The Dallas Wings faced a challenging opening to the 2025 WNBA season, starting with an 0-4 record before earning their first victory. Key figures such as Arike Ogunbowale and Paige Bueckers have been central to the team’s efforts despite growing pains as they work on their on-court connection. The focus keyword, Arike Ogunbowale Dallas Wings 2025 season chemistry, captures the evolving dynamic between the players as they find their footing.
On Tuesday, the Wings showcased a remarkable turnaround by defeating the Connecticut Sun by 22 points. This win highlighted the potential in Dallas’s young roster, with Ogunbowale and Bueckers stepping up to lead the charge. The 2025 No. 1 overall draft pick delivered her strongest performance of the season, scoring a season-high 21 points, providing seven assists, and shooting an impressive 80 percent from the floor with an 8-for-10 accuracy.
Meanwhile, Ogunbowale, a four-time All-Star, demonstrated her scoring prowess with 19 points, along with six steals and three three-pointers in a commanding effort. At 28 years old, she acknowledged the importance of asserting herself more within the team’s developing offensive framework. Ogunbowale’s three consecutive three-pointers during the third quarter were particularly instrumental in helping Dallas pull away from Connecticut to secure the win.
Just trying to be more aggressive,
she told Dallas Hoops Journal.
I don’t think I’ve been as aggressive as I’ve been. I’ve just been trying to get used to the system, trying not to overdo it, and still share the ball. But I definitely had to get back to myself — and I think I did in the second half.
—Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas Wings star
Developing Team Chemistry Amidst New Faces and Strategies
The Wings are in the process of adapting to significant changes, including an entirely new roster and coaching staff. Ogunbowale discussed the difficulties encountered during this transition, emphasizing that learning a new system while integrating so many new teammates presents a unique challenge.
It is really hard to learn a new system and play with a whole new team. It’s not like it’s a new coach with the same team — everything’s new.
—Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas Wings
Paige Bueckers, the two-time All-Star Game MVP and Ogunbowale’s backcourt partner, has actively contributed to building their collaborative rhythm. Before the victory against Connecticut, Bueckers shared how they have been studying game film together to improve their mutual understanding on the court. She expressed admiration for Ogunbowale’s growth as a leader and playmaker.
She’s a mature point guard. She’s getting us together faster, coming up with play calls faster. She’s definitely improving every game.
—Paige Bueckers, Dallas Wings
With their confidence bolstered by this breakthrough win, Ogunbowale, Bueckers, and the rest of the Wings remain dedicated to refining their teamwork. Continuous film study and collaborative practice will be key as Dallas works to turn early struggles into consistent success throughout the 2025 season.