Dallas Wings vs Toyota Antelopes: A Unique Preseason Showdown
Japanese basketball player Mai Yamamoto nets points for her team in the WNBA-Japan crossover game
The Dallas Wings took on Japan's Toyota Antelopes in their final preseason game last Saturday, leading to an intriguing scenario for guard Mai Yamamoto. This Japanese native netted a three-pointer against her former team in the fourth quarter, turning heads and bringing a grin to her teammate Maddy Siegrist.
Amidst an on-air interview, Siegrist halted her answers to cheer for Yamamoto's momentous shot. Previously, Yamamoto had spent all of last season with the Antelopes, where she shone brightly with an average of 11.7 points per game [1]. Notably, she also represented her country in the 2024 Paris Olympics as a member of the Japan women's national three-on-three basketball team.
However, Yamamoto's bid to secure a spot on Dallas' formidable roster was unsuccessful after a grueling training camp battle. The Wings finalized their roster cuts on May 11, with Yamamoto and 2025 draft pick Madison Scott among the dropped players [1].
Wings' Formidable Form Ahead of the Regular Season
In their thrashing of the Antelopes on Saturday, the Wings displayed a remarkable display of prowess, securing a resounding 67-point victory. Each of Dallas' veterans and newcomers made their impact felt, hinting at a promising season ahead.
Arike Ogunbowale continued to mesmerize, contributing 17 points and converting four out of seven of her three-point attempts. However, the true highlights came from the team's new faces.
Rookie sensation Paige Bueckers stole the spotlight, registering 15 points, five rebounds, six assists, and one block in her 23 minutes on court [1]. The spectacle of her performance showcased her incredible passing abilities and her knack for driving into the paint for effortless baskets.
The Wings' starting lineup, reinforced with newcomers like Myisha Hines-Allen, NaLyssa Smith, and DiJonai Carrington, showcased their collective strengths in Saturday's triumph.
Ending the 2024 season with just nine victories, the Wings now seem ready to challenge for a playoff spot this summer.
Extras
- Paige Bueckers: With an impressive showing in her first preseason game, rookie sensation Paige Bueckers added an interesting gig with DoorDash to her burgeoning resume [4].
- Mavericks and Dallas: Following the Luka Doncic trade, the arrival of No. 1 picks Cooper Flagg and Paige Bueckers holds the potential to revitalize the struggling Mavericks and Dallas [5].
- Unforgettable Play: Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale delivered an unforgettable play, capturing the attention of basketball fans everywhere [6].
- The Wings' Dominance: Dallas' stars elevated their game in the preseason finale, suggesting the team is prepared to vie for a playoff spot in the 2025 season [7].
In the midst of an impressive WNBA preseason, rookie sensation Paige Bueckers submitted a draft application for DoorDash, further expanding her resume [4].
The Wings might've ended the 2024 season with just nine victories, but with their revitalized roster and impressive preseason performances, they seem poised to challenge for a playoff spot and break their scores in the 2025 season.
