Paige Bueckers has earned strong praise from her Dallas Wings teammate, Arike Ogunbowale, despite the team’s early exit from the 2026 playoffs after a disappointing first-round loss to the Golden State Valkyries. While Ogunbowale gave her all to try to carry the Wings forward, Bueckers struggled with her shooting in Game 3, going just 3-for-14. However, Ogunbowale insists that Bueckers’ postseason difficulties shouldn’t overshadow her outstanding regular season and believes she unquestionably deserves a spot on the 2026 All-WNBA First Team.
Ogunbowale emphasized that Bueckers is a “generational” talent who led the team throughout the year and insisted that leaving her off the First Team would indicate a rigged process. Over the season, Bueckers averaged 20.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, shooting efficiently with 51.2% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc. Thanks in large part to her efforts, the Wings secured the seventh seed with a 27-17 record. Whether this impressive performance earns her the All-WNBA First Team recognition remains to be seen.
Fan Take: This conversation matters because recognizing true talent, like Bueckers’, is essential for the growth of the WNBA and its credibility. Highlighting standout players inspires fans and raises the profile of the sport, ensuring the league continues to attract top athletes and passionate supporters.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
