Golden State Valkyries and Dallas Wings clash in Arlington as they chase different goals
The Golden State Valkyries (18-18) head to Arlington on Sunday afternoon hoping to snap a three-game skid and keep their grasp on a playoff berth, currently sitting in the eighth and final spot in the standings. Across the court, the Dallas Wings (9-28) are riding a four-game losing streak and playing out the string as they try to salvage pride after an elimination from postseason contention.
A big concern for Golden State heading into the matchup is Tiffany Hayes, one of the team’s top scorers at 11.7 points per game. Hayes collided with Kahleah Copper in Friday’s 81-72 loss to the Phoenix Mercury, and coach Natalie Nakase said after the game it’s a wait-and-see situation for Hayes. “This has always kind of come down to a team effort. We always need to utilize everyone. And we understand the importance of healthy bodies,” Nakase said, acknowledging that the physical nature of Friday’s game didn’t surprise her as both teams fought for a playoff spot.
Dallas, meanwhile, is dealing with a roster battered by injuries. The Wings were battered in a 95-60 loss to the Seattle Storm on Friday, with multiple players sidelined, including Arike Ogunbowale, who had been averaging 15.5 points per game before going out with a knee issue.
Amid the turmoil, Dallas has a bright spot in rookie Paige Bueckers, who continues to provide a lift with averages of 19.4 points and 5.1 assists per game. Bueckers erupted for a rookie-record 44 points in an 81-80 setback to the Los Angeles Sparks on Wednesday. She also reached a milestone few first-year players ever do, becoming only the second rookie in league history to accumulate more than 500 points, 150 assists, 100 rebounds and 50 steals in a season, joining Caitlin Clark in that exclusive club.
Despite the rough stretch, the Wings aren’t folding. “Sticking together and staying true to the process over and over again,” Wings head coach Chris Koclanes said, expressing confidence that Dallas can rebound with renewed energy against Golden State.
What to watch
– Hayes’ status to be monitored. If she plays, she’ll be a key factor in Golden State’s spread offense; if not, the Valkyries will need other scorers to step up.
– Bueckers’ continued development versus a defensively engaged opponent in a game that could have playoff implications for Golden State.
– Ogunbowale’s absence leaving room for other Wings players to step up as Dallas looks to build momentum for next season.
Context and value add
– This game shapes up as a test of resilience for the Wings and a chance for Golden State to solidify eighth place with a favorable remaining schedule.
– Paige Bueckers’ historic rookie season has been a major storyline for Dallas; ongoing performances could influence how the Wings approach the offseason and roster planning.
– The matchup also highlights the broader playoff seeding dynamics in a tightly contested Western Conference, with injuries and rest days potentially tipping outcomes.
Summary
Both teams enter with clear but different motivations: Golden State trying to stabilize its postseason chances and Dallas seeking to finish strong and showcase young talent like Bueckers. Expect a competitive, physical game with opportunities for breakout performances from role players stepping into bigger roles due to injuries.
Positive note
Despite the injuries and rough stretches, Dallas has shown grit and a willingness to rally around its young core, while Golden State’s fight to secure a playoff spot adds urgency and momentum to what should be an engaging Sunday affair.