Aziaha James continues to make her mark in an increasingly pivotal role for the Dallas Wings — and now, she’s etched her name into the franchise record books.
In Thursday night’s 98–89 win over the Phoenix Mercury, James became just the third rookie in Wings franchise history to record a game with 25+ points, 5+ rebounds, and 5+ assists, according to the team.
The standout guard led the team early, scoring 20 points by halftime, and finished with her most complete performance yet. The effort fueled a critical home win and highlighted James’ growing confidence and command as a starter amid a stretch of key injuries to veteran guards.
“This league is fast-paced,” James said. “One of the things I’ve been working on is patience. I feel like I was patient tonight, allowed my shots to come to me, and just took the right ones.”
James finished with 28 points, six rebounds, six assists, and five made three-pointers. She’s now averaged 14.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in four starts while shooting over 45% from the field and 47% from three.
With Arike Ogunbowale and DiJonai Carrington both sidelined, James has stepped into an expanded role and answered the call. Her efficiency, composure, and shot-making have provided a steady lift for a Wings team that has won five of its last seven games after a 1-11 start.
“We faced a lot of adversity this week,” James said. “But we never gave up on ourselves. We stayed together, stayed composed, and did what we had to do tonight.”
James said she’s focused on the little things—staying aggressive but playing within the team’s structure. That includes attacking downhill and trusting the team’s frontcourt to finish or create space.
“If the defense collapsed, I knew our posts could hit the midrange or the three,” James said. “So I just kept attacking and kicked it out when needed.”
She joins elite company in Wings rookie history with the 25-5-5 performance, adding to what’s been an impressive breakout stretch for Dallas’ 2025 draft class. James, Paige Bueckers, and JJ Quinerly combined for 68 points in the win over Phoenix and have helped stabilize the Wings’ rotation in the absence of several veterans.
“This was the Aziaha James game,” Bueckers said postgame. “She set the tone for us early and never let up. Her confidence is contagious.”
James said the rookie group’s preparation in practice has made the transition to starting minutes easier.
“We always compete in practice against the vets,” James said. “And when it’s game time, we’re ready. Tonight was definitely the rookies’ night.”
The performance also left an impression on her teammates. After the game, Li Yueru praised James’ poise and energy and wasn’t shy about setting a higher target.
“She played really well,” Yueru said. “I’m really happy for her. We talked after the game and said maybe next time she can get 40.”
The Wings return to action Monday night in Phoenix for a rematch with the Mercury. Tipoff is scheduled for 9 p.m. CT.
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