Paige Bueckers scored 18 of her 32 points in the first quarter, leading the Dallas Wings to a 92-70 victory over the Seattle Storm, tying the franchise’s single-season wins record.
The Dallas Wings defeated the Seattle Storm 92-70 on Sunday, August 23, at College Park Center, tying the franchise’s single-season wins record. Paige Bueckers exploded for 18 of her game-high 32 points in the first quarter, giving the Wings a commanding lead they never relinquished. The loss dropped Seattle to 7-31 and extended their losing streak to three games.
Dallas Wings: Bueckers’ Early Eruption Sets the Tone
Bueckers’ first-quarter barrage put the game out of reach early, as Dallas (22-16) improved to 9-9 in Western Conference play. Jessica Shepard added a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the paint. Arike Ogunbowale dished out a game-high 6 assists, facilitating an offense that clicked from the opening tip. The Wings’ balanced attack and defensive intensity held Seattle to just 70 points, securing their 22nd win of the season.
Seattle Storm: Johnson’s Effort Not Enough
Flau’jae Johnson led the Storm with 23 points and 6 rebounds, providing a bright spot in an otherwise difficult outing. Zia Cooke added 3 assists, but Seattle struggled to generate consistent offense without several key players. The Storm (7-31, 1-17 in conference) were shorthanded, missing Azzi Fudd, Aziaha James, Costanza Verona, and Natisha Hiedeman due to injury. Despite the loss, Johnson’s continued development offers hope for a young core looking toward the future.
Turning Point: Bueckers’ First-Quarter Outburst
The game’s decisive moment came in the opening frame, when Bueckers scored 18 of her 32 points. Her hot shooting gave Dallas an immediate double-digit lead and forced Seattle into a reactive mindset. The Storm never recovered, as the Wings maintained control throughout. Bueckers’ explosion was a stark contrast to her previous game, where she was quiet, and it showcased the offensive firepower Dallas possesses when both she and Ogunbowale are clicking.
What It Means
For Dallas, the victory ties the franchise’s single-season wins record, a significant milestone with games still to play. The Wings host the Portland Fire on Tuesday, August 26, with a chance to set a new benchmark. For Seattle, the loss further dims any playoff hopes, but the team remains focused on development. The Storm will look to snap their three-game skid when they host the Toronto Tempo on Wednesday, August 26.
Key Takeaways
- Paige Bueckers scored 32 points, including 18 in the first quarter.
- Jessica Shepard recorded a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.
- Flau’jae Johnson led Seattle with 23 points and 6 rebounds.
- Dallas tied its franchise record for wins in a single season.
- Seattle played without four key players due to injury.
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