Arike Ogunbowale is a distinguished WNBA player, recognized for her outstanding scoring ability and athletic talent. Her early life was marked by success in soccer, later shifting to basketball at Divine Savior Holy Angels high school. Since being selected fifth in the 2019 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings, she has achieved multiple All-Star selections and set records for scoring. With a considerable net worth, her impact on the game is undeniable, suggesting further remarkable achievements await.
Early Life
Arike Ogunbowale displayed her athletic skill from a young age, growing up in a sports-oriented family that nurtured her talent. In her childhood, she excelled in soccer, winning four Wisconsin State Cup championships while playing for Lake Country United and FC Milwaukee.
As she progressed to high school at Divine Savior Holy Angels, Ogunbowale shifted her focus to basketball, where she left a remarkable mark by averaging 22.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. This change solidified her path toward a successful collegiate and professional basketball career.
Her family’s athletic background, with her mother being a DePaul University softball pitcher and her father playing soccer and rugby, further influenced her dedication to sports.
Family Life
Arike Ogunbowale comes from a family deeply rooted in athleticism and community values. Her mother, Yolanda Ogunbowale, displayed her athletic skill as a former softball pitcher at DePaul University, while her father, Gregory Ogunbowale, exhibited his athletic abilities through soccer and rugby, along with serving in the Nigerian Army.
The Ogunbowale family places an important emphasis on education and giving back to the community, as represented by Arike’s active participation in her high school’s Sister of Culture Club and Student-Athlete Advisory Council.
This strong family support has been essential in guiding her development as an athlete, reflecting their commitment to her path in sports.
Career
Arike Ogunbowale, selected as the No. 5 overall pick by the Dallas Wings in the 2019 WNBA Draft, has established herself as a premier player in the league. She has been recognized with multiple All-Star selections and has won the MVP award in both 2021 and 2024, emphasizing her exceptional performance.
Ogunbowale led the WNBA in scoring during the 2020 season with an impressive average of 34.0 points per game, and she consistently ranks among the league’s top scorers. Her career averages of 20.4 points, 3.9 assists, and 34.3 minutes per game reflect her noteworthy contributions on the court.
Furthermore, she has earned accolades such as being named to the All-WNBA Initial Team and shares the record for consecutive 30-point games with Maya Moore, showcasing her scoring ability and impact in the league.
Net Worth
As of October 2023, Arike Ogunbowale’s net worth is estimated at $1 million, largely attributed to her professional WNBA contract and several endorsement deals.
Although specific salary figures from her top performances in the league are not publicly disclosed, her recent contract extension with the Dallas Wings and her recognition as the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game MVP have greatly strengthened her financial standing.
Ogunbowale’s income is further enhanced by endorsement deals with multiple brands, increasing her total earnings.
Moreover, her successful collegiate career and numerous accolades have opened the door to lucrative post-college opportunities, contributing to her current net worth.