The Dallas Wings have found their stride after a challenging start to the season, achieving a 5-3 record over their last eight games, a significant improvement from just one win in their previous twelve. This uptick in performance comes despite a mounting injury crisis threatening the team’s momentum as they prepare to face Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky on July 9, 2025. The Wings’ head coach, Chris Koclanes, emphasized maintaining focus with his mantra to “stick to the process,” but the team has been tested by critical absences.
Several important players are sidelined, including Maddy Siegrist and Tyasha Harris, who have been out for some time. More immediate concerns arose with Di Jonai Carrington and Arike Ogunbowale, both vital contributors throughout the season, now ruled out with injuries expected to keep them off the court for upcoming games. With four of their eleven players unavailable, the Wings risked forfeiting their game against the Chicago Sky due to league rules requiring a minimum of eight active players.
In response to this shortage, Dallas management acted swiftly, re-signing guard-forward Haley Jones on a rest-of-season contract just hours before tipoff. Jones, familiar with the team, was expected to join the pregame shoot-around and contribute immediately against the Sky. Her return comes after a prior hardship contract she signed on June 17, which ended on June 29 following the return of injured and internationally committed teammates Teaira McCowan and Luisa Geiselsöder.
Haley Jones Returns to Strengthen Guard Rotation Amid Roster Challenges
League regulations opened the opportunity for Jones to sign a rest-of-season deal starting July 9, a move the Wings delayed strategically after releasing Liatu King. Though Jones’ statistics during her previous stint with Dallas were modest—averaging 4.0 points, 4.0 rebounds per game, and an efficient 57.1 percent shooting in limited playing time—her versatility and size at the guard position provide valuable options for the Wings’ depleted lineup. She can also manage the offense if necessary, adding tactical flexibility.
With a career average of 3.7 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists across multiple WNBA teams including the Atlanta Dream, Phoenix Mercury, and Washington Mystics, Jones brings a breadth of experience. Locked in for the remainder of the season, she has an important chance to increase her impact and demonstrate her value as the Wings push through adversity.
Paige Bueckers Endures Injury Scare but Set to Lead Dallas Against Chicago Sky
One of the team’s most crucial players, Paige Bueckers, recently faced a scare during a game against the Atlanta Dream. After returning from two absences caused by a concussion and illness, Bueckers suffered a hard landing on her head during a contested layup blocked by Kalani Brown. The incident raised concerns as the Wings had already been battling extensive injuries and losing their star point guard again could have derailed their progress.
Fortunately, Bueckers was able to remain on the court despite the heavy hit, though her playing time dropped to a season-low 24 minutes. She scored 11 points on 3-of-11 shooting, with two rebounds, three assists, one block, and a three-pointer, marking her least efficient performance this season. However, Bueckers’ availability is confirmed for the upcoming game against the Sky, a relief for coach Chris Koclanes and the team’s playoff hopes.
“Yup. We talked to her here, she’s feeling okay.”
—Chris Koclanes, Dallas Wings Head Coach
There was significant anticipation surrounding Bueckers’ participation, especially as she is set to face Angel Reese once more. The Wings missed a marquee matchup against Caitlin Clark earlier this season due to Clark’s injury, and Bueckers is eager to avenge their opening loss to the Sky, which she missed following her concussion.
Resilience Defines Dallas Wings as Playoff Push Intensifies
Throughout this season, the Dallas Wings have exhibited a combination of grit and adaptability amid setbacks. Recovering from a slow start to climb into playoff range shows the team‘s capacity to overcome pressure. The sudden injury issues forced an urgent retooling of the roster, spotlighting their ability to react swiftly and strategically, exemplified by the re-signing of Haley Jones.
Paige Bueckers has emerged as the team’s on-court leader, galvanizing the Wings during this pivotal juncture. Her perseverance through injury and steady play will be critical as the team confronts one of its toughest challenges against Angel Reese’s Chicago Sky. The presence of Jones adds depth and experience precisely when the roster needs it most, increasing the Wings’ chances of sustaining this improved form.
Looking ahead, the Wings must navigate a demanding schedule while managing recovery timelines for injured stars including Carrington and Ogunbowale. The upcoming showdown with the Sky represents a defining moment in their season, offering an opportunity to maintain momentum and reinforce their playoff credentials with the full season signing of Jones and the return of Bueckers.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What caused Angel Reese’s injury?
A. “I hurt my hand when I fell backward after scoring. The fall caused a minor fracture in my bone,” Reese explained in a TikTok video on Sunday night. “The doctors said I have the option to either undergo surgery or skip it.”
Q. Does Angel Reese have a 1.6 GPA?
A. Additionally, Reese finished her studies at LSU in March 2024, earning a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. Her focus areas included Communication, Leadership, and Psychology. This accomplishment indicates that her GPA was higher than 2.0, which is the lowest grade point average needed to graduate.
Q. What was Angel Reese’s injury?
A. Before beating the Los Angeles Sparks on September 6, they lost seven consecutive games. However, Reese then fractured her left wrist, needing surgery. With their key player injured, they won their next game but lost the last five. “That obviously didn’t feel good,” she expressed.
Q. What did Angel Reese’s parents do?
A. Angel’s skill in basketball is inherited from her parents, who both played the sport in college and at the professional level.