Wings clinch the final WNBA playoff spot with 96-78 win over Fire

In a thrilling 96-78 victory over the Portland Fire on Tuesday night, the Dallas Wings clinched the final WNBA playoff spot. Paige Bueckers led the way with 22 points and 11 assists, while Jessica Shepard contributed 21 points, nine rebounds and six assists. This marks Dallas' first playoff appearance since 2023, as they set a franchise record for regular-season wins with five games remaining.

With Bueckers' recent 32-point performance, she has recorded 23 games with at least 20 points this season. The Wings' five starters each scored in double figures, including Bueckers' steal and assist leading to Ogunbowale's 3-pointer that extended Dallas' lead to 84-60 in the fourth quarter. Portland's efforts were in vain, as they trailed by as many as 26 points and never led throughout the game.