Arike Ogunbowale became the Dallas Wings’ all-time leader in field goals made on Tuesday night, scoring 20 points to lead her team to an 87–63 victory over the Seattle Storm. The milestone came late in the game when she surpassed Deanna Nolan’s long-standing record of 1,476 field goals.
Key Moment: Record-Breaking Shot and Game Progression
With 3:39 left in the fourth quarter, Ogunbowale hit a midrange jumper for her seventh field goal of the game and the 1,477th of her career, securing the franchise record. Nolan’s previous record was set between 2001 and 2009, during the franchise’s tenure in Detroit. Ogunbowale shot efficiently, making 7 of 12 attempts from the floor, including 3 out of 6 from three-point range, while also contributing four rebounds and two assists.
Recovery From Injury and Midseason Challenges
The achievement was particularly meaningful as Ogunbowale had missed four games earlier in July due to a left thumb injury. Her shooting struggles before the All-Star break were noticeable, having converted only 3 of 22 shots in two games and scoring 11 points total. Ogunbowale credited her teammates‘ encouragement for helping her regain confidence during the game.
“I missed some easy ones in the first half, but at halftime they kept saying, ‘Next one’s in.’ That support helped me stay confident.” —Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas Wings guard
Team’s Strong Second Half Surge Seals the Win
Dallas trailed by 10 points in the second quarter but closed the half on an 8-0 run. The Wings dominated the third quarter with a 17-0 run, outscoring Seattle 53–27 in the second half, which led to the team‘s largest margin of victory this season. Ogunbowale reflected on the team’s mindset heading into the final part of the season.
“Second half of the season — whatever happened before, we learn from it, leave the bad behind, and build new habits,”
“This was a great team win.” —Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas Wings guard
Ogunbowale’s Growing Impact and Future Outlook
This record adds to Ogunbowale’s expanding list of franchise achievements, including records for points per game, three-pointers made, and free throws made. She was recognized as the All-Star Game MVP in 2021 and earned All-WNBA First Team honors in 2020. Currently, she averages 15.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game while playing 33.7 minutes on average this season.
Upcoming Challenges for Dallas Wings
The Wings will look to maintain momentum as they travel to face Golden State this Friday, concluding a two-game road trip. Ogunbowale’s leadership and continued strong play will be critical as Dallas aims to improve its record and build on this historic performance.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What nationality is Arike Ogunbowale?
A. Before she reached 24, she was already a top scorer in the WNBA. She’s still aiming for bigger goals. Arike, who grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, comes from a Nigerian-American family where sports are a big thing.
Q. What ethnicity is Arike Ogunbowale?
A. She was born in Milwaukee. Her parents are Yolanda Block Ogunbowale and Gregory Ogunbowale, who is originally from Nigeria.
Q. What is Arike Ogunbowale’s salary?
A. In 2022, Ogunbowale agreed to a three-year contract with the Wings worth $725,952, and she is guaranteed that full amount. Her yearly salary averages $241,984, and she’ll receive the same in 2025, the last year of her contract.
Q. How much does Arike Ogunbowale make?
A. Arike shared the news of her engagement to Lala Ronay on May 19, 2024.