In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, the Dallas Wings defeated the Las Vegas Aces 95-87 in Arlington, Texas. Key to this victory was Jessica Shepard, who achieved her second triple-double of the season.
Jessica Shepard’s Remarkable Performance
Shepard showcased her exceptional skills by scoring 22 points, alongside a career-high 20 rebounds and 10 assists. This performance follows her first triple-double earlier in the season, where she recorded 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists against the Chicago Sky on May 20.
Shepard made significant contributions throughout the game, including 11 points in the third quarter. Notably, she tied the game at 72 with a crucial shot in the lane just before the end of the quarter. She then opened the fourth quarter with another basket, marking Dallas’s first lead since they had 17-16 in the first.
Shepard secured her triple-double by assisting Awak Kuier for a 3-pointer with 2:57 left, pushing Dallas ahead to 90-81. Paige Bueckers subsequently increased the lead with her own 3-pointer, ending the night with 20 points and six assists.
Wings’ Key Contributions
- Jessica Shepard: 22 points, 20 rebounds, 10 assists
- Paige Bueckers: 20 points, 6 assists
- Awak Kuier: 12 points
- Arike Ogunbowale: Limited to 18 minutes due to illness
- Azzi Fudd: 22 points in her first WNBA start
Dallas improved its record to 5-3 after having lost five consecutive games to the Aces last season. Azzi Fudd, the No. 1 pick in the April draft, also played a pivotal role, following up her impressive 24-point performance against New York.
Aces’ Struggles
On the other hand, the Las Vegas Aces are facing challenges, falling to a 4-3 record after suffering back-to-back losses. A’ja Wilson led the Aces with 21 points, while Jackie Young contributed 15 points. Chennedy Carter made 12 of her 14 points in the first half.
The Aces struggled significantly in the second half, being outscored 50-34. NaLyssa Smith managed 12 rebounds in addition to her nine points. Las Vegas will be aiming to bounce back as they continue their three-game trip against Golden State on Sunday.
The Wings will look to build momentum as they prepare to host the Seattle Storm on Monday.
