On Sunday, the Dallas Wings will visit the Indiana Fever for their second encounter this season, aiming to challenge one of the WNBA‘s most popular teams. Despite the anticipation for a clash between Dallas guard Paige Bueckers and Fever star Caitlin Clark, Clark missed their previous game due to injury, delaying the expected marquee duel.
Both teams have struggled this year, with the Fever and Wings each fighting tough battles. Dallas currently holds a 6-15 record and seeks to disrupt Indiana’s playoff chances during their ongoing road trip, where they have yet to register a win in two games.
Dallas Focuses Defensive Attention on McDonald Over Clark This Season
Interestingly, the Wings are less concerned about Clark’s performance this season, which has been marked by inefficiency despite considerable hype around her. Dallas seems willing to allow Clark ample shooting opportunities, believing many will miss and create rebounding chances for themselves.
Understanding that capitalizing on those rebounds will be difficult, the Wings instead consider Aari McDonald the more persistent threat. Arike Ogunbowale reflected on their first matchup, noting the challenge McDonald presents on defense.
“They have great defenders, and Aari [McDonald], she’s a pest. So, just figuring out ways to get open. Yeah, so we’ve watched film on that, and I think we’ll be better for sure on Sunday.”
—Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas Wings guard
In their June meeting, McDonald effectively limited Ogunbowale’s shooting, holding her to five-of-12 attempts, although McDonald did not record steals or blocks. Meanwhile, Bueckers had one of her top performances, scoring 27 points and demonstrating her growing influence on the team.
What’s Next for the Wings and Their Chance to Upset Indiana
The Wings recognize the need to elevate their overall game if they are to succeed against the Fever. While Indiana remains vulnerable in several matchups, Dallas must execute sharply on both ends to secure a win in this crucial road contest.
As the Wings focus on limiting key defenders like McDonald rather than focusing solely on Clark’s WNBA season performance, this strategic adjustment could influence the outcome of their encounter and shape playoff hopes for both squads moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark and Swift were spotted together in a suite at Arrowhead Stadium during the Chiefs’ playoff game against the Houston Texans on Saturday. This event marked the first time they were seen attending a game together. Clark mentioned that she was invited by Swift to come along earlier in the season.
Q. Why is Taylor Swift sitting with Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift was spotted sitting beside WNBA player Caitlin Clark during the Chiefs’ home game against the Houston Texans. Clark was in Swift’s suite after sharing that the singer had invited her to join for the game.