Aziaha James

Although James came off the bench for a third consecutive game Thursday, she topped 30 minutes of playing time for just the seventh time this season, and she came within one rebound of posting her first double-double in 2025. The Wings selected the 22-year-old with the 12th overall pick in this year's draft, and she showcased some promise despite being overshadowed by fellow rookie Paige Bueckers for most of the season. James made 38 appearances (eight starts) and averaged 7.5 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 17.7 minutes per game. While Bueckers will be back with the team in 2026, Arike Ogunbowale is slated to become an unrestricted free agent, and James could have an opportunity to compete for a larger role during her second professional season if Ogunbowale signs elsewhere.

After missing two straight games due to an ankle injury, James will make her return to the floor. The rookie guard has played in 35 games during the 2025 campaign, averaging 7.4 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game, shooting 37.1 percent from the floor and 29.0 percent from beyond the arc.

James has missed the past two games for Dallas, but it sounds like she could return for Thursday's game against the Valkyries. With so many injuries in Dallas, James could see a solid workload going forward.

James will unsurprisingly sit for a second straight contest after being deemed doubtful due to an ankle injury. Her next chance to see the floor comes Thursday in Golden State. Grace Berger will likely be needed to take on additional playmaking duties Monday, while Serena Sundell and Christyn Williams are options to see extra minutes for the Wings.

James sat out Friday's matchup against the Dream with a right ankle injury and appears on track to miss a second straight contest. The guard has mostly come off the bench this season, starting eight of her 35 appearances while averaging 7.4 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 17.7 minutes per game.