Arike Ogunbowale Sets Playoff Record as Dallas Wings Force Game 3

On September 30, 2026, at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, Arike Ogunbowale delivered a historic performance in the WNBA playoffs. She scored a record-breaking 45 points, leading the Dallas Wings to a 108-100 victory over the Golden State Valkyries in an overtime battle. This win forced a decisive Game 3 in their first-round playoff series.

Ogunbowale’s remarkable showing included a crucial 3-pointer that tied the game in the final seconds of regulation. She then continued to shine in overtime by opening with a banked 3-pointer and another key shot that put Dallas ahead 103-100 with just under two minutes remaining. This performance surpassed her previous playoff high of 24 points.

The tense moments at the end of regulation featured an off-balance corner 3-pointer by Ogunbowale that tied the score at 93-93 with only 4.1 seconds left. Golden State’s Gabby Williams was called for an offensive foul during the inbound play after a timeout. However, replay reviews reversed this call, resulting in a jump ball at center court with three seconds remaining. A scramble for the ball led to a failed desperation shot attempt by Golden State as the buzzer sounded.

The Wings will now head to San Francisco for the deciding game on Friday night. The Valkyries, who won the series opener by 24 points, aim to progress in the playoffs for the first time in the franchise’s second season.

Despite the thrilling finish, Dallas star Paige Bueckers had a challenging night. Making her postseason debut, the 2025 No. 1 overall pick and Rookie of the Year managed only 10 points on 3-of-13 shooting.

Gabby Williams recorded a career-high 36 points in the game, whether in the regular season or playoffs. Yet, she struggled in the final stages, missing all six attempts in the last 1:31 of overtime, concluding 12-of-23 from the field.

Alysha Clark matched her playoff career high with 21 points for Dallas, contributing to their critical victory.