In a thrilling matchup at Wintrust Arena on May 29, 2025, the Dallas Wings faced off against the Chicago Sky in a game that will be remembered for years to come. The Wings’ standout star, Arike Ogunbowale, delivered a performance for the ages, carving her name into the WNBA history books with a record-breaking display of skill, determination, and clutch play. This blog post dives into the historic night, the significance of Ogunbowale’s achievement, and what it means for the Dallas Wings’ 2025 season.
A Night to Remember: Ogunbowale’s Historic Performance
The Dallas Wings entered the game with high expectations, facing a Chicago Sky team bolstered by rookie sensation Angel Reese and veteran Courtney Vandersloot. But it was Arike Ogunbowale who stole the show. The Wings’ dynamic guard erupted for a career-high 40 points, including a jaw-dropping 8 three-pointers, setting a new WNBA record for the most three-pointers made in a single game by a Dallas Wings player. Her scoring outburst led the Wings to a hard-fought 97-92 victory, snapping the Sky’s early-season momentum.
Ogunbowale’s performance was more than just numbers. She showcased her full offensive arsenal—pull-up jumpers, step-back threes, and relentless drives to the basket. Her ability to take over in the fourth quarter, scoring 15 points in the final frame alone, proved why she’s one of the league’s premier closers. Fans on social media erupted, with one X post calling her “a human highlight reel who’s rewriting the record books!”
Breaking Down the Record
Ogunbowale’s 8 three-pointers surpassed the previous Dallas Wings franchise record of 7, set by Skylar Diggins-Smith in 2018. This achievement places her among WNBA elites like Diana Taurasi and Kelsey Mitchell, who have also flirted with long-range history. Her 40-point night also marked the highest-scoring game of the 2025 season thus far, cementing her status as a leading candidate for the WNBA MVP race.
What makes this feat even more impressive is the context. The Chicago Sky, anchored by Reese’s rebounding prowess and Vandersloot’s playmaking, presented a formidable challenge. Reese, fresh off setting the WNBA rookie record for consecutive double-doubles in 2024, was a force on the boards, while Vandersloot set a Sky franchise record for points in the same game. Yet, Ogunbowale’s offensive brilliance outshined them all.
The Impact on the Dallas Wings’ Season
The victory improved the Wings’ record to 2-2, signaling their potential as a playoff contender in the Western Conference. After a challenging start to the 2025 season, including injuries to key players like Natasha Howard, Ogunbowale’s historic night provided a much-needed spark. The Wings’ depth, featuring rising star Paige Bueckers and veteran Teaira McCowan, complements Ogunbowale’s scoring, making them a dangerous team when firing on all cylinders.
Head coach Chris Koclanes praised Ogunbowale’s leadership, saying, “Arike’s ability to rise to the occasion is unmatched. She’s not just making history—she’s setting the tone for our team.” With upcoming games against tough opponents like the Connecticut Sun, this win could be a turning point for Dallas.
Why This Matters for the WNBA
Ogunbowale’s record-breaking performance is a testament to the WNBA’s growing star power. As the league continues to gain viewership, thanks in part to rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, veterans like Ogunbowale remind fans of the electrifying talent that’s been driving the WNBA for years. Her historic night also highlights the Wings’ rich legacy, from their days as the Detroit Shock to their current home in Arlington, Texas.
Moreover, Ogunbowale’s achievement resonates beyond the court. As a Black woman excelling in a high-profile sport, she’s an inspiration to young athletes everywhere. Her post-game interview reflected her humility and drive: “I just wanted to help my team win. Records are cool, but it’s about the bigger picture.” Her focus on team success underscores why she’s a fan favorite and a leader for the Wings.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 WNBA season unfolds, all eyes will be on Arike Ogunbowale and the Dallas Wings. Can she continue her torrid scoring pace? Will the Wings solidify their playoff positioning? One thing is certain: Ogunbowale’s historic night against the Chicago Sky has set the stage for an exciting season. Fans can catch the Wings’ next game against the Chicago Sky on May 31, 2025, at College Park Center, where they’ll look to build on this momentum.
For the latest Dallas Wings news, scores, and highlights, visit the official WNBA website or follow the team on X. Let’s celebrate Arike Ogunbowale’s incredible achievement and rally behind the Wings as they chase greatness in 2025
Sources: Athlon Sports, ESPN, WNBA.com, MARCA, Swish Appeal, CBS Sports