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Dallas Wings Soar into the WNBA Preseason: A New Era Begins
The 2025 WNBA preseason wasn't just another set of games; it was a spectacle, a coming-out party for the Dallas Wings, and a homecoming for several Notre Dame legends. The preseason game against the Las Vegas Aces at Purcell Pavilion in South Bend, Indiana, wasn't just a basketball game; it was a celebration of talent, legacy, and the bright future of women's basketball.
A Star-Studded Notre Dame Reunion
The game itself was electric. The presence of coaching icons like Muffet McGraw and Niele Ivey, along with WNBA stars Arike Ogunbowale, Jackie Young, and Jewell Loyd—all Notre Dame alumnae—turned the arena into a sea of Fighting Irish green. Coach Ivey’s Instagram stories highlighting the pregame introductions only amplified the excitement.
- Arike Ogunbowale, a Dallas Wing and Notre Dame legend, returned to the court where she secured her place in basketball history with those unforgettable buzzer-beaters.
- Jackie Young, now with the Las Vegas Aces, showcased her scoring prowess, leading all scorers with 28 points and 9 assists in the Aces' 112-78 victory.
- Jewell Loyd, in her first season with the Aces after a decade with the Seattle Storm, contributed 10 points in her preseason debut.
Young's performance was particularly captivating. Her 28 points and masterful court control highlighted her evolution as a star player. The game provided a powerful reminder of Notre Dame’s rich basketball legacy and the impact of its coaching staff.
Paige Bueckers' WNBA Debut: A Promising Start
All eyes were on Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Her debut, however, served as a valuable learning experience. While the Wings suffered a significant loss, Bueckers' performance offered glimpses of her immense potential. She finished with 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist.
- A Solid Showing: Despite the loss, Bueckers' 10 points and efficient shooting (4-of-7 from the field, 2-of-3 from three) were encouraging signs.
- Facing the Best: The game provided a reality check, exposing the increased speed and physicality of the WNBA compared to college. Playing against established stars like A'ja Wilson (who scored 19 points for the Aces) was a valuable lesson.
- Humble Beginnings: Bueckers remained grounded, focusing on improvement and team growth, rather than getting caught up in pre-season expectations or comparisons to other rookie stars.
Her left-handed scoop layup over A’ja Wilson was a highlight reel moment, showing that she can already compete at the highest level despite this being her first WNBA game. The Aces' dominance underscored the steep learning curve for Bueckers and the rebuilding Wings.
Dallas Wings: A Team in Transition
The Wings finished last season with a 9-31 record, signaling a need for significant change. The preseason game revealed a team still finding its identity and working towards team cohesion. Other rookies also contributed, giving fans a glimpse of the team's potential for the future.
- Rebuilding Year: The Wings are in the midst of a major rebuild, with a new coach and a roster largely comprised of new players.
- New Talent: Rookies like JJ Quinerly (who led the Wings in scoring with 16 points) and Aziaha James showed promise.
- Finding Their Rhythm: The preseason serves as a crucial period for the Wings to develop team chemistry and refine their game plan for the regular season.
Conclusion: A Promising Future
The Dallas Wings' preseason opener, while a loss, was a significant step forward. The game showcased both established talent and exciting new players, marking a new era for the franchise. Paige Bueckers’ debut, along with the contributions of other rookies, fueled optimism for the regular season. The team’s rebuilding process, while challenging, sets the stage for future success. The future looks bright for the Dallas Wings—and they’re only just getting started.
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