'Everybody Responded Professionally': Arike Ogunbowale Praises Dallas Wings’ Handling of Lineup Changes

Ogunbowale also reflected on how the team has handled lineup uncertainty throughout the season, emphasizing unity over individual frustration.

“We’re still a new team. New coaches. And we still have to give grace to everybody, regardless,” she told DallasHoopsJournal.com. “We’re all competitors at the end of the day — so yes, of course we’re upset about things and this and that — but at the end of the day, we’re a team. It’s a long season, and whether it’s right or wrong, we have to be right or wrong together. I think today showed that.”

Li Yueru added a stabilizing presence inside in her second appearance with the team. She logged 13 minutes and contributed two points, two rebounds, and two assists, posting a +9 plus-minus while helping fill the void left by Teaira McCowan and Luisa Geiselsöder, who remain away due to EuroBasket.

Head coach Chris Koclanes said the decision to start James was based on continued discussions with Carrington and the coaching staff.

“Just conversations throughout with DiJonai and with our team,” Koclanes said. “We felt it was the right time to make a change and give Aziaha a look.”

He also praised the team’s collective effort and energy, saying, “It looked like us tonight. It was gritty. It was connected.”

Paige Bueckers led Dallas with 20 points, four rebounds, four steals, and two assists in 38 minutes, playing a steady, all-around game that included a clutch go-ahead jumper with just over four minutes remaining. Myisha Hines-Allen added nine points, six rebounds, two assists, and two blocks, while NaLyssa Smith posted six points and 10 rebounds in 17 minutes.

Bench guard JJ Quinerly chipped in three points in four minutes. Carrington added eight points, four rebounds, four assists, and two steals in 22 minutes off the bench.

In total, the Wings outrebounded Golden State 39–28 and grabbed 13 offensive boards. The team finished with 23 assists, 12 steals, and a season-low 11 turnovers. Dallas attempted 15 more shots than the Valkyries (74 to 59).

The win marked the Wings’ first since May 27 and their first at College Park Center this season. It also served as a critical step in reshaping the team’s momentum, with several rotation decisions still evolving.

Dallas (2–11) returns to action Friday night with a road matchup against the Connecticut Sun. Tipoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT.