The Dallas Wings seemed poised for their third straight win when they took a commanding 31-13 lead in the second quarter against the Washington Mystics.
But what started as a dominant showing unraveled into a frustrating 91-88 overtime loss, a game that highlighted the team’s persistent issues with execution and late-game composure.
Led by Arike Ogunbowale‘s 27 points and a near triple-double from rookie standout Paige Bueckers (20 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists), the Wings had the firepower to win.
However, the team’s inability to maintain its lead and close out in the clutch raised fresh concerns about cohesion and leadership on the court.
When pressed about Dallas‘ tendency to let leads slip away, head coach Chris Koclanes gave a telling response-six seconds of silence.
Eventually, he sighed and responded, “I mean, I think we can be better in special situations down the stretch here.”
He acknowledged the team’s struggles and added, “I can be better in helping them and then again just talking to shot selection and the right actions.
“And getting the ball where it needs to go. So, always looking inward and finding ways to improve in all areas.”
Turnovers, breakdowns, and missed chances cost Dallas
The Wings outrebounded Washington 38-35 but were plagued by 19 turnovers and shot just 37.5 percent from the field. Their three-point accuracy wasn’t much better at 32 percent.
Despite having the individual talent to compete, Dallas has repeatedly failed to execute under pressure-a theme Koclanes addressed directly.
He pointed to the poor decisions in crucial moments, from wasted possessions to rushed shots. The lack of composure late in games has become a defining feature of the team’s 3-12 record.
“It’s about helping them make the right reads and making sure we’re running the right plays,” Koclanes emphasized.
Adding insult to injury, the loss came at the hands of Mystics rookie Sonia Citron, who delivered a breakout performance with 27 points and 11 rebounds.
Citron sealed the game with a deep three in overtime, breaking the 88-88 tie with just over 12 seconds remaining.
“Credit to my teammates,” Citron said. “Shakira was getting doubled and she found me. And I’ve been struggling from the three, so I was just hoping it went in. I was just happy that it went in.”
Even the Mystics‘ official account joined in on the postgame drama, posting on X, “Couldn’t think of any dub puns. Guess we’ll just wing it.”
As the Wings prepare for a rematch with Washington on June 28, the pressure is mounting. Koclanes‘ comments, subtle as they may seem, hint at deeper frustrations.
The Wings have talent. What they need now is chemistry, discipline, and a belief that they can finish what they start. Otherwise, this season could continue spiraling into missed opportunities.
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