The second half of the season is ongoing, with three different mini leagues formed—one with a certain place in the playoffs, another with no chance of making it to the playoffs, and the third one trying to replace the playoff contenders. The Dallas Wings are in the second mini-league, with no chance of making it to the postseason.
The trade deadline, August 7, is approaching faster. There are speculations over the possible trades. Arike Ogunbowale is one such name who could be on the move with the expansion team, Golden State Valkyries, lurking as a potential offensive addition.
Golden State Valkyries Lands Arike Ogunbowale
The 2024 leading scorer for the Wings is having her worst career season. Playing in her seventh season with the Wings, she averages 16 points per game with nearly four assists. The 2019 rookie had better stats in her rookie season and could be on the move.
Golden State Valkyries, with a deep purse, is a viable option. In her latest article, San Francisco Chronicle writer Marisa Ingemi also hinted at a similar proposal.
“The Valkyries could fit her $249,032 cap hit for the rest of the season. The Wings (6-17) have already been active, trading NaLyssa Smith to Las Vegas. But Ogunbowale is in her seventh season with Dallas and has become the face of the franchise,” Ingemi mentioned in her report.
Its been a bit of a struggle in shooting the rock for Arike Ogunbowale so far this season — in 6 of her first 8 games this season she has shot from the field
— Tom Sawyer (@tomsawy70991387) June 4, 2025
4/15
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5/14
2/10
2/14
4/12 pic.twitter.com/mMVqO6hFOb
Moreover, the rebuilding team has a new superstar in Paige Buckers, whose marketability value outshines that of the former Notre Dame guard. Other rookies, playing at the same position, like Aziaha James and JJ Quinerly, are making solid progress. This will allow the franchise to play the youngsters more and develop them into elite stars.
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Arike Ogunbowale Could Thrive On The Expansion Side
The 2020 scoring champion’s struggles raised eyebrows. PB hinted at a productive partnership with the veteran during her draft night interview. They were the best back-court duo with a mix of experience, youth, and skills. The Dallas Wings have already signed some players looking to make moves before the trade deadline.
Joining the defensively strong Valks will allow her to be more aggressive on the offensive end. The expansion team is also looking for a ‘go-to player’. Currently, Kayla Thornton is only providing the offensive spark for the side so far.
The 28-year-old guard is still in her prime and can lift the playoff-hopeful team to the next level. The Wings will also benefit from the move. They will free up the massive bill and potentially land some top picks and a player for the upcoming WNBA draft.
Also Read: Dallas Wings Center Li Yueru Reveals Her Basketball Inspiration, And It’s Not Arike Ogunbowale