Ogunbowale’s 45 Points Lift Wings Past Valkyries in OT Thriller

Series Leveled in Arlington

The Dallas Wings and Golden State Valkyries remain deadlocked at one game apiece after a dramatic overtime victory for Texas. Arike Ogunbowale poured in 45 points to lead the home team past the visitors, 108-100, on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at College Park Center in Arlington.

A Back-and-Forth Battle

The contest began with immediate offensive exchanges. Gabby Williams opened the scoring for Golden State with a 10-foot pullup jump shot assisted by Kiah Stokes. The Wings responded quickly, tying the game at 4-4 behind two early baskets from Arike Ogunbowale. Williams continued to apply pressure for the Valkyries, hitting multiple three-pointers and driving layups to take a 26-23 lead into halftime.

The second quarter saw the Valkyries extend their advantage, led by effective shooting from Kayla Thornton and Veronica Burton. However, Dallas fought back in the third quarter. Ogunbowale hit a crucial 25-foot three-pointer to shift momentum, while Jessica Shepard contributed significantly on both ends of the floor.

The Wings managed to erase deficits throughout the regulation period, tying the game at 72-72 late in the fourth before Kaila Charles and Janelle Salaun helped Golden State pull ahead again.

Overtime Decider

The game remained tight through the final minutes of regulation, forcing overtime. The extra period was defined by clutch shooting from both sides. Arike Ogunbowale continued her assault, hitting a 28-foot jump bank shot to keep Dallas in contention. Gabby Williams answered with a driving layup and later a vital 26-foot three-pointer to tie the game at 100-100.

The outcome was decided at the free-throw line in the final moments. Ogunbowale sank a 24-foot step-back three-pointer to give Dallas a brief lead, followed by key free throws from Alysha Clark and herself. Tiffany Hayes also contributed from the charity stripe for the Wings. The final score of 108-100 secured the win for Texas.

Key Performers and Records

Ogunbowale’s 45 points were the highest total of the game. Gabby Williams led Golden State with 36 points, along with seven assists and six rebounds. Jessica Shepard was instrumental for Dallas, recording eight rebounds and dishing out six assists.

The victory improved the Dallas Wings’ record to 27-17, while the Golden State Valkyries fell to 32-12. The series now shifts to the next phase with the tie at 1-1.

Sources

ESPN