Odyssey Sims Scores 18 in Season Debut, Wings Defeat Lynx
Odyssey Sims scores 18 points in her season debut. | © 2024 Miss Ari Photography
Arlington - The Dallas Wings ended an 11-game losing streak Thursday afternoon, defeating one of the best teams in the WNBA - the Minnesota Lynx 94-88.
For the first time in quite a while Arike Ogunbowale was able to take a rest in the first quarter. The return of Odyssey Sims is to credit for this. The veteran point guard was playing in a street ball game in Paris last weekend when she received a call that the Wings wanted her back. Her timely return made all the difference on Thursday.
Sims, the persistent Dallas team and the energy of over one thousand local youth from various camps around the metroplex sent the College Park Center into a welcomed frenzy.
Dallas (4-13) won for the first time since May 26. Minnesota (13-4) was fresh off of a 94-89 victory over the New York Liberty on Tuesday for its first Commissioner’s Cup championship. All week, Minnesota has been discussed as a team that deserves more attention as a championship contender and rightfully so. Dallas was not intimidated.
After trailing by as many as 15 points in the first half, Dallas went on a 13-0 run before entering the break only down two points. The second half opened with an energized squad for Dallas Coach Latricia Tramell - a squad that believed a win was there for the taking.
“Tough times don't last - tough people do," Trammel shares. “I'm just happy for these players. I just want it so bad for them. When I see them successful - that's all I can ask for.”
Ogunbowale led Dallas in scoring with 23 points. She also had a game-high nine assists. Teaira McCowan earned another double-double, with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Monique Billings scored 14 points and was very aggressive on the boards with six rebounds.
"We trusted each other and we just played well together today,” Dallas guard Arike Ogunbowale shared post game. “Everyone was ready and locked in when their number was called."
There is no denying the energy Sims brought to the team as a veteran guard. Every opportunity she had to dish a pass to a teammate - she took. Several times throughout Thursday’s game, she drove effortlessly to the basket - scoring at will. In her 26 minutes of play off the bench, Sims scored 18 points on 8-12 shooting; earned four assists and had three steals.
“I was a little jet lagged, practiced on Tuesday and just needed to get my legs under me,” Sims said. “I’m just happy we got the win.”
Sims has been in attendance at every Dallas home game this season, showing her unwavering support. Her stellar return to the team she helped so much a year ago was special to both the organization and fans.
Napheesa Collier scored 29 points and grabbed 11 rebounds for Minnesota. Bridget Carleton finished with 17 points and Kayla McBride had 11. The Lynx played a turnover free first half, but they finished the game with 13 turnovers.
Dallas never allowed Minnesota to go on an extensive run, however, Monique Billings’ made basket with 1:34 left in the third gave the Wings their first lead, 68-67, since it was 2-1. Minnesota came within three points with a minute remaining in the final period, but Dallas rookie Jacy Sheldon answered with a clutch 3-pointer.
Ogunbowale, Sims and Tramell were all smiles during the post game conference. While the team is excited to be back in the win column, they are well aware of the work they must continue to do.
Dallas will head to Seattle to face the Storm on Saturday and again on Monday, before returning home to face the Phoenix Mercury on July 3rd.
