Dallas, TX – Two teams in very different phases of their evolution collided in a must-watch Western Conference showdown as the Dallas Wings hosted the Phoenix Mercury in a game full of intensity, storylines, and shifting momentum.

Despite both teams battling inconsistency throughout the early part of the 2025 WNBA season, this matchup delivered exactly what fans expected — a gritty battle featuring All-Star talent, rising young players, and two franchises desperately seeking rhythm.

Game Recap

The Phoenix Mercury came out firing behind a vintage performance from Diana Taurasi, who dropped 21 points while dishing out 6 assists. Supported by Kahleah Copper’s relentless energy on both ends and Brittney Griner’s dominance in the post, Phoenix jumped out to an early lead.

However, the Dallas Wings, known for their resilience and physicality, stormed back in the third quarter thanks to Arike Ogunbowale, who exploded for 14 of her game-high 27 points during that stretch. Teaira McCowan controlled the paint defensively, while Satou Sabally, returning from injury, contributed a crucial double-double to ignite the home crowd.

Final Score: Dallas Wings 84 – Phoenix Mercury 79

Key Performers

Dallas Wings

Arike Ogunbowale – 27 PTS, 5 AST

Satou Sabally – 16 PTS, 11 REB

Teaira McCowan – 12 PTS, 9 REB, 2 BLK

Phoenix Mercury

Diana Taurasi – 21 PTS, 6 AST

Kahleah Copper – 17 PTS, 7 REB

Brittney Griner – 15 PTS, 8 REB

Postgame Reactions

Dallas head coach Latricia Trammell praised her team’s second-half effort:

“We were tested, and we responded. The energy Arike brought in the third changed everything. That’s what leadership looks like.”

Phoenix head coach Nate Tibbetts was more somber in tone:

“We let this one slip. We stopped executing down the stretch, and against a team like Dallas, that’s fatal.”

What This Means

For the Dallas Wings, the win marks a crucial step toward regaining consistency after a rocky start to the season. They’re showing signs of the tough, high-scoring team fans expected — especially if Sabally remains healthy and Ogunbowale keeps delivering MVP-caliber play.

For the Phoenix Mercury, the loss is a missed opportunity. With Taurasi in the twilight of her career and Griner back in form, urgency is rising. The pieces are there — but time may not be on their side.

Looking Ahead

Dallas heads on the road next to face the Seattle Storm in what could be a playoff preview.

Phoenix returns home to host the Minnesota Lynx — a critical game that could determine early postseason positioning.

Bottom Line

This matchup was more than just a regular-season game — it was a battle for identity and momentum. And on this night, the Dallas Wings proved they’re not ready to be counted out just yet.