By: Alyssa Merritt

Riding the momentum of their victory two days prior, the Dallas Wings claimed another victory, 90-77, over the Phoenix Mercury on Pride Night at College Park Center on June 9, 2023.

In this repeat showdown, Arike Ogunbowale, the Wings’ dynamic guard and All-Star hopeful, finished with a season-high 35 points on an efficient 12-21 (57.1%) shooting.

“This was her 13th 30-point game in her career,” Head Coach Latricia Trammell said. “I mean, she just sets the tone. She can hit big shots when we need them like she did. She watches a lot of film. She wants to enhance her skill set and try to create more for her teammates as well. And so yeah, I love her. I mean, she’s in a different mindset right now for sure.”

Satou Sabally also had a strong performance tonight, finishing with 17 points and 16 rebounds, of which was one shy of her career high and marks her fifth-straight double double.

“I remember when I was first hired, talking to her, she said, ‘This is my year.’ And she’s kept that same mindset. She’s a determined young lady and she’s taken the excuse away from everyone else to not to join that bandwagon. So very proud of her,” Trammel said after the game.

Despite the Mercury’s Brittney Griner’s 18-point performance, the Wings held their guard in the final quarters. They executed key defensive plays and hit crucial shots to protect their hard-earned lead and ensured another win.

The game’s initial quarters were marked by high intensity from both sides. Griner and Ogunbowale led their teams in the first half, setting the stage for a tightly-contested matchup.

. However, the Wings took control in the third quarter, with a 12-0 run led by Ogunbowale.

The second half was a battle in the paint, with the Mercury’s Griner and the Wings’ Natasha Howard going head-to-head. Despite Griner’s efforts, Howard’s defensive contributions were pivotal in maintaining the Wings’ advantage down the stretch.

“Buy in. That’s a big thing… to buy into the execution of defense,” said Trammel. “The grit, the intensity, the passion, the energy, the communication. I’ve been very proud of them.”

This rematch was indeed a special one, not just for the Dallas Wings for their hard-fought victory, but for the celebration of Pride Night, making the event a resounding success both on and off the court, as it was announced as a sell-out crowd with 6,251 fans enjoying the win. The game, the event, and the electric atmosphere all came together to send a powerful message of inclusivity, love, and acceptance.

With the echo of back-to-back victories still resonating, the Wings will look to extend their winning streak on the road. They are set to square off against the New York Liberty on Sunday, June 11 at 12:00 p.m. CT with coverage on ABC.