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Fudd's First Start, Shepard's 22-20-10 Lift Wings Over Aces

Dallas's move to start rookie Azzi Fudd produced a measurable offensive boost that helped the Wings topple the defending champions.

Deadspin.com
(Photo by Mike Lawrence/NBAE via Getty Images)
May 24, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Dallas Wings guards Azzi Fudd (35) and Paige Bueckers (5) talk during a timeout in the fourth quarter against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
May 22, 2026; College Park, Georgia, USA; Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) drives with the ball against Atlanta Dream guard Indya Nivar (21) at Gateway Center Arena in College Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The Dallas Wings defeated the Las Vegas Aces 95-87 on Thursday night with Azzi Fudd starting for the first time and scoring 22 points.
  • Jessica Shepard recorded a 22-point, 20-rebound, 10-assist triple-double, making her only the second player in WNBA history to reach at least 20-20-10.
  • Coach Jose Fernandez confirmed Fudd's promotion to the starting lineup and on/off metrics cited in coverage show the Wings' offensive rating rose sharply with her on the floor.
  • Paige Bueckers, who was listed as probable with a left-leg issue before the game, played and contributed 20 points and six assists, while illness limited minutes for other Wings starters.
  • Aces coach Becky Hammon criticized the officiating after the game, and the result leaves Dallas at 5-3 with momentum while Las Vegas faces questions after back-to-back losses.