The Dallas Wings have their feet on two ships, but at the same time. On the one side, they have a future to build with rookie sensation Paige Bueckers.
But on the other hand, the Wings are in a race against time in preserving Arike Ogunbowale’s legacy.
While Awak Kuier could help Bueckers unleash her full potential, the team still needs some experienced hands at play.
Dallas Wings Heading Paige Bueckers-Arike Ogunbowale Dilemma
The Wings are in a mix as they have to make a high-stakes decision that could define their 2026 season. Ogunbowale, the franchise’s all-time scoring leader, is heading into free agency, while for Bueckers, even the Wings GM Kurt Miller is optimistic about the rebuild.
Ogunbowale’s seven-year tenure, marked by four All-Star appearances and a 2024 game MVP, contrasts with her 2025 dip. Her average fell 15.5 points per game and a 36.4% shooting rate due to injuries.
Arike Ogunbowale was the winning coach as she led Team Nigeria to the win at the Battle of Jollof basketball competition
— Athlete Vanity (@AthleteVanity) November 11, 2025
Peep Kiki Iriafen 👀😍 pic.twitter.com/UispWYAIdp
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At 29, her $249,032 salary, just below the supermax, is not a favourable condition by any means, especially with the Wings’ fourth coach in five years, Jose Fernandez, now in charge.
GM Curt Miller wants to re-engage Ogunbowale, but the decision hinges on Bueckers’ adaptability as a facilitator. Letting Ogunbowale walk could free cap space for new talent, but losing her without return feels risky during a rebuild.
The 2026 season’s success may rest on whether Dallas bets on Ogunbowale’s bounce-back or fully leans into Bueckers’ future, a choice that takes a lot of work hours for the front office.
Paige Bueckers Fully Invested In Dallas Wings Rebuild
While there’s a bit of skepticism around the roster, Bueckers, alongside Maddy Siegrist, is deeply committed to the Dallas Wings’ rebuild.
#REPORT Paige Bueckers Spotted in Spokane Training with Gonzaga Women's Basketball Team. pic.twitter.com/vef2nKbcj7
— dubseasports (@dubseasports) November 14, 2025
The duo recently participated in the Hasbro Game Zone event. Additionally, Bueckers also expressed excitement about the opportunity.
However, after a 10-34 season, Bueckers and Siegrist are all in as they prioritize a winning culture-building around a young core.