The WNBA trade deadline approaches with just days remaining before the August 7 cutoff, and one name keeps surfacing in speculation: Arike Ogunbowale.
The Dallas Wings star has been the heart of their offense for seven seasons, but with the team struggling at 8-21 and rookie sensation Paige Bueckers changing the dynamic, questions swirl about whether Dallas might consider moving their four-time All-Star.
Could Arike Ogunbowale Actually Be on the Trading Block for Dallas?
The Wings entered 2025 with championship dreams after landing the No. 1 overall pick Paige Bueckers, but Chris Koclanes’Â young roster has struggled to find consistency.
Following the trade of Dijonai Carrington to the Minnesota Lynx earlier this week, Dallas appears ready to make additional moves as it faces an uphill battle for playoff contention.
ARIKE OGUNBOWALE TONIGHT 🔥
• 37 POINTS
• 7 ASSISTS
• 5 REBOUNDS
• 6/12 3PM
• 14/25 FG— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) May 30, 2025
Ogunbowale has been the cornerstone of Dallas basketball for the past seven seasons. In 2024, she dominated the stat sheet with team-leading numbers in points (22.2), assists (5.1), and steals (2.1) while playing a league-high 38.6 minutes per game. However, the 2025 campaign has brought a significant shift in her role and production.
This season, Ogunbowale’s numbers have dipped considerably, partly due to Bueckers’ arrival and immediate impact. The 28-year-old guard is averaging just 15.7 points per game, the lowest mark of her career, while her 4.3 assists per game represent her worst output since 2022.
This decline in statistics has naturally led to speculation about her future with the franchise.
What Are WNBA Insiders Saying About Ogunbowale’s Trade Status?
Despite the swirling rumors, WNBA reporter Joey Mistretta clarified the situation through his league sources. According to his recent report, while Dallas remains active in trade discussions, Ogunbowale likely will not leave before the deadline.
A source did tell me the Wings are open to various possibilities at the trade deadline, although the focus is on rebuilding.
Arike Ogunbowale likely won’t be traded. Remains to be seen if Dallas will make any other especially notable moves. I do think the Wings believe in their…
— Joey Mistretta (@JoeyMistretta_) August 4, 2025
“A source did tell me the Wings are open to various possibilities at the trade deadline, although the focus is on rebuilding,” said Mistretta in a recent post on X. “Arike Ogunbowale likely won’t be traded. Remains to be seen if Dallas will make any other especially notable moves. I do think the Wings believe in their current core of players.”
The report suggests that Dallas views their current roster construction as viable for the future, despite this season’s disappointing results. The organization appears committed to seeing how the Ogunbowale-Bueckers partnership develops rather than breaking it up prematurely.
How Will the Ogunbowale-Bueckers Dynamic Shape Dallas’ Future?
The chemistry between Ogunbowale and Bueckers has been a central storyline throughout the season. Both guards share similar playing styles and have historically thrived with the ball in their hands. Ogunbowale has been Dallas’ primary offensive weapon for seven years, making the adjustment to a potentially secondary role a significant change.
Bueckers has already established herself as a regular starter and currently leads the team in scoring, forcing Ogunbowale to adapt her approach. This transition period has created natural growing pains as both players learn to maximize their effectiveness together on the court.
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With Dallas on the verge of playoff elimination, the organization faces a critical decision about its direction. The 2026 campaign looms as a crucial year for determining whether this core can succeed.
If head coach Koclanes believes Ogunbowale and Bueckers can develop the necessary chemistry, securing Ogunbowale’s long-term future becomes essential.
The Wings appear committed to patience rather than panic moves at the deadline. While they remain open to various possibilities, their belief in the current core suggests Ogunbowale will continue wearing a Dallas uniform as they work toward building something special for next season.
