The Seattle Storm and Dallas Wings both enter Monday night’s matchup looking to rebound from disappointing season-opening losses. This early-season clash at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, will serve as a litmus test for two teams undergoing significant roster transitions.
Seattle Storm (0-1)
Seattle struggled in their opener, falling 81-59 to the Phoenix Mercury. The Storm never led in the game and shot just 33.3% from the field, including a rough 3-of-17 (17.6%) performance from beyond the arc. Skylar Diggins was the lone bright spot, leading the team with 21 points, while Nneka Ogwumike contributed 12 points and 7 rebounds.
Seattle’s offense lacked rhythm, and their defensive rotations were inconsistent, allowing Phoenix to build a commanding lead. Head coach Noelle Quinn emphasized the need for better ball movement, as the team logged just nine made field goals outside of Diggins and Ogwumike. The Storm will need improved contributions from Gabby Williams, Alysha Clark, and Erica Wheeler to avoid another sluggish offensive outing.
Dallas Wings (0-1)
The Wings also suffered a tough loss, dropping their home opener 99-84 to the Minnesota Lynx. Dallas allowed Minnesota to shoot 53% from the field, including a dominant third quarter where the Lynx outscored them by 15 points.
Arike Ogunbowale led the Wings with 16 points and 4 assists, while newcomer DiJonai Carrington added 15 points. Rookie sensation Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft, had a solid debut with 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists. However, Dallas struggled defensively, particularly in rim protection, an area they hope to improve as Luisa Geiselsöder (probable) joins the rotation.
Key Matchups
- Skylar Diggins vs. Paige Bueckers – A battle between an established veteran and a rising star. Diggins’ ability to control the tempo will be crucial against Bueckers’ aggressive playmaking.
- Nneka Ogwumike vs. Myisha Hines-Allen – Ogwumike’s experience and versatility will be tested against Hines-Allen’s physical presence in the paint.
- Arike Ogunbowale vs. Seattle’s perimeter defense – Ogunbowale is a dynamic scorer, and Seattle must close out on her to prevent another three-point barrage.
Game Outlook
Seattle prefers a slower, half-court style, while Dallas thrives in transition. The Wings showed better offensive cohesion in their opener, but their defensive lapses could be exploited by Seattle’s veteran core. If the Storm can improve their shooting efficiency and ball movement, they have a strong chance to secure their first win. However, Dallas’ youthful energy and home-court advantage could tilt the game in their favor.
GAME ODDS
Seattle Storm – 1.5
Dallas Wings 161.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, May 18, 2025
