Amy Okonkwo scored a career-high 20 points off the bench, helping the Dallas Wings defeat the Phoenix Mercury 97–76 on Friday, www.aclsports.com reports.
In a memorable finale for the Wings, Okonkwo added 4 rebounds and 4 steals in 26 minutes, shooting 8-of-13 from the field, including 4-of-8 from three-point range. She helped Dallas overcome an early 20–6 deficit before a decisive 51–27 run gave them a 57–47 halftime lead.
By the third quarter, Okonkwo had already contributed 15 points, keeping the Wings in control.
Rookie Paige Bueckers added 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in the finale, finishing her rookie season ranked third all-time for both points and assists by a WNBA rookie. Across 36 games, she racked up 692 points and 194 assists, highlighting a remarkable first year in the league. Aziaha James also contributed 20 points and 9 rebounds for Dallas.
For the Phoenix Mercury, Satou Sabally scored 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, while Kalani Brown chipped in 12 points and 5 rebounds.
The win gave Dallas their 10th victory as they finish with a 10–34 record.
Okonkwo’s strong performances during her short stint could give the Wings or another WNBA team pause, to consider signing her for next season.
