Paige Bueckers brought attention to Arike Ogunbowale’s impressive display as the Dallas Wings secured their most significant win of the season on Monday. The Wings defeated the reigning champions, the New York Liberty, 92-82, with Ogunbowale delivering a standout double-double performance.
After the game, when WNBA reporter Rob Tiongson asked Bueckers about her own 20-point outing, she instead emphasized Ogunbowale’s contribution and resurgence during a challenging season. Bueckers stressed that Ogunbowale’s performance deserved the spotlight for its efficiency and impact on both ends of the court.
“For me, it wasn’t really about my performance,” Bueckers said. “Arike’s, it’s about what have you done for me lately? … I think everybody should be writing the story about her tonight. To have an efficient 20 points, 14 assists, one turnover, and just playing within the offense, playing within the flow, playing both sides of the ball.”
Despite a slow start this season, Ogunbowale has shown signs of improvement since the All-Star break. Known as a four-time WNBA All-Star, her scoring average this year has dropped to a career-low 16.0 points per game, making her recent performance especially encouraging for the Wings and their fans.
Context of the Dallas Wings’ Season and Player Contributions
The victory over the Liberty marked a milestone for the Dallas Wings, who improved their record to 8-19. Although they still hold the league’s second-worst standing, this win signals their determination to compete strongly through the remainder of the season. Bueckers added 20 points, alongside six rebounds, four assists, and three steals, supporting Ogunbowale’s efforts. Additionally, Luisa Geiselsöder contributed 14 points to the team’s scoring.
Ogunbowale is adjusting to a new role in the offense, where she isn’t the primary ball handler as often as before, and adapting to coaching changes has presented challenges. These factors explain some of the struggle in her production but recent games suggest she is gradually finding her rhythm within the team’s system.
Paige Bueckers’ Interest in Future Brand Deals
Beyond her on-court achievements, Paige Bueckers is also building a profile as one of the most marketable figures in the WNBA. She has expressed enthusiasm about pursuing brand partnerships that provide practical benefits, showing a strategic approach to her endorsements.
“I don’t know, I guess one in the future, I’d like to have a car dealership partnership, so I don’t have to pay for a car,” Bueckers told reporter Landon Buford. “I’d also love to have a real estate partnership so I wouldn’t have to pay for a house. In every deal, try to get the most out of it. So, you don’t have to pay for it.”
Bueckers currently holds sponsorship deals with several major brands, including Ally Financial, Bose, Chegg, Crocs, Dunkin’, Leaf Trading Cards, Gatorade, GoArmy, Nerf, Nike, and StockX, reflecting her growing influence in sports marketing.
Significance of Ogunbowale’s Performance Moving Forward
Arike Ogunbowale’s efficient and impactful game against the Liberty could mark a turning point for both her season and the Dallas Wings’ trajectory. With her revitalized confidence and emerging leadership on the court, the Wings have a stronger chance to challenge opponents as the season continues. Paige Bueckers’ recognition of Ogunbowale’s contributions underscores how critical her resurgence is to the team’s progress and potential success.