by Ogunbowale’s fearless attacking. A key possession came with just under two minutes left: after a missed jumper by Stewart, Sabally raced down the court for a transition layup, drawing a foul and converting the three-point play. New York had one final opportunity to tie the game with 11 seconds left, trailing 74–72. Ionescu’s contested three-point attempt fell short, and McCowan secured the rebound and was fouled immediately. She calmly sank both free throws to seal the win for Dallas. Statistical Highlights The Dallas Wings finished the game shooting 42% from the field, while the Liberty managed 40%. Dallas held a slight edge on the boards, out-rebounding New York 39–35, and committed just 11 turnovers to the Liberty’s 14. Their advantage in points in the paint (36–30) proved critical in a game where outside shooting was inconsistent for both squads. Arike Ogunbowale led all scorers with 25 points, including four three-pointers and several key fourth-quarter baskets. Teaira McCowan added 14 points and 11 rebounds, notching a double-double in one of her most impactful games of the season. Satou Sabally chipped in 13 points and six rebounds. For New York, Jonquel Jones tallied 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Sabrina Ionescu contributed 16 points, five assists, and three steals. Breanna Stewart finished with 12 points and seven boards, but foul trouble limited her minutes in the second and third quarters. Looking Ahead This win improves Dallas’s standing in the playoff race and gives them momentum heading into a challenging road trip. The team showed composure and execution under pressure — signs of a squad capable of making a deep run. Meanwhile, the Liberty will look to regroup and address the defensive lapses that allowed Dallas to pull away late. With postseason aspirations in clear view, every possession will matter as the season enters its final stretch.